b-served Gastronomy
El jardín del Alma
Un jardín de delicias
The phenomenon of gastronomic restaurants being accommodated within city centre hotels in Barcelona is well established. The symbiotic relationship of good food and beautiful surroundings is a perfect combination of aesthetic and culinary pleasures. Few Barcelona restaurants however can boast the privileged surroundings of El Jardín del Alma, located on the ground floor and garden of the Alma hotel in the heart of the Eixample, within one of the city’s most spectacular interior gardens. The changing backdrop of the seasons and the plants reflect a cuisine that also takes its inspiration from the seasonal ingredients sourced locally from around the Mediterranean.
The emphasis here is on simplicity, knowing what not to do with the ingredients as much as what to do. In order to conserve the innate flavours and qualities of the raw ingredients prepared by chef Gio Esteve. One of the unusual features of El Jardín is the personal attention from Esteve who not only conceives and prepares the dishes but also brings them to the table and explains the concepts, ingredients and cooking methods. The Jardín del Alma’s French born chef is a creative professional who has more than 17 years experience working in some of the world’s most famous, including ‘El Bulli’. Over the years he has established a loyal clientele among locals who appreciate quality and creativity as well as value for money.
-
View of the Alma courtyard and garden, with its luscious planting
-
Cod confit, romesco and fresh spinach
Here creativity and taste are expertly combined to satisfy Two of the unmissable dishes on the recently introduced spring menu are the Habas a la catalana (Catalan broad beans) as well as the Arroz de alcachofas con sepionetas (Artichoke with rice broth and baby sepia). Both dishes are dominated by seasonal ingredients and the taste of fresh.
-
Beef tenderloin with grilled girgola flower and beetroot
-
Raf tomato salad from Almería with smoked caballita and capers
-
White asparagus with toast and iberico ham
Another of the innovative aspects is the ‘Tasting Menu’ which is designed to be enjoyed equally during the day or the evening and includes three starter dishes. A fast paced lunch option to impress business colleagues, or to be savoured at a more relaxed pace in the evening.
-
Brownie with vanilla ice-cream
-
- El jardín del Alma
- Carrer de Mallorca, 271
- 08008 Barcelona
- Telf: 932 16 44 90
- http://almahotels.com/barcelona