The municipality of El Port de la Selva, in Alt Empordà, faces the summer season with a revitalized gastronomic offer. After months of negotiations and procedures, all bars and restaurants affected by last August's tragedy, when a local entrepreneur couple who managed about ten establishments passed away, have reopened their doors.
The establishments, which were facing economic problems and abruptly closed, leaving around a hundred workers unemployed, represented 20% of the town's hospitality offerings. Now, under the management of new operators and accredited restaurateurs, the venues feature renewed concepts and proposals, bringing uniqueness and quality.
Most of these businesses reopened for Easter Week to consolidate for the summer. One of the latest to reopen is El Cafè de la Marina, an emblematic venue that lends its name to a novel by Josep Maria de Sagarra. The new manager, Santiago Ferreiro, has incorporated influences from Argentine cuisine into the space's Mediterranean essence, receiving a very positive reception.
A few meters away, L’Espina, located in the former Ca la Maria premises, has reopened with a minimalist and modern aesthetic. Its owners, Cristina Perelló and her daughter Anna Paltré, also responsible for L’Askata, offer a more informal and affordable option, with breakfasts, brunches, tapas, and dishes made with fresh produce, avoiding frozen ingredients.
Another recovered establishment is Can Rubies, a historic venue that now combines breakfasts, lunch service, and a specialized offer of quality burgers for the evening. The owner, Sandra Costart, highlights the aim to fill a gap in the municipality with burgers made from local produce and seafood.
Other new additions include the beach bar at Pas beach, offering tapas and music, and the transformation of the former Bàmbola into Blaus, specializing in tapas. Ca l’Herminda maintains its traditional menu of rice dishes and fish.
The Town Council of El Port de la Selva views the current situation positively, celebrating that many of the new managers are local professionals who have significantly improved the quality of both service and product.
