Restaurant Empòrium

Restaurant Empòrium comes from a lineage that dates back four generations and is today led by twin brothers Màrius and Joan Jordà.

I have always loved the anecdote they share about how they divide responsibilities between the dining room and the kitchen, constantly swapping roles: one week one is in the kitchen, the next week in the dining room. Because they are twins, it always feels as if the same person is looking after you.

Hotel Restaurant Empòrium has been a benchmark for hospitality and fine gastronomy in the Empordà since 1965. One could describe it as a refined, gastronomic roadside hotel – an establishment well worth stopping for, where comfort and cuisine go hand in hand.

The cuisine is highly refined, delicate, and deeply rooted in exceptional produce, with subtle classical touches. Its quality was recognised in 2015 with a Michelin star, which the restaurant has proudly maintained ever since. It is also one of those Michelin-starred restaurants that offers remarkable value for money, delivering far more than what you pay. In addition, Empòrium holds a Green Star, as sustainability and respect for the surrounding environment are part of its daily vocabulary.

I am particularly fond of the wine list. Alongside a strong representation of local wines from the Empordà, it includes great European classics, especially from Germany and Italy, and – crucially – covers a wide range of price points.

For me, the best choice is the variable tasting menu with wine pairing, which truly expresses the restaurant’s philosophy. A classic example would be turbot with parsley root, paired with a white Carinyena from Vinyes d’Olivardots, or kid goat matched with a red wine from Mas Llunes.

And yes, the list includes around 500 wine references, but do not hesitate to ask about the off-list bottles – there are many, and it is often possible to find remarkable older vintages.