Today, Monday 12th January 2026, at 10:30 a.m., the Torrevieja Town Hall hosted the official presentation to the media of the Golden Fork Awards 2026 and other distinctions awarded by the Association of Hospitality Businessmen of Torrevieja and Region (AEHTC).
The event was held in the Assembly Hall of the Town Hall and was opened by the president of the AEHTC, José Ignacio Pastor Pérezwho has announced the list of award winners for this year's edition, marked by the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Association.
Winners of the Golden Fork Awards 2026
Plaque of Recognition Company 2026 - Makro
Distinction awarded to a company closely linked to the hospitality sector, which constantly supports its associates and actively collaborates with the AEHTC. In recent years, Makro has established itself as a fundamental pillar for the local hotel and catering industry.
Honorary Member 2026 - Tomás A. Arenas Mercader
Recognition of associates who have made an outstanding contribution to the development of the Association. This distinction takes on special relevance as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of his establishment and his career as former president of the AEHTC, reflecting an exemplary commitment to the hospitality industry in Torrevieja.
Chef of the Year 2026 (period 2025) - Ángel González Martos
This award recognises the chef who has stood out for his or her talent, creativity and innovation, as well as for his or her impact and influence on local and regional gastronomy.
Silver Tray 2026 - Mini Golf "Las Salinas".
Distinction awarded to associated establishments for their trajectory and good work. Mini Golf "Las Salinas" celebrates this year 40 years of history as an emblematic space for leisure and family gatherings in Torrevieja.
Hospitality 2026 - Hotel Torrejoven
Recognition for its contribution to the development of tourism in the Vega Baja region. The Torrejoven Hotel, one of the oldest in the city, stands out for its quality service and its firm commitment to local tourism.
Golden Fork 2026 - La Mar de Bien Restaurant
The Golden Fork 2026the highest award given by the AEHTC, has been awarded to the Restaurant La Mar de Bienfor its excellence, trajectory and projection in local gastronomy.
During the year 2025, the establishment has achieved important recognitions:
- Winner of the competition Croqueting in Torrevieja
- Winner of the competition Nos Vamos de Tapasin the category Traditional Tapa
- Torrevieja representative in La Mitjor Tapeta del Món (The Best Cover in the World)
The award gives special recognition to the work of Daria Macanowner of the restaurant, whose commitment to traditional cuisine with avant-garde touches, based on local products and maximum quality, has turned La Mar de Bien into a gastronomic reference point in the region.
An institutional event with broad support
The event was attended by all the award winners, members of the Board of Directors of the AEHTC, the Councillor for Hospitality and Tourism, Rosario Martínezand the mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolón.
The mayor congratulated the award winners, highlighting their effort, commitment and professionalism, which place the local hotel and catering industry "at the top", and praised the work of the AEHTC on its 50th anniversary, underlining the solidity and continuity of an association with five decades of history.
For her part, the councillor for Catering and Tourism highlighted the wisdom of the choice of the awards, especially in such a symbolic year, highlighting the coherence, prestige and track record of both the award winners and the organising body.
Brotherhood Dinner
The Golden Forks" Brotherhood Dinner will be held on friday 27 february at the Torrevieja International Auditorium. This edition will be especially emotional as it commemorates the 50th anniversary of the AEHTC, an event that will bring together the best of the local hospitality industry.
The Association of Hotel and Catering Businesses of Torrevieja and Region is proud to be able to celebrate this milestone together with some award winners who represent the excellence of the sector.