Culinary Extravaganza: Melia Villaitana’s Superb Food and Service Delights
How many of you read reviews or watch videos on social media about culinary disasters during package holidays? Do you remember my recent experience at Melia Durres ?(watch one of the video reports by clicking here https://youtu.be/C5eJ5cuYmGY)
The allure of all-inclusive resorts promises an endless parade of delectable delights, but for some unfortunate travellers, it quickly devolves into a gastronomic nightmare. With lacklustre ingredients, messy buffets, and indifferent staff, these culinary experiences leave much to be desired. Repetitive, overcooked, and poorly executed dishes abound, offering little solace to those seeking a memorable dining experience. Fresh and healthy options are a distant dream, as basic, crowded restaurants churn out mass-produced meals, leaving guests feeling like mere cattle. The lack of taste and uninspired plating only add to the disappointment, turning the feast into a famine of flavours.
In a world where culinary mediocrity seems to be an unfortunate norm in holiday packages and resorts, Melia Villaitana emerges as a shining exception. This luxury resort has mastered the art of transforming a simple meal into an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Their secret lies in embracing innovative and fresh ingredients, crafting inspired and reinterpreted recipes that excite the taste buds. A harmonious blend of classic and local flavours enhances every meal experience, offering a delightful melange of tastes. Impeccable service accompanies guests at any time of the day, whether indulging in the classical buffet or exploring alternative dining venues. Melia Villaitana truly proves that a remarkable culinary adventure can be the highlight of any holiday getaway.
And therefore, I decided to dedicate a special post to my gastronomic experience of those 6 days spent at Melia Villaitana.
If you are a LEVEL guest, both, breakfast and dinner are served in the BOTANIC restaurant. Nestled within the idyllic landscape of a luxurious LEVEL area, BOTANIC Restaurant stands as a culinary haven that captivates the senses and leaves guests in awe. With its spacious indoor and outdoor areas, diners can revel in the tranquillity of never feeling crowded. Indoors, an elegant and minimalistic design creates an atmosphere of sophistication and refinement. Outdoors, the terrace envelops the mesmerizing lake-shaped pool, offering breath-taking views of the resort. Under the excellent management of a warm and attentive staff, BOTANIC Restaurant blooms as the epitome of culinary pleasure and serenity combined in the sometimes overwritten “half-board formula”
Start your day off right with a delightful breakfast experience at BOTANIC restaurant which offers a diverse and mouth-watering morning culinary treats that caters to every taste.
For lovers of international classics, you’ll find scrambled eggs, sausages, and a selection of cereals to satisfy your cravings. Cheese enthusiasts will be delighted by the array of options, from renowned international brands to delightful local varieties. Indulge in the all-time Spanish favourites like tostada with grated tomato, and savour the high-quality Jamon Iberico, and flavourful chorizo. Craving something sweet? Treat yourself to churros, a beloved Spanish delicacy.
Health-conscious guests will find an array of fresh vegetables and an assortment of healthy options, including hummus, guacamole, yogurts and various dips. And for those who appreciate local specialties, the breakfast menu proudly features dishes from the Comunidad Valenciana region.
Quench your thirst with fresh juices and savour a cup of delicious coffee, making it a perfect start to your day.
A piece of advice: if you prefer a tranquil breakfast ambiance, arrive early in the morning. The breakfast service concludes at 10:30, and as most guests are Spanish, they tend to enjoy a lively family breakfast, which may become busier as the morning progresses.
Embark on a gastronomic journey at BOTANIC restaurant and savour a breakfast experience that caters to diverse tastes, featuring both international delights and cherished Spanish delicacies. I learned after the first day at Melia Villaitana that a great day begins with a sumptuous breakfast at BOTANIC.
The same venue stands as a true gastronomic oasis after sunset, where food enthusiasts embark on a unique culinary journey every night. This exquisite eatery has garnered an ardent following for its ever-changing variety of cold and hot dishes, ensuring that no two evenings are alike. Among the offerings, the much-beloved Paella, renowned for its rich flavours and vibrant colours, takes centre stage, while its Catalan sister, Fideua, delights those seeking a slightly different twist on the classic.
