Viloriens Restaurant – Rojales

December 2010 – Beautifully set among the orange groves between Guardamar and Rojales this finca- style restaurant has alwys been one of our favourites although I have to admit we seldom visit. So when Jackie & Steve suggested we go somewhere different for our annual soiree we took the opportunity to book a table for the Sunday before Christmas. Needless to say the place was packed, Sunday dinner has become a bit of a must-do for expats during the past couple of years, I guess because stiff competition has shoved the prices down a lot.

Personally I am not a huge fan of catered Sunday lunch, preferring to eat mine at home in front of a log fire, but sometimes its just the ticket when you can´t face the washing up or just fancy a change of scenery. As usual we got lost on the way but we still turned up almost an hour early, but nevertheless we were welcomed and recognised (always a good sign), and shown to our table straight away.

The set price Sunday roast menu at 7.95€ gives you a choice  of rump of beef, breast of turkey, leg of lamb or a combi of all three, all served with real roast potatoes, fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. If you aren´t in the mood for roast dinner there are other choices including salmon fillet, liver and bacon, pork steak or for veggies there´s a spicy lentil and potato ragout. We all opted for the roast dinner which came piping hot and was absolutely delicious, the best I have had at a restaurant and almost as good as a home-cooked job. Yes it was that good!! The secret is everything is fresh, no frozen spuds or veg here… All washed down with an excellent house red at a decent price.

As it was a special occasion we opted for starters as well, which change from week to week and costs extra from 3.95€. Choices for our visit included salmon & prawn cocktail, chilli nachos, sardines & ali oli, duck & port parfait, melon & kiwi or soup of the day. We all had different and everything was excellent.

If (and its a big “if”) you have room for dessert there is a choice of classics all at 4.25€ including apple pie & custard, banoffee pie, cheesecake, tiramisu, chocolate fudge cake…you know the drill. We sampled the apple pie, cheesecake and choc fudge cake between us. You guessed it..delicious!

Service throughout was prompt, friendly and attentive and, because it was full of happy eaters, the ambience was just what you need for a relaxing, feel-good winter afternoon. The owners and staff are proud of their restaurant and it shows. In summer there is a covered outdoor terrace as well as a small patio for those who just want a bit of light refreshment away from it all in the heart of the Spanish countryside. Our overall verdict? Superb..go there!  During the week they also offer 3-course Menu del Dia for 12.50€ and Menu del Noche for 19.50€, both include a drink. You will need to book though if you want to be sure of a table. Call 966 712 263/222