Los Llaureles Restaurante and Rural Hotel is a hidden jewel near Asturias (Spain) that is well worth a detour or even a special trip. Located in rural green hills, the exquisitely-restored and tastefully decorated farmhouse immediately impresses the guest. The owners are welcoming and attentive...to any need. The accommodations are private, comfortable, relaxing, clean and the decor includes local art and charm.
Restaurant meals are by reservation only, which is easily accomplished along with the room reservation or independently. Email or phone reservations are answered promptly and great care is taken to learn of any health issues or allergies. Diners may choose their own meal times to suit their own schedule. With only one table seating per meal in the intimate dining room, diners are never rushed and can linger over the delicious food.
My husband enjoyed the chef's spring tasting menu. Seated comfortably next to a blazing fireplace, we enjoyed watching daylight turn to evening with a view of nearby horse pastures and hillside forests as our dining adventure unfolded. Chef Carlos Gallegos and his staff presented course after course of imaginative, beautiful and delicious food featuring local specialties of the season paired with wines. Some of the courses included homemade potato chips drizzled with chocolate and anise, marmalade of jamon, spinach and strawberry salad, tuna with avocado sauce, skewered coconut shrimp with dipping sauce, seafood crepes, seafood soup with melon and shrimp. The food was not only delicious, it was a visual work of art. Each course seemed to exceed our building expectations. When we were completely sated and thought we could not eat one more bite, we were tempted by a delectable dessert. The menu changes with the season and special event menus are offered throughout the year.
The chef prepares the food in a spotless, modern kitchen filled with windows. Guests can view kitchen preparations from the adjoining view deck while sipping an afternoon glass of wine.
The food is not served with a stuffy or condescending attitude. Chef Carlos prepares the ultimate of fine dining and he serves it with the genuine desire that his guests relax and enjoy their meal. We could feel his love and his passion in the food as we ate.
I have eaten in upscale restaurants and aboard 6-star cruise ships around the world. I have never eaten such a beautifully presented, delicious meal in my life. I learned of Los Llaureles Restaurante and Rural Hotel from a personal recommendation and now I look forward to my next opportunity for a longer visit.More
