86 Countries and Still Counting: Las Palmas

I relaxed on the ship this morning then got off to get a cab and head to lunch. Several cab drivers seemed confused when I showed them the name and address of the restaurant. But, after much discussion a driver said he could find it. We chatted in Spanglish on the way there. He wanted to take me on a tour but I told him I had a reservation for lunch. He suggested that he join me for lunch and then he would take me on a tour. I buy lunch, and he'd provide a free tour. I thanked him for the offer and told him I didn't think my husband would approve. He said his wife wouldn't either, but they'd never know. I had to laugh. I haven't had to use the "my husband" excuse for years, lol. Gotta love Spanish men.

There were only two people in the small restaurant. There were only five tables, one server and apparently one chef, who was also the owner. The food was creative and delicious. And a bargain. I paid $87 USD, all in. I could not have chosen a better place to celebrate my birthday.

The port info is displayed in the elevators. I'd like it if it was also in the app. Which, BTW, is the best app of the lines I've cruised. Not fabulous but best on the sea.

Getting off the ship for the first time since Barcelona. Love the Resilient Lady.

Many ports have shops. Some have local groups - artisans, etc. Las Palmas was large and empty.

There were three ships in port. And the Kismet, a private yacht.

It was in the 70's and a nice day for a stroll to the taxis. Since I'm lazy, it would have been nice if they let them pick up passengers closer to the port but apparently is a security issue, although they let the taxi drop me off in the restricted port area.

A huge, private yacht. I'll keep my opinions to myself but if you were thinking of getting me one for Christmas, I'm good.

I was going to Vagueta.

The neighborhood where Sonondongo is is one of the oldest in the city. These quiet streets are a bit misleading. There were lots of cafes and people walking.

Simple. I liked the ceramic cutlery holders.

My view.

The first course was an aperitif. Normally, it is coffee with a coriander syrup, lemon, orange, Gin 72, and tonic water. I skipped the gin.

It was cold, which was a surprise. It was also a unique and really enjoyable blend of flavors. I would drink this nightly as an aperitif. It was the perfect way to give a hint of the flavors to come. An excellent start to the meal. On the menu, it is called "A Coffee?"

I didn't use the extra tonic water but wanted to steal the little bottle.

Next came this beautifully presented appetizer, called "Dressed Tomatoes". Chunks of beautifully ripe tomato with two sauces plus other goodies. I remember green tomato juice, coriander and basil were ingredients. It was very fresh and delicious and I could have made a meal out of a big bowl of the tomatoes.

Next came Potage. Based on a local dish (fancified, to be sure), it is spinach with an egg yolk and garbanzo cream. I don't know what the thick brown jus is but it was wonderful.

The server suggested I use a spoon and knife and mix things up. Each bite was a bit different and delicious. Very rich and deep in flavor. I would have licked this plate clean, too, if I was alone.

This is listed as Rice - Mushrooms - Sheep's cheese. A mushroom risotto that was made incredibly rich with a sheep's cheese from a village in Iceland (if I heard her correctly). For me, it was delicious but I found the cheese a bit too salty and rich. Don't get me wrong - I was very happy to eat it all but I have to criticize something.

I saw at least two types of mushrooms and the texture was creamy and perfect.

Fancy still water.

The main course, called Pig - Muddy on the menu - ribs that had been cooked for 12 hours, then shredded, compressed and served with a Canarian mojo rojo sauce and carrot cream. This was another dish I wanted to lick the plate.

A shot of the texture of the ribs. It was a wonderful mix of light/dark with just enough fat to make it the best. The mojo rojo sauce was mildly spiced and flavorful and I'll try making it once I'm home.

Another ceramic spoon prop.

Another OMG dish. The French Toast was the dessert. It was brioche soaked in milk and egg with cinnamon and more, then bruleed. Kinda like a tres leches cake with a sweet crispy top. The dark parts of the brulee gave a delightful bitter caramel note. Speaking of caramel, that's homemade caramel ice cream with an almond crumble.

The second dessert was perfectly bitesized "Petit Four". From the left - a white chocolate thing with lemon and something deliciously crunchy. In the center was chocolate cake with chocolate frosting and a mango jel. I'd have enjoyed a whole plate of these to take home.