Elisabeth, a Madrid native in charge of the family legacy. Horcher, a German restaurant that arrived in the city in the postwar period, a century ago. It is a surname that is part of the gastronomic and social history of Madrid.
We talked to Elisabeth...
Could you tell us what you like most about leading such an emblematic place?
"I would say the luckiest thing is meeting so many people, being part of and sometimes even complicit in their stories... you become a bit of a confidant."
What is Horcher's secret to maintain its elegance and classic style in an increasingly modern society?
"Modernity coexists perfectly with tradition and I think Horcher has managed to transmit this, achieving a solid generational relay."
What is the greatest anecdote you remember hearing that has happened in the restaurant's halls?
"Many, very many, but what happens in Horcher stays in Horcher."
What did it mean for you to be the head of the fourth generation in charge of Horcher Madrid?
"It meant pride above all and a lot of responsibility. Pride because it is a family legacy full of effort and tradition that I have the privilege of continuing. On the other hand, the responsibility implies living up to the previous generations, but accompanied everything is better and I had the immense luck to find myself with a great team that does not understand individualism.
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What would be a perfect menu for you? Within your German cuisine.
"I couldn't decide, but in hunting season, partridge or roe deer? Nor can I leave out the sole and shrimp ragout or any classic like the Hungarian-style Goulash. The menu is extensive and there is something for all tastes. The seasons mark a lot of what we can offer and respecting the seasonality is important in Horcher. What you do have to do is finish any lunch or dinner with Baumkuchen."
Horcher and Cayumas are two companies faithful to tradition. What similarities do you see between them?
"I think we share many values such as respect for tradition, working for what is well done, closeness to the customer...;The DNA of a brand is always inevitably linked to who is behind it, and I think both companies have the same level of commitment to their customer and their team."
What importance do you give to shoes in your day-to-day life?
"Shoes are an essential part for me, and one of the things that I enjoy most when it comes to dressing. Entering Cayumas is like going shopping at a candy store, I would take them all!!!! And the best thing is that apart from the designs that are ideal, they can't be more comfortable.
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What would your perfect Cayumas be like?
"I can't choose just a few.... I like both strong colors like fuchsia with burgundy trim, as well as the classic black or navy blue. I love the Pagliacci, Salomé and Boheme models in velvet."
