In the heart of the Pyrenees, surrounded by majestic mountains and silence, where the population barely reaches a dozen, an event has shaken Spain’s gastronomic map. The restaurant Casa Rubén, located in the tiny village of Hospital de Tella (Huesca), has received its first Michelin star. This achievement is not only a milestone for the establishment itself, but for the entire region, where such honors are rare.
Locals and travelers who find themselves in these parts can now take pride in having a nationally recognized restaurant among them. Casa Rubén is more than just a place to eat. It is a family story rooted in the late 1980s, when simple dishes were served here to weary travelers and villagers. Over the years, both the menu and the approach to cooking have evolved, yet a respect for tradition has remained unchanged.
Owner and chef Rubén Coronas Capablo breathed new life into the family business. After studying at the prestigious Guayente culinary school, he returned home to blend classic Pyrenean recipes with modern gastronomic trends. His approach strikes a balance between honoring the past and a drive for innovation.
A menu that surprises even the most discerning
Today, Casa Rubén invites guests to try its tasting menu, ‘Sueños’ (‘Dreams’), a true find for haute cuisine enthusiasts. The menu offers a creative take on local ingredients, starting with a tasting of Koroneiki Shio olive oil and fresh pastries, followed by a cocktail, five appetizers, seven original starters, two meat dishes, two desserts, and finishing with petit fours. This gastronomic experience costs €85, which is refreshingly affordable for a Michelin-starred restaurant of such caliber.
Each dish is the result of painstaking work and experimentation with textures, flavors, and presentation. Rubén is not afraid to break from tradition but always preserves the unmistakable character of Pyrenean cuisine. His wife Cristina curates the dining room atmosphere, and many guests highlight her attentiveness and genuine hospitality as key elements of the restaurant’s success.
A unique setting and atmosphere
Casa Rubén is housed in a building rich in history: its stone vaults date back to 1593, and every corner is steeped in the spirit of the past. The windows overlook the breathtaking valleys of the Cinca and Yaga rivers, while the Hospital de Tella itself sits at the entrance to the Escuaín gorges—one of the most scenic routes to the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park.
The restaurant’s proximity to natural attractions makes it especially appealing to tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Just a few kilometers away is Aínsa, with Bielsa and the Pineta valley a little further, while the Monte Perdido massif rises on the horizon, providing a unique backdrop for dinner.
Family Traditions with a Modern Perspective
The story of Casa Rubén is a testament to how family values and a love for one’s homeland can lay the foundation for great success. The restaurant began by serving simple dishes to locals and travelers; today, its cuisine is recognized as among the best in the country. Yet, the team remains true to its roots: every dish reflects a deep respect for the traditions and nature of the Pyrenees.
Guests appreciate not only the quality of the food, but also the special atmosphere of comfort and warmth created by the owners. Here, there is no rush of big cities—every visit becomes a small journey, both in taste and in time.
Casa Rubén: A New Gastronomic Landmark of the Pyrenees
Earning a Michelin star in such a sparsely populated area is truly remarkable. Casa Rubén has proven that genuine culinary masterpieces can emerge even in the most remote corners of Spain. This restaurant is now a must-visit destination for anyone seeking not only excellent food, but also a unique experience filled with history, nature, and sincere hospitality.
