Mind — Restaurant in Vélez-Málaga

A Rising Star Culinary Gem in Torre Del Mar: Mind Restaurant

In the picturesque coastal setting of Torre Del Mar, "Mind" emerges as a hidden gem, delivering a dining experience that gracefully balances between a Michelin mention and the approachable charm of a Bib Gourmand. The restaurant’s minimalist yet welcoming atmosphere sets the stage for an extraordinary culinary journey, guided by a kitchen that clearly values precision, creativity, and respect for local ingredients.

Our tasting menu began with a simple yet sophisticated gesture: fresh olives and locally baked bread served alongside the award-winning Oro Bailén Extra Virgin Olive Oil, renowned for its aromatic intensity and silky texture. This thoughtful introduction hinted at the quality awaiting us.

Culinary Highlights & Wine Pairings:

Scallop Tiradito: A visually stunning opener, this dish combined the delicate sweetness of scallops with cauliflower, hazelnut, apple juice, and a subtle hint of herring. Paired with the elegant Villa Iulia Sauvignon Blanc 2023, the match was vibrant and refreshing, setting a high standard for the meal ahead.

Bluefin Tataki: An absolute standout, the Bluefin Tataki showcased impeccable technique and pristine ingredients. The accompanying Gabriela Manzanilla Pasada en Rama from Sanlúcar de Barrameda was a revelation—arguably the finest pairing we have ever experienced. The wine’s complexity, saline notes, and depth complemented the tataki perfectly, elevating each bite to a remarkable sensory delight. Having dined at celebrated establishments like Geranium and Alchemist, we confidently rank this pairing among the very best.

Gazpachuelo Tom Yum: A bold fusion of Andalusian tradition and Thai inspiration, this dish featured roasted croaker and japonica clam, beautifully elevated by the Rhône red Parallele 45. The wine, with its organic blend of Grenache, Syrah, Marselan, and Carignan, offered a harmonious counterpoint to the dish's aromatic spices, showcasing the chef’s skillful fusion of global flavors.

Iberian Pork Cheek: Tenderly cooked and served alongside roasted celery purée and a rich chocolate-infused jus, this dish was paired with the local Pago El Espino 2022 from Cortijo Los Aguilares in Ronda. The wine’s fruit-forward character and structured tannins provided an ideal backdrop, enhancing the pork's succulent texture and deep, savory notes.

Yuzu Pie: Our meal concluded beautifully with a Yuzu Pie, a dessert that was both refreshing and indulgent. The pairing with Hereditas Moscatel Dulce from Fabio Coullet was a delightful finale—its sweet, sun-kissed notes harmonizing wonderfully with the tartness of the yuzu cream and the airy meringue.

Special mention must also be given to the exceptional quality of the Oro Bailén extra virgin olive oil served with homemade bread— a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to showcasing premium local ingredients.

Mind offers a sophisticated yet accessible gastronomic experience, driven by evident talent and meticulous attention to detail. With its inspired dishes and truly extraordinary wine pairings, Mind is undoubtedly a rising star in Torre Del Mar’s culinary scene and deserves recognition for its dedication to excellence. Highly recommended for those seeking an unforgettable meal that blends innovation, flavor, and impeccable...

What a great find. Out for lunch and gave this restaurant a try, what a very pleasant surprise! Atmosphere is very pleasing, staff very welcoming. The menu offers a well balance of starters, salads, fish, meat, vegetable options and desserts.

The menu reads well and instantly you are intrigued by the chosen words that describes each item, you can't wait, and I'm pleased to say you will not be disappointed. After our order was taking we were giving a cup soup appetizer that was jam packed with flavours to jump start your taste buds. We shared the barrarta salad and the asked for bread to clean up the dressing, we could not get enough of the flavours. For main course we had the goat cannelloni, duck risotto and tuna tataki, once again jam packed with flavours our taste buds were singing for more. Unusual for us to have dessert, but after the delicate flavours we had experienced we had to have more, we were not disappointed, yum, yum.

It's well worth a try, not expensive 5 people 3 courses, wine and coffee all for 175 euros. We can't wait to go back. Treat yourself and enjoy the food, wine and service.

Thank you, we look forward to...

I was very looking forward to visiting this place, but was highly disappointed. At first, I ordered table water with lemon, waiter said ok. Then came back with an already open simple bottle of water, no lemon. He did not ask if this is okay. Waiting time was very long, I think it was longest we had in the whole of Andalusia. Meat and fish quality and aesthetic seemed good, however severely overpriced - small portion with not much addition, just sauce; no special flavour. Staff was not attentive, forgetful with orders and seemed harsh with all the plates and dishes - throwing them around. I understand the place was busy, but for such prices, better etiquette is to be expected. I hope other people get...