In Palamós, three local chefs, Lluïsa Ferrer, Marina Plana and Helena Juscafresa, have been named Palamós Prawn Ambassadors 2026. The annual distinction is awarded by the Regulatory Commission of the Palamós Prawn Guarantee Mark for work promoting the prawn and local seafood gastronomy.
The award ceremony took place on Thursday at the Espai del Peix in Palamós, during the 11th Palamós Prawn Fair. Certificates were also handed to companies joining the Guarantee Mark this year, including the local restaurant La Gatzoneta.
The commission said the three chefs were recognised for their careers and for helping pass on culinary knowledge through workshops, talks and other gastronomic activities in the municipality. Their work has focused on traditional cuisine and seafood, with the Palamós prawn at the centre.
Palamós mayor Maria Puig and the head of the Palamós Fishermen's Guild, Miquel Mir, presented the award. Over recent years, Ferrer, Plana and Juscafresa have taken part in projects at the Espai del Peix, activities at the elderly people's home and talks at the Municipal Library.
They have also helped create L'Escudella de Palamós, a traditional seafood dish made with products from the local fish market. The three chefs are also part of the Gastrosàvies project, a Government of Catalonia initiative linked to Catalonia as a World Gastronomy Region 2025, which aims to preserve and pass on traditional Catalan cooking to younger generations. More Catalonia news
The Palamós Prawn Guarantee Mark was created in 2008 by the Town Council and the Fishermen's Guild. It now includes about 140 accredited businesses, including fishing boats, fishmongers, distributors and restaurants. The certification sets quality standards and strict controls for handling, preservation and sale. Palamós Town Council Government of Catalonia
The recognition forms part of the Palamós Prawn Fair, which will be held on Saturday, 13 June, on the esplanade of the fishing port's fish market. Visitors will be able to try prawns and dishes made with them, and take part in showcookings, guided boat visits and tours of the fish auction.
