Welcome to Savoring Spain, where we share our personal journey through the rich and diverse culinary landscape of this beautiful country. For us, exploring new restaurants and indulging in local cuisine has always been an integral part of our travel adventures. Every meal is a chance to connect with the culture, history, and soul of a place, and Spain has offered us countless unforgettable dining experiences.

DISCOVERING O BALADO: A CULINARY GEM IN GALICIA

Nestled in the heart of Galicia, O Balado is a hidden gem that perfectly embodies the region's rich culinary traditions and innovative spirit. Located in the serene countryside of Boqueixón, just a short drive from Santiago de Compostela, this family-run restaurant offers a dining experience that combines rustic charm with contemporary elegance.

The Setting

O Balado is housed in a beautifully restored stone farmhouse, surrounded by lush green landscapes and tranquil gardens. The intimate and cozy interior that seats 16, with its wooden beams and rustic decor, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The Philosophy

At O Balado, the focus is on celebrating Galicia’s rich culinary heritage while embracing modern techniques and creativity. The restaurant is run by a passionate husband-and-wife team who take pride in sourcing the freshest local ingredients, often from their own garden or nearby farms. Their philosophy centers around sustainability, seasonality, and showcasing the authentic flavors of the region.

The Menu

O Balado offers a tasting menu that changes with the seasons, reflecting the best of what Galicia has to offer. Each dish is a work of art, meticulously crafted to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients. The menu is a journey through Galicia’s gastronomic landscape, featuring:

• Fresh Seafood: Galicia is renowned for its seafood, and O Balado does not disappoint. Look out for dishes featuring succulent clams, octopus, and the region's famous percebes (gooseneck barnacles).
• Local Meats: The menu often includes tender cuts of locally sourced beef and pork, prepared with innovative techniques that enhance their natural flavors.
• Garden Vegetables: Fresh, seasonal vegetables from the restaurant’s own garden are a staple, providing vibrant and delicious accompaniments to the main dishes.
• Traditional Desserts: End your meal with a taste of traditional Galician desserts, often given a modern twist to surprise and delight your palate.

The Experience

Dining at O Balado is more than just a meal; it's an experience that engages all the senses. The attentive and friendly service makes you feel like a cherished guest, while the thoughtfully curated wine list features some of the best regional wines, perfectly paired to complement each course.

A Visit to Remember

Whether you are a seasoned foodie or simply someone who appreciates good food in a beautiful setting, O Balado is a must-visit. The combination of traditional Galician hospitality, innovative cuisine, and a stunning location makes it a truly unforgettable dining experience.

When planning your next trip to Galicia, make sure to set aside an evening to savor the exceptional culinary delights at O Balado. It’s a place where time slows down, and each bite tells a story of the land, the sea, and the passionate people behind the scenes.

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A MEMORABLE STAY AT THE LODGE POZOS: CULINARY DELIGHTS WITH CHEF ESMERALDO AND LAURA 

Our stay at The Lodge Pozos was nothing short of extraordinary. Tucked away in the charming town of Pozos, this retreat provided the perfect backdrop for a culinary adventure we won't soon forget. Over two unforgettable nights, we indulged in fantastic food crafted by the talented Chef Esmeraldo and even had the chance to learn from him in a hands-on cooking class.

The Setting

The Lodge Pozos is a serene haven, surrounded by the natural beauty of the León countryside. The rustic charm of the lodge, combined with modern comforts, creates an inviting atmosphere that makes you feel at home from the moment you arrive. We were fortunate to be the only guests staying.

Culinary Delights

The highlight of our stay was undoubtedly the food. Each day, we were treated to culinary masterpieces prepared by Chef Esmeraldo, whose passion for local ingredients and innovative cooking techniques shone through in every dish. Throughout our stay, we enjoyed a variety of dishes that celebrated the rich flavors of the region. From succulent seafood to tender cuts of locally sourced meat, each meal was a testament to Chef Esmeraldo's skill and creativity. Complementing these culinary delights were wonderful aperitifs served by his wife Laura, each expertly crafted to enhance our dining experience.

