MANU FRANCO

Manu is the soul and heart of his restaurant — a dream come true shared with his wife, Carolina. Born and raised in Valdemorillo, his life was always intertwined with the kitchens of the old Casa Manolo, the place his parents built with dedication and love.

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Throughout his career as a journalist, Manu travelled the world, working for major media outlets such as Diario AS, Cadena SER, and international television networks. Yet deep down, he always carried with him his father’s words: “You will always have your home here.”

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In 2019, he decided to listen to that voice and take a radical turn in his life. Leaving behind his career in the media, he trained at Le Cordon Bleu and, with the support of a team of experts from some of Spain’s finest restaurants, opened the doors of La Casa de Manolo Franco in June 2019.

It was not only a tribute to his father but also a promise to himself: to offer a cuisine that nourishes not only the body, but also the soul.

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Every dish that leaves his kitchen carries a piece of the sierra, a touch of history, and an emotion that transcends time. Those who visit La Casa de Manolo Franco don’t just enjoy a meal — they embark on an experience that transports them to other moments, filled with memories and the comforting feeling of home.

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After five years of hard work, Manu has turned his restaurant into a benchmark — not only for the quality of its cuisine, but also for the warmth and closeness with which he welcomes every guest.

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His dream lives on: to make Valdemorillo known for its gastronomy, and to ensure that everyone who crosses the threshold of his restaurant feels at home, living unforgettable moments of joy and warmth.

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In 2023, his restaurant was awarded one Sol by the Repsol Guide, and in 2024 it received a Michelin star in the prestigious Michelin Guide.