When in Valencia, the birthplace of paella, one must go to the BEST place to taste it for real. Right? Sure, there are hundreds of places offering "original" paella and many tourists fall for those glitzy pictures on the sidewalk signs. But not me. I asked a lifetime resident, a food aficionado, a trusted source for his favorite. He was quick with a response and didn't even have to think about it. Casa Cesar. Situated back from the sea front away from those "in your face" restaurants capitalizing on proximity to the beach with high visibility, you really need to look hard to find this place. Even the taxi driver drove by it twice! But you need to find it. It's ridiculous.
Greeted by the owner (?) who gave every single table attention and an explanation of how this meal works. No menu. Fixed price. 3 appetizers (unreal - and oh my, those cockles?), unlimited wine and beer, seafood paella featuring fresh that day fish, shrimp and assorted seafood, dessert, and a choice of after dinner drink. Everything was remarkable but that paella? OMG! Cooked slowly to order, the flavors were full and divine. The crispy black edges of the rice were exactly as they should be. I've had paella in many places in Spain but this? Best ever? Yes indeed. Best ever. Service was friendly, atmosphere delightful, value incredible. Yep. Pricing was €28 per person. Go ahead. Re-read what you get for that. But you know, I would have gladly paid twice that and been happy. Wow. I'm still dreaming of this meal. read more