This restaurant, a block away from the beautiful beach of Torredembarra, an hour south of Barcelona…read moreon the train, is a hidden jewel. The eating area has a lovely comfortable feel, like somebody's large living room who has invited you for dinner. The house specializes in Argentinian beef and Spanish rice and seafood, and it delivers in spades. For starters, we had a huge bowl of simply steamed mussels and an Argentinian beef empanada, all delicious. Main courses were "arroz con mariscos" for two (rice with seafood) and a very delicate Argentinean chuletón, a tender steak that came with perfect potato fries and red peppers. There was a bit left of the rice because the portion was big, which was taken back to the hotel and made for a perfect small dinner! Desserts were the panqueque con dulce de leche and a cheese cake with a fruit sauce, both superb. The cheese cake is not the NYC type, rather the European variety made with ricotta, but just as tasty.
In short, meals at Cal Coco are made with simple ingredients, cooked expertly but without fuss and served piping hot from the kitchen. Service by the family owners is prompt and full of warmth. Both Torredembarra and Cal Coco are a surprising treat if you are in the Barcelona area.
