Restaurants

Asking for directions to La Bota resulted in an effusive review of this traditional Spanish restaurant from a local. Once we had sat down to a meal here, it was easy to see why. The waiter arrived at the table with a blackboard full of promising specials to complement an already extensive menu. Padrón or ‘russian roulette’ peppers, lightly blackened and salted, stimulated the taste buds for the meal to come. Calamares fritos in a light batter were cooked and seasoned to perfection, requiring nothing more than the wedge of lemon provided with them. The rabbit stew, like all the dishes we opted for, was inexpensive, hearty and well-prepared. Diners during Saturday lunch were a comfortable, lively mix of families, friends and couples – all happily enjoying themselves amid the low-key decor of wooden tables, pale walls, posters, prints and mementos. Stools at the bar allow for passers-by who fancy a light bite and a beer. La Bota is a restaurant that doesn’t need to try too hard; good food, good prices and comfortable surroundings make a winning combination.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2009