Born in Algeria and raised in Switzerland, Mohamed Benabdallah experienced a pivotal turning point in his life at the age of 11 when his family relocated to Europe. This move laid the foundations for his future in the world of gastronomy. With an open mind and a passion for self-improvement, Benabdallah began his journey into wine and hospitality. He honed his craft under the mentorship of Jose Antonio Navarretes at Quique Dacosta Restaurante, where he worked alongside one of Spain’s most renowned chefs. His career continued to flourish at Mugaritz, the avant-garde restaurant of Andoni Luis Aduriz, where he served for six years—first as Head Sommelier, then as Maitre’D. At the end of 2017, he joined Asador Etxebarri, led by Victor Arguinzoniz, seeking new challenges and opportunities to evolve in a different gastronomic setting.

Today, Mohamed Benabdallah is the Head Sommelier and Restaurant Manager at Asador Etxebarri, recognized globally as one of the world’s finest restaurants. Internationally acclaimed for his deep knowledge of wine, he curates exceptional wine collections that elevate the dining experience and perfectly align with the menu. Fluent in multiple languages and known for his professionalism, Mohamed has earned prestigious accolades including the Basque Culinary Centre Premios Host Award 2023, the Grand Prix de l’Art de la Salle 2024, and the title of ‘The World’s Best Sommelier Award 2025’ by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. His commitment to innovation, genuine service, and excellence in wine pairing has made him a standout figure in the global hospitality scene.