Terraza Bar el Barrio calle san Francisco de Asis 111 Ronda — Restaurant in Ronda

We came across this place by chance one evening as we walked away from the main tourist spots. From the outside, this place looked like a typical neighbourhood bar serving the familiar locals, and we weren't sure they were serving food. One of the owners (assuming mum) noticed us contemplating through the window and invited us in, sat us down, and told us there was no menu as such. Instead, there was the daily tapas, a choice of a mushroom or tomato starter, and then, for mains, a plate of meat cooked on a charcoal served with homemade fried potatoes. So along with our drink came a choice of tapas. We opted for a Russian salad and, in my opinion, quite the best one I've sampled so far in my 6 years of travelling Andalusia. For starters, we both chose the mushroom dish... which was sublime!! A single fresh, stuffed mushroom lightly coated and fried, drizzled with a sweet glaze and topped with crispy onions, aioli, and what I can only describe as a sprinkle of magic. The flavour and texture were incredible. As we waited for our main dish, we were served three variations of the local sausage, which we were beautifully balanced in flavour and cooked perfectly. For mains, the meat of the day was shoulder of pork. Served on a bed of hand-cut patatas fritas, small slices of expertly char grilled meat. Tender, juicy, full of flavour, and simply irresistible. All of the above was served with friendly, authentic charm. Do not assume this place doesn't deserve a visit simply because it may look 'local' from the outside. It's exactly what you should be sampling when visiting the gem...

While spending our time in Ronda, I conducted a review of Spanish barbecue establishments and this place was a standout. We decided to try it. First... no menus. The place only seems to have one meal plan. Starts with a little ant paste and bread. Then a tomato salad, followed by a fried mushroom. From that, a sampling of sausages. Once completed with that, the entree of grilled meats (pork, beef and ribs) on top of a mound of fries. All items were excellent. The meat needed nothing. Cooked to perfection.

Lastly, they wanted to finish up with a dessert, but we were too full to enbib, so they presented us with several liquors :).

There was a language struggle as English was very limited, but all worked out. When it was time to depart we asked for a taxi to be called for us, none were available. The female hostess gave us a ride back to our hotel. So nice. While riding back she took us on small tour of the town we did not previously see.

In closing. If you want some awesome Spanish barbacoa while while in Ronda, I give this...

Amazing dinner!! We were staying south of Ronda and this restaurant was closest to us. At 7:30 we were the only guests. Had a true local Experience! The owners don’t speak much English but we communicated just fine. LOVED the mushrooms tomato tuna salad mixed grill and potatoes and - the most perfectly cooked delicious steak. Great bottle of wine. They even gave us a demo of how to recreate the mushrooms at home! Would def recommend to others and it was a nice change from tapas. One of our fav dinners during two weeks in Spain!...