Eating out in... Ciudad Quesada

Local Cuisine
As Ciudad Quesada has such a diverse population, it does not have a signature dish as such, although it does deliver a broad spectrum of delicious dishes that reflect its international footprint. Like other parts of the Valencian Region, the local Spanish cuisine relies on the finest, freshest ingredients from the land and sea. You should expect to find a variety of fish and shellfish dishes on the menu, such as salmon, swordfish, hake, sole and panga, with the most popular cooking methods being grilled, baked in salt or in a creamy sauce. Large varieties of seafood, such as lobster and crab are considered a delicacy here and enjoyed in homes throughout the area on Christmas Day, whilst cuttlefish, squid, clams and other shellfish are prepare in stews, soups or other sauces and often served as tapas with bread and ali-oli. The region is also incredibly proud of its rice dishes, the most famous of which being Paella Valenciana, which combines rice, chicken, seafood, green beans, olive oil, saffron and seasoning. Other recipes which use rice as their principle ingredient include “Arroz a banda”, “Arroz al horno” (oven-baked rice), “Arroz negro” (black rice with squid in inky sauce), “Arroz y costra (rice cooked with sausage and beaten eggs then baked in the oven), “Arroz y serranas” (rice with snails) and “Arros amb fesols i naps” which combines a moist rice with mixed beans and turnips. Each dish has a unique texture and flavour and is usually available as a small portion or tapa, or a more substantial plate accompanied by a basket of fresh bread- you may have gathered that the Spanish do not generally shy away from carbs!

Irish Influence
Whilst it has a reputation for housing a glut of British pubs, and even been dubbed “little Britain” by its critics, Quesada has a lot more to offer if you take a closer look. Indeed there are several British and Irish bars which reflect the thriving expat community which inhabit the town, but these are also joined by many Spanish, Argentinean, Hungarian, German, Italian, Scandinavian, Chinese, Thai and Indian establishments giving residents and visitors a great choice when it comes to eating out. One of the most established Bars in Quesada, which also serves as a popular meeting place for the international community is the “Old Don Carlos”, located on Avenida de las Naciones. Whilst the name, nationality of owners and staff, and delicious selection of tapas which are always available here may suggest that this is a Spanish bar, its décor is typical of an Irish pub and the copious pints of Guinness served over the bar each day highlight the theme. There are various seating areas to choose from in accordance with your mood and the weather conditions, including rows of private booths and tables inside, further seating on the covered veranda, and an additional terrace which is always full when the sun is shining. The bar is fully accessible for wheelchair users and child-friendly, with big screen TVs offering full sports coverage and free Wi-Fi for punters. Above the main pub is an “adults only” cocktail lounge called “Cocteleria el Trastero” which is perfect for a quiet nightcap after dinner, or a more intimate date away from the commotion of the main bar. As the name suggests, the bar specializes in all types of delicious cocktails, whilst the liqueur coffees are also highly recommended! Kate from Doña Pepa said that the Don Carlos is by far her favourite pub, and never disappoints. “I often meet friends here for drinks and a few tapas or a toastie at lunchtime. The staff are really friendly and most of them speak English. The kids love it here too, and there are games and a pool table to keep them amused, not to mention the ice cream counter!” Her Husband, Ian added that “Yes it’s a really good bar, one of the best in the area, but I wouldn’t say that it is either Spanish or Irish. The English and Irish breakfasts are not the best and far too pricey, but the tapas are always fresh and plenty of choice. It is one of the busiest, longest serving bars in Quesada so I guess that speaks for itself!”

The Old Don Carlos now has a sister bar, located next door but one, “Cerveceria Don Carlos” which is commonly known as “The New Don Carlos”. In terms of the food and drink available and pricing structure, this is much the same as the original venue, but with a fresher, modern appearance. Part of the attraction of Cerveceria Don Carlos are the self service beer pumps installed on the centre tables, where punters can help themselves to the local Spanish brew, without the need to queue at the bar, and pay their tab on leaving. The bar is particularly aimed at families as there is a fully equipped soft play facility on the second floor, where children are entertained while parents chill out with a quiet drink, or two. The bar offers themed parties, including party food, clowns and other attractions at very reasonable rates.

The last in the Don Carlos group is the “Little Don Carlos”, which is located lower down on Avenida Presidente de la Generalitat, Doña Pepa. This also delivers an Irish theme, and as the name suggests, is on a much smaller scale than the other two. The Little Don Carlos is especially popular for those who wish to escape the bustle of the main street posing a more peaceful, cultured alternative. It shares the same menu as the original Irish Tavern, and offers a spacious sun terrace, which is almost as big as the pub itself!

Dine In Spanish Style
For a truly Spanish experience and fantastic value for money, “Goyos” Restaurant, on Calle Blanca, is hard to beat. The menu carries a Mediterranean theme, featuring a number of popular Spanish dishes, including a delicious paella, and the portions are very generous. The restaurant is also accessible for wheelchair users and child-friendly with high chairs available on request. The Menu of the Day is usually the preferred way to dine here, and includes salad, bread, a starter, main course, dessert, coffee and a complementary liqueur all for just €9.50! Cathy from San Miguel de Salinas said “We regularly dine at Goyos, it is well worth the trip out! The staff are lovely, restaurant always clean and welcoming and we have never had a bad meal here in 5 years! We have also visited during the day and tried the tapas, which are equally delicious.”

“El Tema”, situated on Calle Sola is another great Spanish restaurant, serving lunch and evening meals. Although this is not the cheapest place to dine, the freshness and quality of the food, comprehensive wine list and friendly staff make it one of the town’s most popular eateries. The tapas come highly recommended, a selection of which making an ideal meal to share.

Located within the “Hotel La Laguna Spa & Golf”, in Urbanization Doña Pepa, Restaurante “La Laguna” is the ideal venue for a special occasion. The hotel boats an impressive entrance, ample parking and wheelchair access. The menu is principally Spanish with a few international dishes included and there is a choice of a set Menu of the Day or A La Carte if you prefer. Jan who owns a holiday apartment in Doña Pepa said that “The Laguna restaurant is quite posh but not too pricey considering the hotel and spa location. I have eaten lunchtime snacks and a full evening meals here and never been disappointed. The service may be a bit slow, but that has never bothered me- it’s just the Spanish way, and I am on holiday so in no hurry to be anywhere!”

A Treat for Meat Lovers
Situated on Avenida de las Naciones, “Patagonian Steak House” is quite simply a meat lover’s paradise! Great for lunch or evening meal, the Argentinean steakhouse serves huge portions at realistic prices. There are also a number of delicious vegetarian options available should you prefer. Whilst it is a fairly small venue, seating extends out onto the terrace which is usually the preferred choice on a fine day. It is accessible for wheelchair users and child-friendly, with highchairs available on request. Dan from Quesada said that “We ate at the Patagonian Steak House last weekend. There were seven us in the party, who all had something different and all came away really impressed with the quality and quantity of the food. The service was also faultless. Certainly worth a visit, but I recommend that you book first as it does get very busy, particularly during the summer!”