Cooking Class with Chef Esmeraldo

Another standout experience was the cooking class we took with Chef Esmeraldo. We learned to cook traditional dishes such as tortilla Española, croquetas, and Asturiana fabada and learned to cut jamón. It was all amazing!

A Stay to Remember

Our stay at The Lodge Pozos was a perfect blend of relaxation and culinary exploration. The combination of stunning surroundings, exceptional food, wonderful aperitifs, and the warm hospitality of Chef Esmeraldo and Laura made it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, The Lodge Pozos offers an experience that will linger in your memory long after you've returned home.

DONAMARIA'KO BENTA: A CULINARY HAVEN IN NAVARRA 

Our journey through Navarra led us to a delightful discovery: Donamaria'ko Benta. This charming restaurant, located in the tranquil village of Donamaria, offered an unforgettable dining experience that perfectly captured the essence of Navarrese cuisine. Over the course of our visit, we were treated to an array of exquisite dishes.

The Setting

Donamaria'ko Benta is located in a picturesque spot surrounded by rolling hills, lush greenery, and beautiful Ezpelura River that you can admire if dining outside. The restaurant itself exudes country charm.

Culinary Delights

The culinary experience at Donamaria'ko Benta is nothing short of spectacular. Sisters, Haizea and Lorea pride themselves on using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, and this commitment to quality is evident in every dish.

We highly recommend Donamaria'ko Benta to anyone traveling through Navarra. We had a lovely two night stay right next door at Donamaria'ko Benta Rural Hostel. It’s a place where you can slow down, savor the region’s finest cuisine, and create lasting memories.

EL CAPRICHO

El Capricho, located in the small village of Jiménez de Jamuz in Spain's León province, is hailed as a mecca for meat enthusiasts. Renowned for its world-class beef and the vision of its owner, José Gordón, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience rooted in tradition, sustainability, and a deep respect for the art of farming and grilling.

The Setting

El Capricho stands as a culinary beacon for food lovers. The restaurant is located in a rustic building with a timeless charm, surrounded by the tranquil countryside of northern Spain. Inside, the warm stone walls and wooden beams create an inviting atmosphere, blending tradition with understated elegance. It’s a place where the focus is on the experience, and every detail encourages you to slow down and savor the moment.

The Philosophy

El Capricho is the life’s work of José Gordón, a farmer and chef who has devoted himself to perfecting the craft of beef. The restaurant’s philosophy centers on sustainable and ethical farming practices, with a commitment to raising oxen under optimal conditions, often allowing them to live for 15 years or more. This slow and thoughtful approach, combined with traditional aging and grilling techniques, has solidified El Capricho’s reputation as a world-class destination for beef lovers.

The Menu

The menu is a celebration of the ox, with each dish paying homage to the exceptional quality of the meat. From the dry-aged ribeye to the deeply flavorful oxtail stews, every bite is crafted to highlight the natural richness of the product. The tasting menu offers a curated journey through the best El Capricho has to offer, while an impressive selection of Spanish wines provides the perfect accompaniment. For those seeking a balanced experience, the menu also includes a handful of vegetable-forward dishes, prepared with the same care as the meats.

The Experience

A meal at El Capricho is more than dining; it’s an immersive experience. Guests have the opportunity to see the impressive aging chambers where the beef is meticulously matured, and José Gordón himself often engages with diners to share his passion for his craft. The arrival of each dish is a moment to be savored, with the aromas and flavors of the expertly grilled beef leaving a lasting impression. Every detail, from the presentation to the pacing of the courses, is designed to let the quality of the ingredients shine.

A Visit to Remember

El Capricho is a destination that transcends expectations, offering an unparalleled experience for lovers of exceptional food. From the tranquil surroundings to the passion infused in every plate, this is a journey into the heart of Spanish culinary tradition. For anyone seeking a dining experience that will linger in their memory, a visit to El Capricho is truly unforgettable.