Venta Garcia
Tucked away at the top of a mountain in Casares, ‘Venta Garcia’ is an Ibizan-inspired villa steeped in history, yet at the same time modernised, so you have antiquity and luxury in one visit.
You can choose to eat out on the terrace, conservatory or main indoor restaurant. All the dining areas have enormous windows so you enjoy totally unspoilt views of the beautiful Casares countryside. There is also a calm and serene atmosphere to match.
You must arrive early as there is a fantastic bar with low-level seating and chill-out music with which to enjoy ‘Venta Garcia’’s wide selection of cocktails or wines before dining.
The staff are friendly and attentive without being overbearing. If you are lucky enough to meet Jesus, the owner, you are in for a treat. He is funny, charismatic and welcoming all at once. He laughs and jokes with his customers and makes you feel completely at home.
Not surpassing the location and atmosphere, the food is also to die for. Rich, yet healthy mountain food, in generous portions with sides of fresh vegetables to accompany. Try the leg of lamb or chicken cooked ‘Mama style’. There is also a vast selection of fresh fish available such as the scallops and skewer of monkfish with lime sauce, as well as pasta, risotto and soups if you want to try something different. If you want to go for a lighter option the goat’s cheese and avocado salad is fantastic.
One of the best dishes has to be the starter of prawns wrapped in filo pastry with fresh basil. You can choose from an orange marmalade or peanut dipping sauce. Can’t decide? Then go for the mezze of tapas sharing platter.
If you have room for dessert we highly recommend the hot chocolate fondant with ice cream or apple crumble.
And as always ‘Venta Garcia’ treats its guests to a drink on the house at the end of the evening and you are encouraged to enjoy this at your table or move to the bar afterwards.
Children are also welcome here with special child-friendly dishes, including meatballs and chicken croquettes they’ll love. There is definitely a complete mix of clientele here from all nationalities, ages and walks of life – which in our opinion makes ‘Venta Garcia’ even more appealing.
Another main reason for this restaurant’s enduring success has to be its history. Run by Jesus’ family for over 50 years, and apart from the interior, white-walled makeover in 2005, the restaurant hasn’t really changed over time. If anything it has got better and better according to its faithful regulars.
Which brings us to another point. Despite its capacity of 90 sit-downs, you’d be well advised to make a reservation here in the busy summer months as this has been and will continue to be one of the most popular location restaurants on the Costa del Sol. Jesus never advertises: “There is no need to,” he says. Luckily Marbella Rocks has brought this wonderful Casares secret to your attention.
‘Venta Garcia’ is open for lunch and dinner everyday and is located on the Carretera MA 8300 Km 7 E, 29690. For reservations please call +34 952 894 191.
