Valencia | Asador de Aranda

🍖 Asador de Aranda: Valencia’s Timeless Meat Spot—Where Vintage Charm Meets Mouthwatering Grills Nestled near Xativa (down the alley by Zara Home), this restaurant feels like a scene from a classic film. With its 欧式 (European-inspired) decor—ornate table settings, stained glass floral windows, and a grand staircase—it oozes old-world elegance. Whether you’re dining with friends, on a date, or with family, the ambiance alone makes the meal feel special. And the food? It lives up to the setting. 🌟 Standout Dishes 1/4 Lechazo de Aranda 🐑 The headline act. Slow-roasted lamb leg, cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven. The skin is gloriously crispy, while the meat inside is tender, juicy, and free of any gamey taste—just rich, smoky perfection. A friend swears by the lamb chops, so we’re already planning a return to try them. La Morcilla de Arroz 🖤 A delightful surprise for first-timers. This rice-stuffed blood sausage has a crispy casing and a savory filling, topped with sweet, peeled red peppers (even those who avoid peppers will enjoy these). It’s unexpectedly delicious—don’t hesitate. Chuletón de Vaca a la Piedra 🥩 Stone-grilled steak, fresh and tender. Cooked to “punto” (medium-rare) with a quick sear, it’s high-quality meat that lets its natural flavor shine. Note: The plate stays extremely hot—be careful! Verduras a la Brasa & Small Potatoes 🍠 Grilled vegetables and tiny potatoes, charred to smoky perfection. They’re the ideal complement to the rich meats—simple but addictive. 😐 The So-So (and the Skip) Croqueta de Bacalao & Jamón Ibérico 🧀 Classic fried croquettes with cod and Iberian ham fillings. Six per serving, they’re crispy outside, creamy inside—reliable, if not memorable. Ensalada Mixta 🥗 A letdown. Overly tangy and acidic; we found ourselves wishing for heartier greens (like those from D-vora or la selva) to balance it. Give this a pass. 🍰 Dessert: Nothing Fancy Hojaldre de Crema 🥐 A buttery cream puff pastry—tasty, but ordinary. You’ll find similar versions at local cafes. 📍 Practical Info Price: ~€30 per person (varies based on how much you order). Vibe: Warm, vintage, with friendly service—perfect for meat lovers. Asador de Aranda delivers on flavor and atmosphere, with only the salad missing the mark. For anyone craving top-notch grilled meats in a charming setting, it’s a must-visit in Valencia. #ValenciaEats #GrillLovers #VintageDining