Restaurant of the Month

La Beltraneja

Located in a lovely restored mansion on a bustling street corner in Itzimna, La Beltraneja features authentic Spanish cuisine in a soothing, contemporary décor. Just a few months old, it is a welcome international addition to Merida’s ever growing restaurant scene. Residents and tourists will enjoy that La Beltraneja offers a gastronomic tour of Spain right in our own backyard.

First stop, the evocative and well-stocked bar where you can sample the dish that Spain is most famous for: tapas. Tapas are appetizers that can be eaten as a snack, a starter or your entire meal. Tapas are a social ritual: meet your friends for cocktails and tapas, or stop by after the cinema or symphony for a glass of wine and…tapas! Nibble your way through a variety of national and imported Chorizos, Chistorra, Serrano Ham and Manchego cheeses. Must try tapas include Warm Serrano Ham Croquettes, pungent Calamari a la Romana, and savory Pork Empanadas. Of course the tapas can also be ordered at the tables in the restaurant.

The traditional Spanish Tortilla, known in Mexico as Torta Espanola, is beautifully prepared at La Beltraneja by their Spanish chef. The classic tortilla is made with egg, onion, potato and green pepper. La Beltraneja also offers variations made with your choice of garlic, parsley, bell pepper, shrimp or chorizo.

Soup lovers will enjoy the hot and hearty Spanish classics: Castillian Lentil, Fabada,

Do you have room for the main course? Of course you do! Not for the faint hearted is the Cochinilla, which is roasted baby pig, served by the quarter, half or whole pig as well as in single portion sizes. The fish entrees are a lighter choice, such as Fish in Cheese, Shrimp in Habanero and Tequila, Salmon Meuniere and Grilled Calamari.

Ah, dessert. Perfect and fresh are the Pears in Wine. For something rich and sweet, you’ll find these creamy Spanish favorites: Catalan Crème, Antilles and Leche Frito. Sharing a plate of Ate with Cheese over coffee is a nice way to end your meal.

The service is friendly and knowledgeable. The bar is well stocked with national and imported wines, beer and spirits. Fine wines are available by the glass and bottle.

La Beltraneja. Calle 21 #107 Colonia Itzimna. Tel: 926 9567. Closed on Mondays. Open Tuesday through Sundays for lunch and dinner, from 12:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Ample parking in their lot and Valet parking available.

Last month's Restaurant of the Month.

To read in Spanish click here