Three Murcia restaurants shortlisted for prestigious national award

Three new establishments in the Region of Murcia have been shortlisted for prestigious culinary awards, continuing to solidify the region as one of Spain’s premier culinary destinations. The three impressive restaurants, Pepe Juan Barra, Barra Pomelo, and La Macetúa, were recognised for the 2025 TheFork Awards, a national competition that celebrates the very best of the recent additions to Spain’s vibrant gastronomy scene, and shines a spotlight on innovation in the kitchens across the country.

The three shortlisted eateries and their concepts: standout restaurants in a standout city

The first of the establishments, Pepe Juan Barra, was born in the historic centre of Murcia, on Trapería Street. The concept of the restaurant is to “recover the spirit of the bars of yesteryear and bring it to our land, taking special care of the product and the cuisine,” according to the official TheFork website. A collaboration between Juan Guillamón and Pepe Morales, two chefs from Murcia with different backgrounds but a shared understanding of gastronomy, the owners have created “a welcoming, informal place […] where enjoying the atmosphere is just as important as eating well.”

The next restaurant, Barra Pomelo, is a contemporary gastronomic bar, based on the demonstration and tasting of seasonal products, which are cooked without fire: cured, marinated, pickled, ceviche-style, tempered and seasoned. TheFork describes it as a “close and precise experience, where the product, the technique and the balance of flavour are the true protagonists.”

Finally, the third of Murcia’s shortlisted entries, La Macetúa, endeavours to “revive the authentic Murcian bar, showcase local products, and, above all, support nearby producers who offer high-quality products and are committed to their community.”

National recognition, hand-chosen by Michelin-starred chefs

The restaurants were chosen by an elite jury of 56 Michelin-starred chefs, from a total of 41 shortlisted establishments from 20 different Spanish provinces and regions. Murcia’s impressive offering showcases the draw and creativity of its culinary scene, with one of the highest numbers of nominees overall, behind only Catalonia, with nine nominees; the Valencian Community, with six; and Madrid, with five.

This year’s selection also showcased other, emerging culinary destinations, with first-time shortlisted entries from regions like Asturias and Extremadura.

The public gets a say: how to vote for the winner of the 2025 TheFork Awards

Now that the experts have made their decisions, the selection process for the 2025 TheFork Awards will now turn to the public. Foodies across Spain will be able to cast their votes on the official TheFork website until the deadline, Sunday, October 11. The establishment that receives the highest number of public votes will win the People’s Choice Award for 2025, which last year was won by The Library, a combined wine boutique, gastropub, and private club in Madrid.

For locals and visitors in southeastern Spain, the national recognition of Pepe Juan Barra, Barra Pomelo, and La Macetúa is an excellent excuse to explore Murcia’s dynamic dining culture firsthand. These three standout eateries have not only made their local owners and patrons proud by being shortlisted for such a prestigious award, but also represent a thriving regional dining scene that is increasingly capturing national attention and praise.