The 'Haba Poblera', Gastronomic Star of Benitatxell's Mitjafava Fest

On Friday, April 4th, the general public will have the opportunity to enjoy the culinary creations of chefs Ferdinando Bernardi (Casa Bernardi in Benissa) and Ausiàs Signes (Ausiàs Restaurant in Pedreguer) for free in El Poble Nou de Benitatxell. As part of the Mitjafava Fest 2025 programme, the Town Hall has organised a 'showcooking' event where the chefs will showcase their skills and culinary knowledge, preparing dishes with the town's star product: the 'haba poblera'.

Following the cooking demonstration, attendees will be treated to an honorary wine and tapas conceived by Ferdinando, who will prepare a pecorino romano and broad bean risotto. Bernardi, the owner of Casa Bernardi in Benissa, has turned his personal project into a home and challenge that has already earned a Sol Repsol (2023) and a Michelin Star (2024). Using local products and proximity ingredients, Ferdinando and his team craft Italian cuisine dishes to connect with his roots from the Alicante Mediterranean. Ferdinando has also made several guest appearances on the cooking show MasterChef, where he has highlighted the value of Italian pasta.

Meanwhile, Ausiàs will prepare 'faves sacsades', mint, pork fat, and chilli. Ausiàs Signes and Felicia Guerra run their personal project in a small establishment built in an old village house in the heart of Pedreguer. Ausiàs Signes' cuisine is also one of territory, proximity, and zero kilometre. Local produce takes centre stage, and the flavours of Mediterranean cuisine come to the forefront under the guidelines of immediacy, lightness, colour, and above all, flavour. Pastry and baking are present throughout the menu. In essence, they offer a cuisine of traditional flavours, but without limits.

The event will be hosted by Marina Vega, a journalist and gastronomic communicator, and the honorary wine will be accompanied by music from pianist Estela Malonda. The event, which will take place from 8 p.m. in the Plaza de les Pesqueres, is free and open to the public.