A Spanish restaurant chain named "La Mafia Se Sienta A La Mesa" (Mafia at the Table) has been ordered to change its name following a court ruling. The decision comes after Italy's embassy in Spain filed a complaint in 2018, arguing that the name was offensive and presented organized crime in a "cool" manner, thereby impacting Italian culture and traditions. The ruling aligns with previous decisions from the EU Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO).

On 5/3, the Spanish Patent and Trademark Office (OEPM) approved Italy's request, ruling that the brand violates public order and morality. The OEPM's analysis concluded that the Mafia existed long before the company registered its trademark. It further stated that the organization's activities "are contrary to the ethical and moral principles recognized in all EU member states." This ruling echoes the EUIPO's earlier decision, which found the name invalid for conveying a "globally positive image" of the mafia.

The "La Mafia Se Sienta A La Mesa" brand was founded in 2000 by two friends with a passion for Italian cuisine. The unique name was inspired by a cookbook title that motivated the founders when they opened their first restaurant. However, the use of "Mafia," an Italian term for organized crime gangs, has sparked anger across Italy.

One of the chain's locations in Madrid. *Photo: El Mundo*.

In its defense, the restaurant chain argued that its name originated from a cookbook, not from the notorious criminal organization. It also contended that the word "mafia" has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, no longer solely linked to organized crime. The company highlighted that thousands of businesses, songs, bands, and films use this term, questioning why intellectual property courts have specifically targeted their brand.

The restaurant chain has announced it is reviewing, with its legal team, the possibility of appealing the OEPM's decision. The company asserted that there is no precedent in Spain for such a ruling and that the restaurant has operated successfully for 25 years without any controversy stemming from its name. The company also noted that it had repeatedly attempted to engage in direct dialogue with the Italian ambassador to explain the origin and meaning of the name, but these requests were not accepted.

Currently, the brand operates nearly 100 restaurants and over 30 travel agency outlets across Spain and Portugal, employing a total of over 2,500 staff. In 2025, the company's revenue exceeded 132 million EUR, serving more than 5 million customers.

Hai Thu (According to El Mundo, Expansion)