Pepa Muñoz

Pepa Muñoz is a chef who has transformed her passion for authentic flavors into a culinary empire. From her early days cooking alongside her father to leading the renowned restaurant El Qüenco de Pepa (Madrid), she exemplifies dedication, innovation, and a deep respect for Spanish culinary traditions.

Born in Madrid in 1969, Pepa Muñoz was immersed in the world of cooking from a young age. At just nine years old, she began cleaning squid and anchovies in her family's business, and by eleven, she was cooking alongside her father, Pepe, who also worked as a caterer across Spain . Her early exposure to the culinary arts laid the foundation for a career dedicated to preserving and elevating Spanish cuisine.

In 2003, Pepa and her partner Mila Nieto opened El Qüenco de Pepa, a restaurant that quickly became a beacon of gastronomic excellence. The establishment is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, sourcing ingredients directly from local farmers, fishermen, and producers. This farm-to-table approach ensures that each dish reflects the rich flavors of the region.

El Qüenco de Pepa has garnered numerous accolades, including a recognition from the Repsol Guide (Sol Repsol). The restaurant's menu showcases seasonal produce, with a particular emphasis on tomatoes, which Pepa has championed as a central ingredient in her culinary creations .

A Champion of Social Causes

Beyond her culinary achievements, Pepa Muñoz is deeply committed to social causes. She serves as the Spanish representative for World Central Kitchen, the humanitarian organization founded by chef José Andrés. In this role, Pepa has been instrumental in providing meals during natural disasters and crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine .

Pepa's contributions to Spanish cuisine and society have not gone unnoticed. In 2022, she was awarded the Medalla de Honor de Madrid, one of the city's highest honors, in recognition of her promotion of traditional cooking and sustainable food practices. Additionally, Pepa was appointed as the ambassador for "M Producto Certificado," a certification that guarantees the origin and quality of food products from the Madrid region. This role underscores her commitment to supporting local agriculture and promoting regional culinary excellence .

As she continues to lead El Qüenco de Pepa and contribute to various social initiatives, Pepa Muñoz remains a formidable figure in the culinary world. Her unwavering dedication to authentic flavors, sustainability, and community service ensures that her influence will continue to shape the future of Spanish gastronomy.