One of the highlights at Botanic is their fabulous salad bar, adorned with an abundance of fresh and wholesome produce, offering unlimited combinations for the creation of healthy and flavourful salads. For connoisseurs of Spanish cuisine, the restaurant offers a delectable selection of Valencian cold cuts, showcasing the region’s culinary heritage. For meat lovers, THE LEVEL restaurant does not disappoint. From succulent grilled or cooked fish to prime cuts of lamb, beef, pork, and juicy chicken, the menu caters to diverse tastes and preferences. The tapas section beckons with an array of delectable options, from the iconic Patatas Brava and Spanish croquettes to refreshing chilled Gazpacho or Salmorejo, perfect for hot summer evenings. As the feast reaches its grand finale, diners are enticed by the alluring dessert bar. Fresh fruits compete with mouth-watering cakes, vying for a spot-on plates eager to satisfy sweet cravings
While drinks are not included, Botanic ensures that guests have access to a meticulously curated selection of wines. White wine enthusiasts will delight in choices such as Paco & Lola, with its invigorating tones, or ETCÉTERA, boasting floral nuances and fruity touches. For those with a penchant for reds, Habla del Silencio promises a symphony of flavours, from cherry and blackberry to hints of mint, graphite, and pepper.
Botanic Restaurant shatters the conventional image of an all-inclusive buffet, instead offering a culinary adventure filled with surprises and delights. With each evening bringing new flavours and combinations, dining at Botanic is an exceptional experience that will leave guests longing for more. So, if you seek an unforgettable night of gastronomic indulgence, let Botanic Restaurant be your compass to a world of taste and texture.
For the last several years, we’ve watched the rise of the food truck from delicious hot dog carts to taco wagons and to an all-out gourmet battle driven by the food-truck followers you see today. The variety of food trucks is never-ending as well – from ethnic to fusion cuisine, cupcakes and ice cream and everything in-between. So get ready to discover at Melia Villaitana a proper Food Van.
Located in the area of the main pool, the Food Van is culinary gem where classical snacks get a Spanish twist and a whole lot of fun! Embracing the beloved Spanish tradition of sharing -“compartir”, this lively food van serves up traditional dishes like hamburgers, tacos, and hot dogs, all infused with local produce. Fear not the fast-food stigma, for Melia Villaitana food van takes a green approach, using sustainable materials and reducing waste. With a jubilant ambiance, decent prices, and colossal portions, every visit is a fiesta! So hungry or not just pay a visit, taste the joy, and revel in the blissful unity of food and laughter.
Melia Villaitana includes on its gastronomic map a series of very interesting alternative dining venues. A normal guest at the hotel will pay “a la carte” as those in THE LEVEL will pay only a cover charge of 17 Euros and order everything from the menus. Now, if you book one of the top suites in THE LEVEL you can switch the dinner in Botanic with any other alternative dining options paying only the drinks and having access to the entire menu.
Of course, I try all of them and, in some cases I’ve been twice.
PAPAMAMBO
Behind a majestic façade reminiscent of the spectacular Condal Palace of Cocentaina, this cosmopolitan all-day-dining experience is bathed in natural light. Serving both lunch and dinner in the evening, during the shows in Plaza Real is changing in a surprising cocktail bar.
It is a very good choice but comparing with the other two options Papamambo was my last favourite from both service and menu point of view.
I started my evening with a SPANISH POTATO SALAD (13 Euros menu price) – tender potatoes and carrots, boiled to perfection, mingle with the velvety goodness of boiled eggs. Then comes the star of the show, the tantalizing tuna tataki, seared to succulent splendour. And to unite this heavenly ensemble, a luscious coat of mayonnaise embraces every delightful ingredient. Prepare to be bewitched by this delightful medley of tastes, bringing as a starter the sun-kissed shores of Spain with every blissful bite! Olé!
