Valencia | La Cabila

🍽️ La Cábila: Valencia’s Michelin-Recognized Gem in El Carmen Tucked down a quiet alley in El Carmen, this tiny 2022 Michelin-recommended spot feels like a friend’s cozy kitchen. With old-world decor and a focus on fresh, simple flavors, it’s a testament to why “casera” (homestyle) cooking shines—no frills, just care. 🌟 Our Experience with the €48 “Menú Mercat” The set menu (4 starters, 1 hot dish, 1 dessert) lets the chef flex with daily market finds—and it works. Here’s how it broke down: Starters: Tartar de Atún 🐟 Fresh tuna with red pepper, bright and briny—though a touch salty for my mild palate (non-drinkers might notice this more). Calamar 🦑 Squid cooked to tender perfection, with a light sauce that lets its natural sweetness shine. No fishiness, just clean, refreshing flavor. Fried Small Fish 🐟 Crispy exterior, flaky interior—simple, well-seasoned, and easy to pop in your mouth. Beef & Artichoke Tartare 🥩 Fresh beef, but the artichokes (alcachofas) overshadowed it for me. A solid dish, just not my favorite. Main: Dorada (Sea Bream) 🐠 The standout. Pan-seared to crispy-skin perfection, the flesh is juicy, flaky, and packed with ocean flavor. Served with crispy baby potatoes and artichokes, it’s hearty enough to satisfy without feeling heavy. Dessert: Ice cream with yogurt chunks, fresh figs, and pomegranate 🍦 A dreamy finish—tangy, sweet, and vibrant. The pretty pink plate? Just icing on the cake. 🧑🍳 Behind the Scenes Chef Fernando (a Valencia local) brings experience from top restaurants, but here, he leans into simplicity. Every dish highlights fresh ingredients, cooked with precision but no unnecessary flair. 📍 Details Menus: Choose from €35 (lunch-only “Menú Cuchara”), €48 (“Mercat”), €65 (“del Caid”), or the monthly “Cena Maridaje” (seafood + wine, Tuesdays only). Hours: Closed Wednesdays–Thursdays; book ahead (it’s tiny!). Vibe: Warm, unpretentious, with attentive service that makes you feel at home. La Cábila earns its Michelin nod not through theatrics, but through heart. For a meal that feels like a labor of love, this El Carmen spot is a must. #ValenciaMichelin #ElCarmenEats #FreshFlavors