La Biznaga: Oaxaca Restaurant Review
December 2, 2009 by admin
Filed under Vacation Rentals
Alvin Starkman asked:
Alvin Starkman, M.A., LL.B.
It took a reduction in Oaxaca’s tourism and an increase in staff to bring La Biznaga back into my good books. While we never actually stopped patronizing the trendy, relaxed eatery in downtown Oaxaca, the painstakingly slow service coupled with a sometimes snooty attitude of the wait staff was enough to cause us to caution both our house guests and fellow residents. But word does get around, and that, combined with the reality check caused by the social and political unrest in the latter half of 2006 resulting in empty downtown streets (all now long gone) must have caused management to take a step back, re-evaluate, and act. And it’s worked.
The complacent attitude has disappeared. Once again waiters have smiles on their faces and interact with clientele with helpful suggestions, even when serving new faces. The staff complement has significantly increased, and now even includes a school-aged busboy-esque youngster.
Drinks and complimentary seasoned carrot sticks arrive promptly, orders are taken when you’re ready to proceed, with appetizers and main courses arriving without table discussion about how much longer to wait before just picking up and leaving.
And so a testimony to the always consistent quality and presentation of fare, and welcoming ambience, La Biznaga has managed to maintain a following of residents and tourists alike in the face of its earlier seemingly deliberate shortcomings.
The atmosphere is open courtyard, with a fashionable retractable roof protecting from mid-day sun and seasonal rains; tables and chairs are wood, á la simplicity of arts-and-crafts vogue, comfort enhanced by wicker seats and backs; a selection of palms willows off to one side, with tall leafy tree mid-court; the bar by design provides a focal point given that its selections are contained on an overhead blackboard; and a rotating selection of gallery art graces the walls. Music is most often jazz, but eclectically ranges off to other similar genres, thereby maintaining an air of coolness in the beatnik sense of the term.
Enormous chalkboards, one at either end of the restaurant, contain the menu selections, print somewhat cryptic … interesting to say the least. Be sure to bring your glasses, or strain your eyes over the tables of others, or simply get up and walk closer to the cartes du jour and you’ll be fine. On the other hand, our experience over the past three years has been that one cannot go too far wrong choosing blindly. Appetizers, soups and salads range from about 35 – 100 pesos, and entrées (meat, fish or fowl) come in at 65 to 200.
La Biznaga is known for its cocktails, and in particular its margaritas and mojitos, served as in the case with all other beverages, in classic Mexican blue accented thick hand-blown glassware (vidrio soplado). The mezcals are also noteworthy for the selections offered. Pretty well all of the bar servings are healthy, and prices across the board are competitive, mezcals beginning at, get this, 15 pesos.
But we’re here for dinner. La Silvestre is a mushroom soup, more in the nature of a light broth devoid of dairy, containing a selection of wild hongos including setas, along with bacon, onion and chile poblano … a must for toadstool enthusiasts. Rarely does a visit go by when I won’t indulge.
Las Calendas is a starter worthy of selection. While described as tamales, there is no corn, but rather squash blossom and melted string cheese (quesillo) enveloped with tender hierba santa leaf, an herb with a distinct taste used in preparation of many Oaxacan dishes yet not often enough as a single flavor source. You’re apt to recall, “so that’s the exquisite essence I’ve been enjoying all this trip.” The triptych is presented with sides of refried beans and diced spiced tomato, and topped with a drizzle of cream. Another worthy triumvirate is the Cerro Viejo, crunchy fried tortilla horns stuffed with seasoned sautéed hibiscus (jamaica) flower, presented with a center of guacamole crowned with chipotle peppers. It would be a mistake to not share each of these two tasters.
The grilled salmon is served over a bed of cilantro pesto, with lightly dressed side salad comprised of select lettuce, tomato and pineapple wedges which, together with pine nuts in the entrée provide complimentary crunches. The tuna, similar to the salmon in terms of a good sized serving prepared to the exact degree of doneness as demanded, arrives on a sea of avocado salsa and is topped with pico de gallo, a flavorful traditional combination of tomato, radish, cucumber, onion, chile and cilantro, with an added tang of lime. Finally, my own entrée on this outing consists of four filets of chicken ****** each wrapped around a piece of cooked plantain with just enough walnut crumbles to be detected and welcomed, presented on a platter of puréed guava set off with swirls of cream.
The distinctive flavors one has just experienced almost call out for further indulgence, and thus dessert is difficult to neglect: on this evening healthy scoops of pistachio sorbet (nieve) are served in a margarita schooner, and chocolate truffle-cake (trufa) floats on a strawberry coulis.
It’s indeed a rarity for a restaurant to exhibit this level of consistency in quality of cuisine. Now if La Biznaga can only maintain a degree of humility translating into value-added service, there’s no stopping its continued success, nor reason for patrons to ever again hesitate stopping by.
