The food and drink scene in Bulli, New South Wales, Australia, is heavily influenced by the legacy of El Bulli, a renowned restaurant in Spain known for its innovative and groundbreaking culinary techniques. While El Bulli closed its doors to diners in 2011, its impact continues to reverberate through the global food scene, particularly in fusion restaurants and gastrobars that have adopted elements of elBulli's approach. Some notable aspects of El Bulli's culinary style include deconstruction, where traditional dishes are transformed into new creations with different structures and textures; molecular gastronomy, which involves the use of scientific principles to create unique dishes; and the introduction of savoury ice creams made with ingredients such as cheese instead of traditional sweet flavors. El Bulli was also known for its innovative use of equipment and techniques borrowed from industries outside of cooking, which expanded the culinary language available to chefs.
In addition to these innovations, elBulli pioneered the concept of rock star chefs, elevating the status of cooks to international celebrities. The restaurant's influence extended beyond its own walls, inspiring other restaurants around the world to adopt similar approaches to food preparation and presentation. Although El Bulli is now closed as a restaurant, its legacy lives on in the form of elBulli 1846, a cultural center located in its original space in Roses, Spain. Here, visitors can learn about the history and impact of the restaurant, experience interactive exhibits related to its famous dishes, and gain insights into the creative process behind its groundbreaking cuisine. The center also features a museum dedicated to preserving the memory of elBulli and its contributions to modern gastronomy.