There are many good quality restaurants in Lanzarote. And the resort of Costa Teguise boasts a high concentration of excellent eateries. Spanning different culinary styles such as French and modern international. But when it comes to the best Spanish cuisine there are few establishments in Costa Teguise, or indeed on the island, that can match the high standards of Meson La Jordana.
This slightly unassuming looking restaurant in Calle Los Geranios is in fact even favoured by royalty. As this is the spot that the King of Spain´s entourage head for when holidaying at the nearby royal residence of Las Maretas. Attracted by the superb range of well-executed traditional Spanish dishes and a professional and discreet level of service. Ingredients that have long been the key to the success of Meson La Jordana. As they have been feeding both locals and appreciative tourists alike for over nineteen years – a long service record that few other restaurants on Lanzarote can match.
The front of house operation is presided over by Meson La Jordana`s popular maitre ‘d, Francisco Fernandez, who previously cut his teeth in the dining room of one of Lanzarote´s finest hotels, The Gran Melia Salinas, some five minutes away from his current restaurant.
Francisco originally hails from a small whitewashed village in Andalusia, but has been a resident of the island for many years. Working in close tandem with his Galician head chef and business partner Juan Duarte.
The restaurant’s name has been taken from a small fountain in a corner of Francisco’s home town, Puente del Obispo, where the locals used to meet around this natural water spring – called La Jordana – and while away the afternoons in conversation.
The extensive menu at Meson La Jordana displays a similar affinity with tradition – always featuring a range of seasonal specialities with an emphasis on top quality meat and game dishes – such as Jabali (wild boar), suckling pig and partridge. As well as some of the freshest fish around, prepared in an array of different styles.
There are also number of Canarian staples available – such as Gambas al ajillo (Garlic prawns) and Pimientos Padrón (Green peppers). And whilst you will find these cropping up on many a menu across the island few are capable of executing them to this standard. Other starters include an excellent homemade paté and wild mushrooms cooked in garlic.
As well as the aforementioned fish, meat and game choices other main course signature dishes include rabbit in a red wine sauce, lamb cutlets and a fine array of beef cuts. Whilst the fresh fish of the day usually encompasses local favourites such as Sama, Cherne and Vieja.
Abdon, the head waiter, specialises in flambé, so if you have a sweet tooth or like crepes, you should indulge yourself and give him a chance to show off his skills. As – in true old school fashion – your selection will be prepared for you tableside.
The restaurant has four distinct seating areas, including the bar and is decorated in a down to earth, traditional style. The wine list is also as extensive as the menu and is particularly strong on Spanish reds, featuring a number of labels from the renowned Ribero del Duero region of Spain. The restaurant also stocks a very good Cava – called Juve y Camps, which is an excellent value alternative to champagne.
Despite the high quality of both food and service Meson La Jordana is still pretty affordable. With entrees priced from €6 and main dishes from €12 upwards. Expect to pay somewhere in the region of €60-€80 per couple, depending on your appetite and your thirst.
To find the restaurant, you can either locate it close to Playa Bastian – it is at the far end of the street which is directly opposite the main Playa Bastian entrance (Calle Los Geranios). Or if you are driving in from Arrecife, the restaurant is next door to the estate agents, Location, who have an office on the corner of the main dual carriageway as you enter Costa Teguise.
Fact File
Reservations : 928 590 328
Open : 12.30-16.00 & 18.30 – 12.00 daily, closed Sunday
Address : Calle Los Geranios, close to the Lanzarote Bay Hotel