La Biznaga, Garcia Vigil 512, Centro Histórico, Oaxaca (tel: 516-1800)
Alvin Starkman, M.A., LL.B.
It took a reduction in Oaxaca’s tourism and an increase in staff to bring La Biznaga back into my good books. While we never actually stopped patronizing the trendy, relaxed eatery in downtown Oaxaca, the painstakingly slow service coupled with a sometimes snooty attitude of the wait staff was enough to cause us to caution both our house guests and fellow residents. But word does get around, and that, combined with the reality check caused by the social and political unrest in the latter half of 2006 resulting in empty downtown streets (all now long gone) must have caused management to take a step back, re-evaluate, and act. And it’s worked.
The complacent attitude has disappeared. Once again waiters have smiles on their faces and interact with clientele with helpful suggestions, even when serving new faces. The staff complement has significantly increased, and now even includes a school-aged busboy-esque youngster.
Drinks and complimentary seasoned carrot sticks arrive promptly, orders are taken when you’re ready to proceed, with appetizers and main courses arriving without table discussion about how much longer to wait before just picking up and leaving.
And so a testimony to the always consistent quality and presentation of fare, and welcoming ambience, La Biznaga has managed to maintain a following of residents and tourists alike in the face of its earlier seemingly deliberate shortcomings.
The atmosphere is open courtyard, with a fashionable retractable roof protecting from mid-day sun and seasonal rains; tables and chairs are wood, á la simplicity of arts-and-crafts vogue, comfort enhanced by wicker seats and backs; a selection of palms willows off to one side, with tall leafy tree mid-court; the bar by design provides a focal point given that its selections are contained on an overhead blackboard; and a rotating selection of gallery art graces the walls. Music is most often jazz, but eclectically ranges off to other similar genres, thereby maintaining an air of coolness in the beatnik sense of the term.
Enormous chalkboards, one at either end of the restaurant, contain the menu selections, print somewhat cryptic … interesting to say the least. Be sure to bring your glasses, or strain your eyes over the tables of others, or simply get up and walk closer to the cartes du jour and you’ll be fine. On the other hand, our experience over the past three years has been that one cannot go too far wrong choosing blindly. Appetizers, soups and salads range from about 35 – 100 pesos, and entrées (meat, fish or fowl) come in at 65 to 200.
La Biznaga is known for its cocktails, and in particular its margaritas and mojitos, served as in the case with all other beverages, in classic Mexican blue accented thick hand-blown glassware (vidrio soplado). The mezcals are also noteworthy for the selections offered. Pretty well all of the bar servings are healthy, and prices across the board are competitive, mezcals beginning at, get this, 15 pesos.
But we’re here for dinner. La Silvestre is a mushroom soup, more in the nature of a light broth devoid of dairy, containing a selection of wild hongos including setas, along with bacon, onion and chile poblano … a must for toadstool enthusiasts. Rarely does a visit go by when I won’t indulge.
Las Calendas is a starter worthy of selection. While described as tamales, there is no corn, but rather squash blossom and melted string cheese (quesillo) enveloped with tender hierba santa leaf, an herb with a distinct taste used in preparation of many Oaxacan dishes yet not often enough as a single flavor source. You’re apt to recall, “so that’s the exquisite essence I’ve been enjoying all this trip.” The triptych is presented with sides of refried beans and diced spiced tomato, and topped with a drizzle of cream. Another worthy triumvirate is the Cerro Viejo, crunchy fried tortilla horns stuffed with seasoned sautéed hibiscus (jamaica) flower, presented with a center of guacamole crowned with chipotle peppers. It would be a mistake to not share each of these two tasters.
The grilled salmon is served over a bed of cilantro pesto, with lightly dressed side salad comprised of select lettuce, tomato and pineapple wedges which, together with pine nuts in the entrée provide complimentary crunches. The tuna, similar to the salmon in terms of a good sized serving prepared to the exact degree of doneness as demanded, arrives on a sea of avocado salsa and is topped with pico de gallo, a flavorful traditional combination of tomato, radish, cucumber, onion, chile and cilantro, with an added tang of lime. Finally, my own entrée on this outing consists of four filets of chicken ****** each wrapped around a piece of cooked plantain with just enough walnut crumbles to be detected and welcomed, presented on a platter of puréed guava set off with swirls of cream.
The distinctive flavors one has just experienced almost call out for further indulgence, and thus dessert is difficult to neglect: on this evening healthy scoops of pistachio sorbet (nieve) are served in a margarita schooner, and chocolate truffle-cake (trufa) floats on a strawberry coulis.
It’s indeed a rarity for a restaurant to exhibit this level of consistency in quality of cuisine. Now if La Biznaga can only maintain a degree of humility translating into value-added service, there’s no stopping its continued success, nor reason for patrons to ever again hesitate stopping by.
