A journey that has not been without its challenges for José Luis, who took over from his former boss and friend Diego just a month and a half before the pandemic began. Those first months were marked by ups and downs and a somewhat bittersweet start, shaping the beginning of a new era for Rekonkista’s current manager. Although he had been involved with the business since 2014, he became its owner in 2020.
The bar’s name does not come from the street where it is located. Photo: Pilar Álvarez
There is always a story behind the name of a venue, and in this case it has less to do with the street where it is located than one might think. “The bar was initially called Conquista, but when Diego took over, he decided to reconquer it in his own way and named it Rekonkista,” Prieto explains to Aragón Digital.
ROCK IS THE ESSENCE
Anyone who enters the venue will find an atmosphere where rock takes center stage. The melodies of Marea, Fito y Fitipaldis and La Fuga de Antaño accompany customers every afternoon and evening, because the rock of yesterday and today is the driving force behind the business. “It is something that must endure, because there are always people who like this style of music,” says the owner, who embarked on this adventure because of his lifelong love of the genre.
The venue is decorated with photographs of iconic rock bands. Photo: Pilar Álvarez
With a simple offering—beer and the occasional cocktail—Rekonkista has built up a loyal clientele over the years. “In the end, you have another family,” says the owner, who points out that “many of them come three or four times a week.”
And like any bar with soul, it also keeps stories within its walls. For José Luis, the venue’s anniversaries are his favorite memory. “Everyone would get together, we would play music in the street and fill it with people.”
FUTURE PLANS
As an ambitious person who is passionate about his business, José Luis is always aiming higher. He says that his dream, if he can afford it one day, is to open another similar bar outside the city center, so people do not have to go too far to enjoy “good music.”
