La Loba: A Bold New Chapter in Seattle’s Culinary Story

Guided by heritage and shaped by nature, La Loba brings the bold, soulful flavors of Spain into conversation with the abundant ingredients of the Pacific Northwest. Nestled within 1 Hotel Seattle, this dining experience honors the integrity of both landscapes, weaving together fresh seafood, foraged elements, and thoughtfully sourced produce. More than a reinterpretation of Spanish cuisine, La Loba tells a story—one of heritage, innovation, and an instinctual connection to the ingredients that define each dish. Every plate is crafted with purpose, inviting diners to experience something both familiar and unexpected.

Opening in Spring 2025, La Loba will bring a bold new perspective to South Lake Union’s culinary scene. Inspired by the sun-drenched shores of Spain and guided by the rhythms of the Pacific Northwest, its menu is a celebration of contrasts—smoky and bright, rugged and refined, rooted yet ever evolving. Crafted with reverence for tradition and a spirit of exploration, La Loba is a place where flavors, stories, and landscapes converge. 

We sat down with Chef Oscar Amador Edo to explore the inspiration, flavors, and vision that will define this highly anticipated addition to Seattle’s dining scene.

A Conversation with Chef Oscar Amador Edo on La Loba’s Culinary Craft
 

La Loba is a celebration of Spanish flavors woven into the bounty of the Pacific Northwest. What was your vision when creating this menu, and how did you balance these two distinct culinary influences?

My vision for La Loba was to bring the soul of Spanish cuisine to the Pacific Northwest in a way that feels both authentic and uniquely local. Spanish cooking is about honoring the integrity of ingredients, and the Pacific Northwest provides an incredible bounty—from pristine seafood to foraged mushrooms and world-class produce. Rather than simply transplanting Spanish dishes, we wanted to intertwine these influences together, using traditional techniques that highlight the ingredients’ natural flavors. For example, we might use Alaskan pink scallops in a dish inspired by the flavors of Galician seafood or highlight local vegetables in a way that echoes the simplicity and depth of Spanish cuisine. It’s about creating a dialogue between these two culinary landscapes—respecting tradition while embracing innovation. The result is a menu that feels distinctly Spanish but deeply connected to the Pacific Northwest.

Can you share the story behind the name “La Loba” and how it reflects the restaurant’s identity?

The name La Loba—‘The She-Wolf’—is deeply personal to me. It’s a tribute to the strong women who shaped my life and first ignited my passion for cooking—my mother, my aunties, and the incredible female mentors who guided me in the culinary world. Their influence is woven into everything I do. La Loba also connects me to the mountains of Teruel, where I spent much of my time growing up. That rugged, untamed landscape left a lasting impression on me, much like the bold and soulful flavors of Spanish cuisine. In Spanish culture, the wolf symbolizes instinct and resilience—qualities I bring to my cooking, where tradition and creativity roam free. Much like those mountains shaped me, La Loba embraces the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest, merging it with the bold flavors of Spain to create something truly unique.

Your menu is a reflection of both Spanish heritage and the Pacific Northwest’s rich ingredients. How do you strike a balance between these two influences in your cooking?

For me, balance comes naturally because Spanish cuisine is rooted in the philosophy of respecting ingredients and letting them shine, which aligns perfectly with the incredible bounty of the Pacific Northwest. Rather than simply adapting Spanish dishes, I focus on bringing  the two influences together in a way that feels both authentic and deeply connected to the region. At La Loba, we’re not just bringing Spanish cuisine to Seattle; we’re celebrating the way these two worlds can coexist, evolve, and inspire something entirely new.

Beyond the food and drinks, what kind of atmosphere and experience do you want guests to have at La Loba?

At La Loba, we want guests to feel transported—to experience a sense of adventure, warmth, and energy that blends the best of Spain with the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The atmosphere is vibrant yet inviting, with an air of mystery and excitement, much like the name itself. The design reflects this balance—earthy, natural elements like wood and stone connect to the Pacific Northwest, while touches of elegance and a playful, modern edge evoke the spirit of Barcelona’s dining culture. The music, inspired by Balearic beats, sets the tone—soulful, rhythmic, and dynamic, creating an energy that evolves throughout the night. Beyond the ambiance, we want dining at La Loba to be an interactive experience. From tableside presentations to beautifully plated dishes that invite conversation, everything is designed to engage the senses. Our wine and cocktail program follows the same philosophy, offering thoughtful pairings and innovative creations that feel effortless yet unexpected. La Loba isn’t just a place to dine—it’s an experience that awakens the senses, invites curiosity, and celebrates the instinctual pleasure of great food, drink, and connection.

As you welcome guests into La Loba, what’s one dish or drink you’d say is a must-try for a first-time visitor?

For a first-time visitor to La Loba, I’d recommend starting with the Salmon Candy Smoked Montadito—it’s a perfect reflection of our philosophy, blending Spanish tradition with the incredible bounty of the Pacific Northwest. Inspired by the classic pintxo culture of Spain, this dish takes beautifully smoked local salmon and layers it with flavors that highlight both the richness of the fish and the depth of Spanish technique. It captures the essence of La Loba—rooted in tradition but brought to life with the pristine ingredients of the Pacific Northwest. On the drink side, I’d suggest one of our signature gin & tonics—crafted with precision and modern techniques, it embodies Spain’s love for this refreshing cocktail while incorporating botanicals that nod to the region’s natural surroundings. It’s the perfect way to begin your journey with us.