La Biznaga, Garcia Vigil 512, Centro Histórico, Oaxaca (tel: 516-1800)
Top 10 Lanzarote Restaurant Suggestions
September 4, 2009 by admin
Filed under Vacation Rentals
Becky Oven asked:
There are plenty of good restaurants on the island of Lanzarote but here are my favourites to date.
Almacen De Sal – Situated right on the sea front promenade in the centre of Playa Blanca, this restaurant is my very favourite. This restaurant used to be an old salt repository so has bags of character and charm. The service is second to none as is the cuisine. There is an extensive menu to choose from and I have many favourites on the menu including the onion soup, advocado with prawns, steak, fresh fish, paella, to name but a few. This restaurant also has live piano music and is very child friendly yet also romantic.
Restaurante Playa Quemada – Playa Quemada. We would definately recommend this restaurant if you are prepared to go a little off the beaten track! From Playa Blanca is it just after Yaiza and there is a right turn that takes you down to Playa Quemada. Don’t wear your high heels as the car park leaves a little to be desired! This restaurant serves fabulous food and there is always excellent fresh fish available. Booking is definately advisable.
Mirador de Lobos – Playa Blanca, next door to the entrace of the Natura Palace Hotel. This restaurant is a firm favourite in our family as it is definately child friendly and has an extensive menu. The fresh fish and any specials of the day are worth trying. The staff in this restaurant are really friendly and make you feel very welcome.
Don Camillo – Playa Blanca, on the sea front promenade towards the harbour. Don Camillo offers excellent international cuisine with an extensive menu. There are three different kitchens, including a steak grill and pizzeria. The T-bone steak is wonderful but don’t order it unless you haven’t eaten for a while!
La Era – Yaiza, behind the Town Hall. This restaurant is open all week from 1.00pm till 11.00pm and booking is advisable. La Era is in the lovely little village of Yaiza, set in a 300-year-old farmhouse with gardens, courtyards and outbuildings restored by Cesar Manrique into a fascinating and beautiful place to eat and drink. La Era serves authentic Canarian cuisine as well as International dishes.
La Bocaina – next to the petrol station in Playa Blanca, on the right, travelling toward Playa Blanca. This restaurant has been around for 40 years although now under new ownership. The soups, sauces are all homemade and prepared to order. Therefore do not come to this restaurant if you are in a hurry! First class Cuisine and this restaurant is closed on Mondays.
Restaurante Terraza Case Pedro – Playa Blanca. I would recommend this as an excellent fish restaurant down on the promenade of Playa Blanca. Walk down to the sea front and when you reach the small beach area in front of the restaurants, turn right. You are heading for the green restaurant which is on the corner. Keep walking until you see the restaurant called Restaurante Terraza Casa Pedro. Beware, there is a restaurant next door to it that is also called Restaurant Pedro – make sure you go in the first Pedro restaurant. We thoroughly recommend that you have the ‘fresh fish of the day’ served with canarian potatoes and sauce. This is a lovely evening restaurant, but is also excellent at lunch times, as you can sit out by the sea in the outside eating area. This restaurant is normally closed on Thursdays.
El Bodegon Del Mano – Playa Blanca. This is a superb restaurant for steak. This is a small restaurant run by Chef Jesús Martínex Lebrusán and is excellent. The Chef himself cooks and is the waiter too – he has one assistant helping in the kitchen. It offers a very small but exclusive menu and we thoroughly recommend the steak in pepper sauce, mushroom sauce or chestnut sauce. This is a quiet restaurant, probably not suitable for very young children and is usually closed on Mondays. It is located in the pedestrianised shopping area behind the sea front. Walk past the Marcial Supermarcado and the restaurant is on your right-hand side, not directly after Marcial Supermarcado but the next right. It is situated underneath Restaurant Romantica. It is recommended that you book this restaurant prior to going as it can get very busy.
LagOmar – Oasis de Nazaret – at the top of the village, off the road between Tahiche and Teguise. If you´re looing to dine in dramatic surroundings then LagOmar is hard to beat as this restaurant, serving modern international food, used to be part of former film star Omar Sharif’s home – built into the side of a disused quarry by two German architects in the style of Cesar Manrique.
The menu never seems to change that much but the location itself makes up for that and the quality of cooking is excellent.
Amura – Far end of the marina at Puerto Calero – which is a ten minute taxi journey from Puerto del Carmen. Amura enjoys a great sea front location in the marina at Puerto Calero and offers top quality international cuisine in up market surroundings.
Like many other leading restaurants, Amura has a New Years Eve spectacular planned – which involves fireworks, free bar and live music and dancing. Excellent for a special occasion.
