Santillana del Mar: Top 5 Food & Drink Destinations
Santillana del Mar, sometimes referred to as the town of three lies since it’s neither saintly (santa), flat (llana), nor by the sea (del mar), is so a historical treasure in Cantabria, Spain. Its cobbled streets and golden-stone buildings just ooze history. Walking through the town is almost like stepping back in time. And the food? Well, the food is as captivating as the setting. With that, I am ready to show you the top five spots where you are able to tickle your taste buds and quench your thirst.
1. Casa Quevedo: A Classic Cantabrian Treat
Casa Quevedo just stands as a testament to traditional Cantabrian cuisine. The restaurant itself, a beautiful old stone building, welcomes you with a warm and inviting ambiance. It almost feels like you’re eating in somebody’s charming old home, as a matter of fact. And the food is nothing short of spectacular. That being said, the Rabas, those crispy fried squid, are simply delightful. They’re like little bites of seaside sunshine. I recommend also sampling the Cocido Montañés, a hearty mountain stew that will warm you from the inside out. Arguably, it’s comfort food perfected.
So, what makes Casa Quevedo such a great spot? Its commitment to quality ingredients and recipes that are handed down through generations is definitely something. The service is warm, and the staff treats you like you’re part of the family, basically. And the setting? It’s picture-perfect. Try to get a seat on the terrace if the weather permits. Therefore, you’re able to people-watch as you enjoy your food.
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2. Restaurante Los Blasones: Fine Dining with a View
Los Blasones is where you go, in case you’re in the mood for something a little more upscale. Los Blasones offers fine dining with beautiful views of Santillana del Mar. It’s just a stunning restaurant, featuring elegant décor and a sophisticated atmosphere. In a way, it’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. First, the food is exquisite. The chefs just use locally sourced ingredients to create inventive dishes that taste just as good as they look. Now, I would recommend the seafood, which is so fresh and prepared to perfection.
But that is not it at all. What truly sets Los Blasones apart is the panoramic view from the restaurant. That is, you are able to enjoy your meal while gazing out over the picturesque town. In a way, it’s an unforgettable experience. The service is spot-on, just making sure that every detail is taken care of. If you are trying to impress someone, that’s your place.
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3. La Taberna de la Gloria: Tapas and Good Times
If you are after a lively atmosphere and tasty tapas, La Taberna de la Gloria is just your place. As a matter of fact, it’s a popular spot among locals and tourists. What’s special? It offers a wide variety of tapas. From patatas bravas to croquetas, each dish is bursting with flavor. So, you are able to sample a little bit of everything. Try the local cider, as well, which complements the tapas perfectly.
And then comes the vibe. La Taberna de la Gloria is just buzzing with energy. People are talking, laughing, and enjoying themselves, seemingly. That alone, makes it a great spot to soak up the local culture and meet new people. It is perfect for a casual evening with friends. You should find it pretty good.
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4. Gran Duque: Charming Cafe with Sweet Treats
Gran Duque is almost a charming cafe that you won’t be able to resist if you have a sweet tooth. It is positioned in the heart of Santillana del Mar. First, the cafe is almost inviting. So, you can relax and enjoy a coffee and pastry. Their selection of cakes and pastries is really impressive. Everything is baked fresh daily. Sample the local specialty, soart cake with almond icing. It is delightful, actually.
And if you are someone who loves coffee, Gran Duque won’t dissapoint. The coffee is perfectly brewed. This makes it an awesome place to take a break from sightseeing and people-watch. The ambiance is sweet. It makes this cafe stand out and a lovely stop in your journey.
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5. Hotel Santillana: A Culinary Experience
Located within a beautiful historic building, the Hotel Santillana features a restaurant. Basically, the spot offers not just comfort but also an authentic culinary trip. Their menu displays local dishes with an amazing twist, applying the finest ingredients that the region offers. Meaning, that dishes such as fresh seafood and meat from local farms will tickle the palate.
Yet the charm of dining there just stands on its setting. Hotel Santillana features architecture and classy interiors. The ambiance sets the tone, is that a nice dinner or a cozy lunch. Top-tier is their wine, that enhances your culinary trip. To summarize it all: Hotel Santillana brings fine dining. Either as guest or not, this trip must be noted.
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