María Ritter

From Bogotá to Madrid, María Ritter has transformed the Repsol Guide into a vibrant celebration of Spain's culinary scene, emphasizing happiness, sustainability, and inclusivity.

Born in Bogotá in 1974, María Ritter's multicultural upbringing—Italian grandmother, English father, and experiences in cities like Lima and Buenos Aires—instilled in her a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and cuisines. After a successful career in corporate communication, she moved to Madrid in 1999 and eventually became the director of the Repsol Guide in 2015. Under her leadership, the guide has evolved from a traditional road companion into a dynamic platform that celebrates Spain's rich gastronomic landscape.

Ritter's vision for the Repsol Guide is clear: to highlight places where people can find happiness through food. She believes that gastronomy is a source of joy and aims to showcase restaurants that offer not just excellent cuisine but also memorable experiences. In 2025, the guide recognized 90new establishments, including the prestigious three Soles awarded to Bagá in Jaén and La Finca in Elche. These accolades have a significant impact, often boosting a restaurant's business by up to 30%.

Promoting Sustainability and Women’s Role

Beyond recognizing excellence, Ritter is committed to promoting sustainability and inclusivity in the culinary world. She emphasizes the importance of local, seasonal ingredients and supports small producers who prioritize environmentally friendly practices. In 2022, she participated in discussions on sustainability in hospitality, highlighting the role of conscious consumer choices and responsible business practices.

Ritter also champions the role of women in gastronomy. She has worked to increase the visibility of female chefs and professionals in the industry, noting that many of the country's best dining experiences are led by women. In 2023, the Repsol Guide's gala dinner was prepared exclusively by female chefs, showcasing their talent and leadership in the culinary arts.

Under Ritter's guidance, the Repsol Guide has embraced digital transformation, expanding its online presence and launching a mobile app to help users discover and book dining experiences. She has also introduced new categories like Soletes, which recognize charming, accessible eateries, further democratizing the guide's offerings .

Looking ahead, Ritter aims to continue expanding the guide's reach, including potential collaborations with Portugal, and to keep highlighting the diverse culinary treasures across Spain. Her goal remains steadfast: to help people find happiness through food, one meal at a time.

In María Ritter's words, "Gastronomy is a source of happiness." Through her work with the Repsol Guide, she invites everyone to explore the joy that good food and shared experiences can bring.