We made a reservation several days in advance for dinner at El Área, a restaurant located at kilometer 8.5 of La Manga del Mar Menor (Murcia), and the experience was simply unforgettable. When they mentioned on their website that we were celebrating our anniversary, they prepared a round table decorated like a wedding: tablecloth, salve, glasses, cutlery, and themed details. An unexpected and very emotional gesture that made us feel special.
Dinner began with a tinto de verano (summer red wine) and continued with a Ribera del Duero red wine, highly recommended by the waitress. For starters, the octopus leg with potatoes and sauce was tender and well-cooked, and the Iberian pork loin bao buns with foie gras were tasty, although they would have been perfect with a little more meat.
The main courses—beef tenderloin and Iberian pork loin with foie gras—grilled and accompanied by sliced potatoes and homemade tomato sauce, stood out for their intense flavor and juiciness. My favorite: the sirloin steak. For dessert, the brownie with ice cream and cream was a delight: more compact than usual, with crunchy caramel chips, an original version that I loved.
Impeccable service, especially by Juan, who was very professional. Price: €50 per person, more than justified by the quality, views of the Mar Menor and Isla del Barón, and the atmosphere.
The restaurant has a terrace on the promenade, right next to the beach, is accessible via ramps, and accepts cards and cash. They have vegetarian and gluten-free options.
A minor negative: we saw cockroaches in the sand on the beach (outside the restaurant's control).
I recommend booking in advance in summer and arriving early: parking is difficult.
Ideal for romantic dinners, celebrations, or with friends. We will definitely return.