Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez may have access to some of the world’s finest restaurants, but according to José Andrés, they also enjoy getting into the kitchen themselves. And the Amazon founder has a culinary talent that earned praise from the celebrated Spanish chef.
Speaking with HOLA at The 2026 Airbnb.org Gala in Los Angeles on October 28, Andrés offered a glimpse into the couple’s cooking habits, revealing that Jeff has more to contribute at mealtime than an appetite.
© Katie FloresWhen asked about food and his friendship with the couple, the chef initially kept things playful, teasing that he could not reveal everything he knew. He did, however, share one detail. Jeff makes a good paella!
Jeff Bezos earns a chef’s approval
Andrés also brought Lauren into the conversation, explaining that she cooks and enjoys spending time in the kitchen. But his praise for Jeff was particularly enthusiastic.
© Leigh Vogel“When Jeff starts cooking, you would be very surprised to know that he is an excellent cook,” Andrés said. Asked about the dish Jeff prepares well, he named paella.
The exchange offered a lighthearted look at a side of the businessman that rarely takes center stage. Rather than revealing a favorite restaurant order or an elaborate dining experience, Andrés focused on something more personal, the food the couple makes themselves.
© Kevin Mazur/MG26His comments suggest that cooking is an interest they both share, with Jeff’s take on the Spanish rice dish earning a memorable endorsement.
The two countries that stand out to José Andrés for food
Asked which country has the best food, Andrés gave a personal answer, highlighting Spain and the United States. He credited his birthplace, Spain, with giving him his culinary foundations, while reflecting on the country that later became his home.
© Katie FloresRather than declaring one winner, the chef singled out both as fascinating places for food, connecting his answer to the two countries that have shaped his life and career.
A conversation about food at an evening of giving
Andrés spoke with HOLA on the red carpet at the nonprofit’s inaugural gala at Milk Studios. He also curated the evening’s menu, bringing his culinary expertise to an event supporting Airbnb.org’s work providing free, temporary housing to people in times of crisis.
Amid the evening’s conversations about generosity and helping others, the chef’s remarks about Jeff and Lauren offered a lighter moment, along with an unexpected answer to who might be cooking dinner.
