El Faro

hollowlegs

Lovely 14th August 2008

1 found this helpful

We came here on Valentine's evening, which perhaps isn't the best time to visit a restaurant for the first time - nevertheless, El Faro treated us well.

There were many starters that we wanted to try, and nothing on the mains list that particularly stood out, so we just got a selection of starters to share.

The Jamon de Jabugo was delicious. The fat was melt-in-the-mouth and so tasty. The ham was sliced to perfect thinness. The tuna tartare marinated in Fino sherry and sesame seeds with rocket was definitely the highlight of the meal. Generously portioned, super-fresh tuna.

The squid was very tender with a lovely accompanying sauce, and the galician octopus came surrounded with a gorgeous, fruity olive oil. Sadly we didn't encounter any hot padron peppers, but they were well cooked - no grease, and well seasoned.

The last two dishes were king prawns in a sizzling dish with plenty of garlic, and confit pork belly cubes with rosemary. The prawns were great - cooked perfectly with a good garlicky hit. The pork cubes were the only dud note of the evening - dry, not enough of the sauce. They could have done with being cooked a touch longer.

The serivice was good - although I was declined when I asked to change table (we were right in the middle of the restaurant) so when you book in advance, ask for a window table or even to sit outside on a nice evening.

All these dishes, 2 glasses of cava, 1 bottle of rioja, and a coffee came to just under £100. Unfortunately we were too stuffed for dessert. Definitely recommended, we will return to try the mains