Mataró boasts a culinary offering with five establishments ranging from traditional cuisine to innovative proposals. Arrel, Allium, La Morera, La Marineta, and Dos Cuiners are the chosen ones.
The city of Mataró is consolidating itself as a gastronomic reference in Maresme with an offering that combines tradition, innovation, and local produce. Five restaurants have managed to capture the attention of critics and diners, each with its own personality and unique proposal. From the legacy of Albert Adrià to grandmother's recipes, these venues demonstrate that Mataró's cuisine is more alive than ever.
Arrel: a return to origins with Rob Lechuga and Esther Gómez
Rob Lechuga and Esther Gómez have opened their first restaurant after years working under Albert Adrià. At Arrel, the cuisine dives into tradition with dishes that reinterpret classic recipes. The venue, located in the centre of Mataró, bets on local products and artisanal techniques. Its tasting menu changes with the seasons, always offering a surprise to diners.
According to the owners, the goal is to "recover the flavours of yesteryear with a contemporary twist." The reception has been excellent, with reservations filling up weeks in advance. For the local residents, Arrel represents an opportunity to enjoy high-quality cuisine without leaving the city.
Allium: music, good atmosphere, and Luga Marongiu's cuisine
At Allium, chef Luga Marongiu and his team share tasks: playing records, serving, and cooking. This restaurant, located in the Eixample neighbourhood, has created a unique atmosphere where gastronomy and music blend. Its menu, featuring dishes like homemade bravas or tuna tartare, has won over the locals.
"We want people to feel at home, but with a special touch," explains Marongiu. Allium offers weekly menus that change every Monday, ideal for those looking to try something new without breaking the bank. The venue has become a meeting point for lovers of good food and live music.
La Morera: seafood, great bottles, and mother’s casseroles
At 507 Maresme Avenue, the Quintana brothers run La Morera, an unexpected restaurant by the roadside. Specialising in seafood and large bottles, the venue also offers casseroles made with the recipe from the owners' mother. The terrace, overlooking the Sant Simó stream, is perfect for summer afternoons.
"Our cuisine is the same as always, the one we've eaten at home," the brothers affirm. La Morera has won over the locals with its friendly service and fresh produce. For Mataró readers, it is the ideal place for a family meal or a special dinner with friends.
La Marineta: Pere Patuel's tribute to his mother and grandmother
A decade ago, Pere Patuel opened La Marineta as a tribute to his mother and grandmother, both named Marina. From his small venue in the centre of Mataró, Patuel gives popular dishes a refined and worldly twist. Dishes like soupy rice or cod a la llauna are some of his classics.
"My grandmothers taught me that cooking is love," recalls Patuel. La Marineta offers a very popular lunchtime menu among local workers, with reasonable prices and excellent quality. For residents, it is a place where tradition meets creativity.
Dos Cuiners: Òscar Pérez and Mar Arnalot at the helm of the kitchen
Òscar Pérez and Mar Arnalot have been at the helm of Dos Cuiners, a restaurant in the centre of Mataró, for some time. They offer two weekly menus: the so-called Pica-pica and the Migdia, as well as a menu with excellent dishes like house-style bravas. The proposal is simple but well-crafted, with seasonal products.
"We want people to eat well without complications," the chefs assure. Dos Cuiners has become a reference for locals looking for a quick yet quality meal. Its informal atmosphere and friendly service make it perfect for a gastronomic getaway in Mataró.
In short, Mataró's gastronomic offering demonstrates that the Maresme city has much to offer. From Arrel to Dos Cuiners, passing through Allium, La Morera, and La Marineta, locals and visitors can enjoy varied and quality cuisine without needing to travel to Barcelona. The next time you stroll along Maresme Avenue or the centre, you know where to stop for a meal.
You may also like
