La Pilareta in Valencia truly stands out as a gem in the culinary landscape. From the moment you step into this charming eatery, you're enveloped by an authentic Mediterranean vibe that promises a memorable dining experience.
The fried calamares here are nothing short of spectacular. They strike the perfect balance between crispy and tender, making each bite a delight. Similarly, the Grilled Cuttlefish is a testament to the kitchen's mastery over seafood, grilled to perfection with just the right char and a smoky flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the cuttlefish.
Don't miss out on their potatoes; they're a simple dish done exceptionally well - crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful inside. The mussels are another highlight, fresh, succulent, and served with a preparation that enhances their natural briny taste without overpowering it.
The atmosphere at La Pilareta matches the quality of the food. It's unpretentious yet inviting, reflecting the vibrant yet relaxed spirit of Valencia. The service is warm and attentive, adding to the overall experience, making you feel like you're dining with friends.
If you're planning a revisit, you're in for another treat as the menu, while rooted in traditional Valencian cuisine, always seems to have something new or a seasonal twist that keeps dining here exciting. La Pilareta isn't just a meal; it's an experience that beckons you to come back for more. Highly recommended for anyone looking to savor the essence of...
Read moreRead Ramia Chaoui's review if you can find it. An attempted english summary of her (visibly Muslim) family's experience: the restaurant staff made it clear in their demeanour they didn't want her and her family there, giving them looks and requesting that they sit outside (in winter and against their wishes. The restaurant also had seats available indoors). They eventually used the excuse of a covid vaccine for a child that was with her, who by law did not need to be vaccinated, given that her age group had JUST started receiving their vaccinations and her appointment hadn't reached yet. Ramia requested evidence for this regulation, which of course they could not give, since it was not a regulation at all. Ramia's sister also explained that when she complained to a waiter, he said something along the lines of "we have non-white staff", of which none were visible, so they may have been hidden in the kitchen. He also said something along the lines of "you should have been here this morning" with a smirk, which they assumed was a hint that in the morning the bar was frequented by far...
Read moreThis place has hands down the BEST POTATO BRAVAS in Valencia! Katarina was our server yesterday. This was a return visit and we ended up taking two servings of the Potato Bravas for a party of four. Their aioli is great, and the tomato sauce is SO GOOD, that we ask for a serving on the side. The drinks are also great, according to two people in our group who had them. The house drink/wine or whatever it’s called is a vermouth I think. It was so good that the person took seconds! The sangria is good, but it’s the house wine that is the star!
This bar has been open since 1917, so over a hundred years. No wonder, it’s a beautiful interior- a cross between a pub and a really lovely bar. Beautiful tikes, even in the bathrooms. The toilets, a flight of 9 steps up, including a little landing, are clean and conveniently big, unlike many popular places.
It’s the food you’ll go back for- oyster fritters, beans, a fish tapas and …...
Read more