Raúl Gañán, ex-player for Deportivo Alavés, has embraced a new career in hospitality fifteen years after retiring from football. At his bar, Mendia, located in Alegría-Dulantzi, he offers a concept focused on good food and a relaxed atmosphere, free from screens and haste. Although originally from Bilbao, he chose to settle in Álava after his football career.

The transition from professional footballer to restaurateur was not sudden. Gañán prepared for it during his final playing years, balancing training with learning about cooking and restaurant management. "In Eibar, I trained in the morning and then went to the restaurant to learn everything," he recalls.

In the kitchen, Gañán has a clear style: "I really like stews and fish," he states. Among the most successful dishes at his bar, the rabas (fried squid rings) are particularly noteworthy. Despite his football past, the sport takes a backseat at Mendia.

Throughout his career, he has also managed the bars Zabala and El Bosque. Now, in Alegría, he has found a quieter place to settle permanently. Although still recognized, he considers himself "just one of the locals" in daily life.

His connection with Deportivo Alavés remains strong; his son is an avid supporter of the club. He cherishes indelible memories from his playing days, such as his First Division debut at the Vicente Calderón stadium and the club's historic European campaign. However, he admits that "the regret I have is not having played as much as I would have liked".

He also maintains a special bond with UD Salamanca, where he spent nine seasons and which, despite its dissolution, continues to be a part of his identity as a footballer.