An impressive sculpture by Isao, son of Joan Gardy Artigas, and a tall, elegant cypress announce that we are in front of one of the most beautiful, pleasant, and surprising houses in Passatge de la Concepció. On its iconic facade, written with the typography designed by Mario Eskenazi, we see witty sayings and concepts related to the experience of gathering around a table… Phrases like "eating alone but accompanied" anticipate to the client that crossing the door of this restaurant is becoming part of a large family where good food is as important as having fun and being surrounded by art and design.
Entering El Mordisco is also entering a bright garden next to Paseo de Gràcia, the street that has always been the home of Rosa Esteva, an intuitive businesswoman and "inventor of solutions" 24/7. The unique atmosphere of this restaurant is a reflection of the presence and affection of its owner who, nonconformist, irreverent, and imaginative, meticulously cares for every gastronomic, service, decoration, and lighting idea. And this Christmas is no exception and, perhaps, will be more special than ever because it is that of '22, a magic number for Rosa.
A Christmas tree welcomes us next to the cold bar, to then walk through a first section of an interior garden traced in the mirror by Mariscal's brushes and decorated with an original mural by the artist Carla Tarruella, Rosa's daughter. Immediately we find the central bar, the nerve center of the action and from where the open kitchen and the dynamism of the space are observed, fresh, cheerful, and elegant like the "mestressa". After depositing a wish – on the condition that it be "positive and warm" – in the illuminated fireplace and giving a kiss under the mistletoe to ensure good luck, we move on to Mordisco's emblematic garden patio, which this Christmas looks like a field of holly and hosts a traditional and, at the same time, very modern nativity scene, with Esteva's own stamp.
The energy of the first Mordisco, opened in '86 on Rosselló street, which became famous for bringing together the intellectuals who moved and made Barcelona vibrate, is still alive these days in the central room with a glass roof and works by artists such as Tàpies, Robert Llimós or Carla Tarruella. In fact, on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, a large shared table will be prepared for interesting people who want to book a different, fun, and "affectionate" gastronomic experience this holiday season, also enlivened by Christmas carols from an opera choir. A great idea for single people, couples, or small families who don't know how to cook and want to spend a different holiday in a unique space.
On the other hand, all those who wish to reserve their private space for small groups of up to 25 people can opt for one of the set menus prepared, especially, for the private spaces on the upper floor. After ascending a majestic staircase, we find, to the left and right, a lounge full of art and design treasures and a cozy cocktail bar.
At the tables, dressed with tablecloths for the occasion, guests will taste bites of Rosa Esteva's favorite caviar – a new discovery of exquisite, long, and intense flavor – crab salad and traditional dishes such as cannelloni, galets soup, and stuffed turkey, accompanied by good wines.
And, all of this, always with the unmistakable touch of Rosa and her loyal kitchen team, led by Rubén Plaza and Samuel Iglesias, who together have more than 45 years working in the Mordisco family. And it is that Rosa, a genius and figure of mischievous intelligence, is not only a leading businesswoman in the city, appreciated by the entire restaurant sector – including great chefs, producers, and winemakers – but she is also a "boss" loved by her entire team and the best hostess for a loyal clientele that brings together different generations. Welcome to Rosa's home!
Passatge de la Concepció, 10 08008 Barcelona 934 87 96 56