SEGOVIA - RESTAURANTE JOSÉ MARÍA Michelin Basic Guide If you are looking for a traditional Segovian food experience, Restaurante José María, just off the Plaza Mayor, is one of the city’s classic places to visit. Founded by José María Ruiz Benito in 1982, it has become one of Segovia’s best-known restaurants. Walk into the busy bar, and you will find it filled with a mix of locals, from those taking a break at the end of the day to families who wheel their baby prams into t

A FEW DAYS SPENT IN AND AROUND HARO IN LA RIOJA We arrived from Bilbao airport and checked into our hotel in Haro, the splendid HOTEL LOS AGUSTINOS Calle San Agustín 2, 26200 Haro, La Rioja +34 941 31 13 08 Founded as a convent in 1373, the building has been through various guises, including a 1809 Guarnición Militar (Military Garrison). 1811 Hospital Militar (Military hospital). 1839 Carcel (Prison). 1989 Hotel. It is a beautiful building steeped in history. It include

CASA ADELINA Casa Adelina has been operating in the small town of Turre for over 50 years, since its opening in 1973. It was founded by Adelina Cervantes and her husband, Juan Martínez. It began more modestly than the restaurant you see today. It was essentially a small tapas bar serving locals with simple, traditional Almerian food. Adelina prepared recipes passed down through the local culinary tradition. The place became increasingly popular, particularly for Adelina’s car

RESTAURANTE ASADOR TXAKOLI SIMÓN After a 15- to 20-minute walk from the Funicular de Artxanda, you arrive at Restaurante Asador Txakolli Simón, high above Bilbao. Óscar García, the grill master at this restaurant, has a particular fondness for the Friesian breed of cow, known for its great value for money. On particularly busy days, he can prepare up to eight rib strips in a single service. When the sun is shining in Bilbao, you go to Artxanda, the viewpoint of Bilbao, and ta

A TASTE OF SPAIN WITH MARUKA Our friend, Howard Goldsmith of Alicante Sunshine Villas, moved from Manchester to just outside the small village of Sax, in inland Alicante, over twenty years ago. This story is one of the reasons he loves it there and would never return to the UK. Our elderly (elderly!! I’m 65) neighbours have adopted us as their children. Manolo and Maruka (Maria Eugenia) are 89 and 78, respectively. They live in an enormous townhouse where she was born, and sh

When you think of Spain, you might picture sun-soaked plazas, lively flamenco music, and the enticing aromas of authentic Spanish cuisine. If you’re planning a trip and want to immerse yourself in the rich flavours of Madrid, you’re in for a delightful experience. Today, I invite you to embark on a culinary journey to explore the unique charm of one of Madrid’s treasures. Casa Toni Madrid is a small, unassuming bar and restaurant that may not look like much at first. However,

ALFREDO BAR RESTAURANTE Mark Walsh returned to one of his favourite spots in San Pedro de Alcántara, just outside Marbella. We keep going back to Alfredo Bar Restaurante, and for good reason. It’s a family-run spot (open since 1981) that doesn’t shout from the street but welcomes you like an old friend once you step inside, transporting you back to ’80s Spain. The decor reminds me of when I went to Spain as a kid. You will find a large dining room with old Spanish pictures an

CASA PUGA There is no more classic bar in all of Almería than this one. It is an old-style bar known for traditional Andalusian tapas steeped in history. It dates back to 1870, undoubtedly one of the oldest in Almería. Overloaded with ancient wine bottles on dusty shelves, tiled walls, a marble bar, an exposed iron grill, and hanging Jamónes, these are key parts of the decoration, as are the several non-stop waiters. All the tapas are excellent but straightforward. Try, Ques

If you're dreaming of sun-soaked beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a plate piled high with mouth-watering local dishes, the Balearic Islands should be at the top of your list. This archipelago off Spain's eastern coast is more than just stunning views and vibrant nightlife. It's a treasure trove of culinary delights that will have your taste buds dancing. Ready to dive into a world where tradition meets flavour? Let's explore the Balearic Islands' food guide together. Your U

If you’re dreaming of sun-soaked beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant food scene that’s as rich as the islands’ history, then the Balearic Islands should be at the top of your list. But let’s be honest - the real magic of any trip lies in the food and drink. Lucky for you, the Balearics offer a feast for your senses, blending traditional Mediterranean flavours with local twists that will have you coming back for more. Ready to dive into the Balearic Islands’ cuisine g