I n a world of gastronomy in which abuse is often made of affectation and pretence, putting high prices on what is supposed to be ‘creative cuisine’ it is nice to see that restaurants like Restaurante Carmen, situated in Nueva Andalucía, still exist with traditional Mediterranean cooking prepared with great attention to detail.
This recently opened restaurant, under the new management of Manuel Elena and daughter Virginia, bases its appeal on a wise combination of experience in the kitchen, at the hand of chef Juan M. Perea, and young, perfect service in which the touch of class of the Swiss Catering School of Les Roches is noticeable.
You can add Restaurante Carmen to your list of favourite restaurants in Marbella, because this category is more than justified by simply sampling their delicious cuisine based on dishes made with exceptional products and with love, such as red tuna tartare on a bed of lambs’ lettuce, crispy chicken in bitter orange and honey, or beef carpaccio with slivers of Parmesan. Their rice dishes are worthy of special mention, and also the ultra-fresh fish such as turbot with mushrooms and king prawns, and monkfish with clams and prawns, or their meat dishes such as beef from Galicia, or lamb, amongst other delicacies. The decoration is reminiscent of an Andalusian family atmosphere that makes you feel very at home, and which in summer is complemented by a magnificent terrace.