La Auténtica Carmela’s Culinary Delights:
Nestled in the heart of the city, adjacent to the awe-inspiring Granada Cathedral, Restaurante La Auténtica Carmela stands as a culinary gem amidst the bustling tourist hub. Contrary to its prime location on a major tourist thoroughfare, this establishment transcends the clichés of a typical tourist trap, boasting a menu crafted from an array of locally sourced Andalusian ingredients.
Beyond the standard lunch and dinner offerings, La Auténtica Carmela extends its hospitality to the early hours with a tempting breakfast menu. Catering to diverse dietary needs, the restaurant prides itself on providing excellent vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring a delightful dining experience for every palate.
Situated in the iconic Jewish quarter of El Realejo, in close proximity to Plaza Nueva and the Granada Cathedral, La Auténtica Carmela distinguishes itself with the most extensive opening hours among its culinary counterparts—welcoming patrons from 8 in the morning until the stroke of midnight.
The ambiance is a harmonious blend of coziness and intimacy, complemented by both summer and winter terraces. La Auténtica Carmela takes a bold approach with its menu, infusing a sense of adventure and playfulness while remaining grounded in the natural essence of the Mediterranean diet. The commitment to quality local produce and the rich tapestry of Andalusian gastronomy is evident in every dish.
Embark on a delectable journey that spans from a delightful breakfast to a sumptuous dinner, with tapas and after-dinner drinks adding the perfect finishing touch. The interior exudes modern sophistication, featuring sleek design elements such as exposed stone walls, purple spotlights, and captivating hand-painted artwork. It’s a visual feast that mirrors the culinary excellence that defines La Auténtica Carmela, making it a destination where aesthetics and gastronomy seamlessly converge for an unforgettable dining experience.
El Claustro:
Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula, El Claustro restaurant offers more than just a dining experience; it’s a journey through time. This captivating establishment, housed in a 14-century Casa Morisco, and the 16th-century Santa Paula Covent seamlessly blends the past with the present, inviting both guests and non-residents to savor the artistry of Renaissance architecture and indulge in an assertive yet simple cuisine with Baroque nuances and textures.
One of the restaurant’s highlights is its setting, originally built in 1540 as a cloister for nuns. The soaring, heavily beamed ceiling and windows that overlook an arcaded courtyard, where nuns once prayed, create an ambiance of authentic tranquility. In the warmer months, the cloister becomes an enchanting outdoor dining space, while in cooler weather, the interior seating provides views of the beautiful courtyard.
While El Claustro is situated within Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula, it welcomes non-residents to experience the charm of its historical surroundings. The convent has retained its original features, including the furniture, preserving the essence of its storied past.
Adding to its allure, the hotel boasts a stunning view of the Generalife gardens within the Alhambra palace grounds. Conveniently located in the heart of old Granada, the hotel allows guests to explore the city’s historic Moorish district, Sacromonte, and the Alhambra, all within a 15-20 minute walk. The 75-room property, originally the Santa Paula Convent, underwent a meticulous restoration that incorporated the main areas of the original building. The restaurant, El Claustro, resides in the ancient cloisters, where gravestones still grace the courtyard during breakfast. The hotel’s public spaces, including a bar in the original library, further showcase the rich history embedded in every corner. This place isn’t just about delicious food; it’s like a tasty time machine! You get to enjoy fantastic meals while soaking in some fascinating history. It’s the best of both worlds.