ROSA MARIA ESTEVA

... Capella, in the landmark-laden neighborhood of Eixample in Barcelona. Since then, the hotel has become a place to "live with the locals" as Esteva puts it. “When we opened, it was rare that a local would go to a hotel for a drink or a meal. But with the success of Moo and the bar—as well as the spa, which our neighbors love—we’ve managed to keep locals in the mix,” Esteva says. “I always think it’s a bit sad when hotels become tourist ghettos.” To ensure everything runs smoothly, Esteva even lives above the hotel, dines in the Michelin-starred MOO Restaurant and even occasionally spends a day in the Spa. Her presence can be felt in every detail of the hotel—from the black hallways to the hotel's signature facade, Hotel OMM is Esteva's project. Whereas her gastronomic empire Grupo Tragaluz, which includes 16 restaurants, is a joint venture with her son, the hotel is Esteva's own doing. Her touches are also evident in Moo, the hotel's restaurant. Esteva wanted Moo to have its own identity, so she hired the renowned Roca brothers of the famous El Celler de Can Roca (with three Michelin stars) to create Moo, now one of Barcelona’s hottest spots for lunch and dinner. Esteva is all about quality control!