Lunch at La Barca, Peseo Maritimo, Marbella, January 2018

by Morris Bishop
(San Pedro de Alcantara)

Don’t be put off by the unprepossessing exterior – food wise, this is fine dining, especially, but not exclusively of the fishy variety. We were introduced to La Barca by our sister and brother in law on a blustery cold day and opted to eat on their 40-seater covered terrace with views of the waves smashing into the quay. They have a further two dining rooms each with 60 covers, nicely appointed, with civilised table settings and an incredible enthusiasm for Spanish football, for they must have a t least 100 shirts spread around the place.

It would very hard not to find something to one’s liking from Chef Firmin Lozano’s menu of over 90 items that has 30 starters from which we selected Avocado and prawns with a most intensely flavoured Mari Rose sauce I can recall – a roasted pepper salad – and Manchego Cheese. Of the 30 fish dishes that one would expect find in a restaurant of this level, we chose Turbot, Sole Meuniere and Muscles all were beautifully prepared and cooked, and the freshness was so evident in the taste. A carnivore amongst us had the Lamb Cutlets, one of an octet of meat dishes, and the meal was rounded off by desserts of Apple Strudel, Flan, and strawberry ice cream.

The service by Caesar, our Jovial waiter was exemplary (save his table clearing whilst one of our party was still eating - that should be a no-no) and the knowledgeable Maitra D’ Fernando who made sure our visit was a memorable one, and that left nothing to be desired. Will we return? – can’t wait!

The VS:
La Barca can be found on the Paseo Maritimo, 15, ( between tourist office and the lighthouse, underground Parking in Avenida de Aarias Maldonado (by Parque de la Constitucion, and the restaurant is 300m. south and east. They open every day at midday till late, and during the Summer month from 10:00h. Average 3 course meal with wine 35€. No Menu del dia that I could find. See their multi language menu on www.restaurantelabarca.com Reservations on 952824459 or labarcamarbella@gmail.com

Bishlin Guide marks out of 5
Ambience:4.5
Food:5
Menu:5
Service:4.9
Value:5
O/A:4.7

Please mention to the restaurateur that the restaurant was recommended in the "MarbellaFamilyFun.com" Newsletter. To see even more reviews on the best restaurants in Marbella, check out The Bishlin Guide.