Barcelona Honors Rosa Esteva

Why this is here: Rosa Esteva’s Mordisco restaurant opened in 1986, becoming the first of what would eventually be 26 restaurants in the Tragaluz Group.

Barcelona’s mayor, Jaume Collboni, and city officials honored Rosa Esteva at a crowded event in Saló de Cent. Esteva founded Mordisco restaurant in 1986, which became the first of 26 restaurants within the Tragaluz Group. She envisioned spaces where people could connect, even dining alone—a rarity in Barcelona’s restaurants at the time.

Esteva’s restaurants anticipated trends and offered a welcoming atmosphere. The Omm hotel later became a signature establishment, blending luxury with a home-like feel. Collaborators praised Esteva’s drive and refusal to limit herself to traditional roles.

Friends and colleagues spoke at the event, describing Esteva as demanding, visionary, and cosmopolitan. Though Esteva did not speak due to a sore throat, her granddaughter read a message emphasizing the importance of community. The full impact of Esteva’s contributions remains visible in Barcelona’s dining scene.