Iconic Mesón del Roser Restaurant in Reus Closes After 46 Years

Chef Joan Musté retires at 73, marking the end of a legendary era for traditional Catalan breakfasts.

Generic image of a traditional Catalan 'fork breakfast' in a rustic restaurant.
IA

Generic image of a traditional Catalan 'fork breakfast' in a rustic restaurant.

The city of Reus is bidding farewell to Mesón del Roser, a landmark of traditional Catalan cuisine, as owner and chef Joan Musté announces his retirement this February.

Since 1979, the restaurant located near the Sang church has been a cornerstone for 'esmorzars de forquilla' (traditional fork breakfasts). Musté, who took over the business at age 24, built a reputation on homemade dishes like cap i pota and his famous fried squid, serving generations of local residents and visitors alike.

"I cook as if the plate were for myself. Good breakfasts are made with love."

Joan Musté · Chef
Despite his desire to find a successor, necessary building renovations discouraged potential buyers. The premises will now be rented for a different commercial activity, ending nearly five decades of culinary history in the Baix Camp region.