So, please enjoy my top 10 Lanzarote Restaurant suggestions and feel free to try them out for yourselves! I still have many restaurants to try around Lanzarote, but as I am a villa owner in Playa Blanca, I will be in a position to try more as time goes by and then pass on my reviews to the future guests of my Villa.
There are plenty of good restaurants on the island of Lanzarote but here are my favourites to date.
Almacen De Sal – Situated right on the sea front promenade in the centre of Playa Blanca, this restaurant is my very favourite. This restaurant used to be an old salt repository so has bags of character and charm. The service is second to none as is the cuisine. There is an extensive menu to choose from and I have many favourites on the menu including the onion soup, advocado with prawns, steak, fresh fish, paella, to name but a few. This restaurant also has live piano music and is very child friendly yet also romantic.
Restaurante Playa Quemada – Playa Quemada. We would definately recommend this restaurant if you are prepared to go a little off the beaten track! From Playa Blanca is it just after Yaiza and there is a right turn that takes you down to Playa Quemada. Don’t wear your high heels as the car park leaves a little to be desired! This restaurant serves fabulous food and there is always excellent fresh fish available. Booking is definately advisable.
Mirador de Lobos – Playa Blanca, next door to the entrace of the Natura Palace Hotel. This restaurant is a firm favourite in our family as it is definately child friendly and has an extensive menu. The fresh fish and any specials of the day are worth trying. The staff in this restaurant are really friendly and make you feel very welcome.
Don Camillo – Playa Blanca, on the sea front promenade towards the harbour. Don Camillo offers excellent international cuisine with an extensive menu. There are three different kitchens, including a steak grill and pizzeria. The T-bone steak is wonderful but don’t order it unless you haven’t eaten for a while!
La Era – Yaiza, behind the Town Hall. This restaurant is open all week from 1.00pm till 11.00pm and booking is advisable. La Era is in the lovely little village of Yaiza, set in a 300-year-old farmhouse with gardens, courtyards and outbuildings restored by Cesar Manrique into a fascinating and beautiful place to eat and drink. La Era serves authentic Canarian cuisine as well as International dishes.
La Bocaina – next to the petrol station in Playa Blanca, on the right, travelling toward Playa Blanca. This restaurant has been around for 40 years although now under new ownership. The soups, sauces are all homemade and prepared to order. Therefore do not come to this restaurant if you are in a hurry! First class Cuisine and this restaurant is closed on Mondays.
Restaurante Terraza Case Pedro – Playa Blanca. I would recommend this as an excellent fish restaurant down on the promenade of Playa Blanca. Walk down to the sea front and when you reach the small beach area in front of the restaurants, turn right. You are heading for the green restaurant which is on the corner. Keep walking until you see the restaurant called Restaurante Terraza Casa Pedro. Beware, there is a restaurant next door to it that is also called Restaurant Pedro – make sure you go in the first Pedro restaurant. We thoroughly recommend that you have the ‘fresh fish of the day’ served with canarian potatoes and sauce. This is a lovely evening restaurant, but is also excellent at lunch times, as you can sit out by the sea in the outside eating area. This restaurant is normally closed on Thursdays.
El Bodegon Del Mano – Playa Blanca. This is a superb restaurant for steak. This is a small restaurant run by Chef Jesús Martínex Lebrusán and is excellent. The Chef himself cooks and is the waiter too – he has one assistant helping in the kitchen. It offers a very small but exclusive menu and we thoroughly recommend the steak in pepper sauce, mushroom sauce or chestnut sauce. This is a quiet restaurant, probably not suitable for very young children and is usually closed on Mondays. It is located in the pedestrianised shopping area behind the sea front. Walk past the Marcial Supermarcado and the restaurant is on your right-hand side, not directly after Marcial Supermarcado but the next right. It is situated underneath Restaurant Romantica. It is recommended that you book this restaurant prior to going as it can get very busy.
LagOmar – Oasis de Nazaret – at the top of the village, off the road between Tahiche and Teguise. If you´re looing to dine in dramatic surroundings then LagOmar is hard to beat as this restaurant, serving modern international food, used to be part of former film star Omar Sharif’s home – built into the side of a disused quarry by two German architects in the style of Cesar Manrique.
The menu never seems to change that much but the location itself makes up for that and the quality of cooking is excellent.
Amura – Far end of the marina at Puerto Calero – which is a ten minute taxi journey from Puerto del Carmen. Amura enjoys a great sea front location in the marina at Puerto Calero and offers top quality international cuisine in up market surroundings.
Like many other leading restaurants, Amura has a New Years Eve spectacular planned – which involves fireworks, free bar and live music and dancing. Excellent for a special occasion.
So, please enjoy my top 10 Lanzarote Restaurant suggestions and feel free to try them out for yourselves! I still have many restaurants to try around Lanzarote, but as I am a villa owner in Playa Blanca, I will be in a position to try more as time goes by and then pass on my reviews to the future guests of my Villa.
