Omar won the Weber BBQ Challenge at this year’s Taste of London Festival, outperforming many of the city’s top barbecue chefs from The Savoy Grill, Maze Grill by Gordon Ramsay, Barbecoa by Jamie Oliver, Gaucho and Spice Market. Competitors had just two hours to prepare a standout dish using either a whole chicken, a rack of lamb or a loin of pork. Omar’s winning entry was a family recipe: a whole roast chicken with artichokes and garlic peppers, inspired by his mother’s cooking.
OMAR’S BOOK
Omar is thrilled to announce the publication of his first book, Tapas Revolution, released on August 15th by Ebury Press. The book brings his deep passion for Spanish cuisine into home kitchens, focusing on accessible tapas and straightforward, flavourful dishes.
True to the Tapas Revolution ethos, the book prioritises simplicity and practicality. Recipes use uncomplicated ingredients and clear, easy-to-follow instructions so cooks of all levels can recreate authentic Spanish flavours. The book contains 120 recipes complemented by vivid, appetising photography.
Reflecting Omar’s warmth, enthusiasm and dedication to Spanish food, the collection presents both classic dishes and contemporary interpretations, designed to be cooked and enjoyed at home. The recipes cover a wide range of tapas and small plates, offering options for weeknight meals, dinner parties and relaxed gatherings.
Omar will appear at Toppings Bookstore in Bath on 12 September to discuss the book and his culinary journey. Tickets are £8 (£7 if collected on the day) and serve as a deposit toward a copy of the book for attendees who wish to purchase one. During the event, Omar will talk about Tapas Revolution and his career highlights, from training under Ferran Adrià of El Bulli to opening two Tapas Revolution restaurants in 2010 and 2011.
The book aims to inspire cooks to experiment with Spanish ingredients and techniques while keeping preparation manageable and enjoyable. Whether you’re new to tapas or already a fan of Spanish food, Tapas Revolution offers recipes that celebrate bold flavours, convivial dining and the joy of sharing good food with family and friends.