Nestled amid olive groves and orange trees in the heart of the Marina Alta, Casa Pepa is a refined yet welcoming restaurant with deep roots in Valencian culinary tradition. Since joining the BonAmb Group in July 2019, this historic finca has undergone an inspired transformation that marries regional authenticity with contemporary creativity.
A Legacy of Tradition and Evolution
Founded in 1986 by Pepa Romans, Casa Pepa quickly became a reference point in Marina Alta cuisine. In 2000, Pepa made history as the first female chef to earn a Michelin star in the Valencian Community. Today, the restaurant continues her legacy with a focus on seasonal market ingredients, light Mediterranean flavors, and an environment that reflects the region’s rich heritage.
Under the leadership of the BonAmb Group, Casa Pepa now boasts One Michelin Star, awarded in 2000 and maintained ever since and two Sones Repsol, achieved most recently in 2021.
Emmanuelle Baron: Head Chef with Heart and Vision
At the helm of the kitchen is Emmanuelle Baron, whose professional evolution is a testament to passion, skill, and respect for tradition. Baron’s journey began in prestigious culinary institutions in France, followed by formative roles in kitchens across Europe, including experiences at Joel Robuchon’s atelier in London and at Lasarte in San Sebastián. Most importantly, she spent many years collaborating closely with chef Alberto Ferruz at BonAmb in Xàbia before becoming Head Chef at Casa Pepa in 2023.
Baron’s culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in the legacy of Pepa Romans while embracing modern Mediterranean sensibilities. She prioritizes freshness, texture, and emotional resonance, often stating: “In the kitchen, the important thing is never to lose the desire to learn”. Under her leadership, Casa Pepa’s offerings showcase creativity without losing sight of comfort, simplicity, and regional identity.
Seasonal Menus: Tradition Reimagined
Casa Pepa’s menu is a refined tribute to the Mediterranean seasons, where traditional Valencian flavors are reinterpreted with contemporary flair. Rather than rigid tasting formats, the à la carte offering invites diners to explore a dynamic, produce-led selection that reflects both heritage and creativity.
Starters showcase fresh, local ingredients—think roasted peppers with marinated bacoreta and garlic-praliné, or carbonara-style lágrima peas with smoked pork cheek. Dishes like crisp artichoke flower with embryonic yolk or velvety vichyssoise custard with cod brandade reveal the kitchen’s elegant touch.
The soul of the menu lies in its rice and stewed specialties: meloso rice with rabbit and saffron alioli, sepia meatballs in squid ink mole, or seafood stew with crayfish and vanilla potato bring comfort and complexity. For mains, grilled local fish, slow-roasted kid goat, or venison with apple cream highlight Casa Pepa’s dedication to balance—between rustic authenticity and culinary evolution.
Wine, Sustainability & Ambience
Casa Pepa’s wine cellar is truly exceptional. Holding over 450 labels, the selection leans heavily on biodynamic and local wines from Alicante, Utiel‑Requena, Jumilla, and Valencia—including indigenous varieties like monastrell, bobal, moscatel and verdil.
Sustainability is central to the operation. The restaurant works with local growers in Ondara, Denia, Pedreguer, and Benissa. It also integrates eco‑friendly practices—including waste reduction, local sourcing (km 0), and energy efficiency initiatives.
Set in a restored Valencian farmhouse with century-old olive trees, vines and gardens, Casa Pepa offers a luminous dining room and an extensive terrace for up to 150 guests—perfect for events like weddings or corporate dinners, always with the same elegance and warmth.
Why Casa Pepa Should Be on Your Radar
Casa Pepa is more than a restaurant—it’s a culinary journey through time, place, and memory. Led by Emmanuelle Baron, the kitchen honors the firm foundation laid by Pepa Romans while embracing fresh ingredients, emotional clarity, and regional spirit. Whether you seek a leisurely lunch, a gastronomic dinner, or a special event in a natural Mediterranean setting, Casa Pepa is an elegant, soul‑filled destination in the Marina Alta.