Next from the starter list was PAPAMAMBO MUSSELS (14 Euros menu price) – cooked with Fennel, Garlic, and White Wine it was a real culinary masterpiece. As the ocean’s jewels, plump and brimming with essence, meet the subtle embrace of aromatic fennel and pungent garlic, a symphony of scents fills the air. Then, the alchemy of white wine simmers and infuses the molluscs, unleashing a rich, harmonious taste. This divine harmony of flavours transports diners to coastal serenity, where the sea’s bounty delights the senses. Pure indulgence!
The first choice for the main was HAMBURGUESA CON TRUFA Y FOIE (19 Euros menu price) – a symphony of indulgence, this opulent creation tantalizes taste buds like a fine gastronomic piece of art. Nestled between artisanal buns, juicy, prime beef exudes tenderness, harmonizing with the earthy allure of truffle and the buttery decadence of foie gras. Enrobed in a velvety blanket of aged cheddar, its piquancy elevates the ensemble to celestial heights. Fresh tomato slices and crisp lettuce add vibrancy, a verdant dance of colours and textures, contrasting the richness within. One divine bite is a passage to the divine, as flavours intermingle in an exquisite gastronomic ballet, leaving discerning palates spellbound.
And I couldn’t resist to try the SEA BASS LOIN (20 Euros menu price) – freshly grilled to perfection, succulent and tender, the pristine white flesh dances upon the palate, heightened by the vibrant medley of ratatouille, a harmonious marriage of garden-fresh vegetables. And to crown this culinary masterpiece, a verdant drizzle of pesto dressing, elevating the dish to new gustatory heights
Believe of not I have some space for desert, and I decided to try for the first time in my life TORRIJAS (7 Euros menu price) – a family favorite, a cross between French toast and bread pudding, it’s a simple Spanish dessert that has gotten a fair share of compliments over the years. And I fall in love with this desert: as the luscious morsels sizzle to a golden hue, they beckon with their tantalizing aroma. A divine liaison of textures and tastes unfolds as they luxuriate in the embrace of Xalot confiture, an exquisite creation of ancient flavours. To complete this symphony of indulgence, a crown of artisanal ice cream bestows a celestial touch, rendering every bite a unique experience.
The weakest link of the menu was Papamambo cheese cake version (7 Euros menu price) – the reinterpretation of the beloved cheesecake falls short of its potential. Alas, a minor misstep leaves it somewhat dry, and its flavour, though pleasant, lacks the vivacity sought. While the vanilla essence brings a delicate touch, the medlar jam struggles to invigorate the otherwise unremarkable experience.
The wine choice for Papamambo’s night was HABLA DE TI (21 Euros/bottle) – a white wine from Extremadura, this Sauvignon Blanc is a delightful white wine with a rich bouquet of asparagus, mango, and tomato leaf aromas. Its taste is incredibly fresh, leaving a lingering aftertaste of tropical fruits that excites the palate. This wine promises a memorable experience, with its well-balanced flavours and refreshing character. It is a perfect choice for those seeking a crisp and vibrant white wine with a long-lasting tropical finish.
CASA NOSTRA
Located in the spectacular Patio de los Naranjos at the Meliá Villaitana, CASA NOSTRA it was a real surprise, combining new Italian cuisine with the ancient recipes and flavours of the south, far away from any classical Italian restaurants visited until then. Inside a building that resembles an ancient Dominican convent, Casa Nostra revives ancient Sicilian recipes and gives them an exquisite modern touch. The service was absolutely impeccable, reminding me of a very expensive restaurant anywhere in the world and the ambiance was unique. No surprise that I chose this venue twice for dinner.
The first starter was an amazing CARPACCIO DI MANZO (16 Euros menu price) – exquisite slices of tender veal, artistically adorned with peppery arugula, decadent black truffle shavings, and succulent tomato jewels, come together to elevate your senses. An opulent layer of aged Parmigiano adds a delicate richness, while a zesty lemon vinaigrette imparts a harmonious symphony of flavours
Another starter, ordered in both nights at CASA NOSTRA was a gorgeous BURRATA (15 Euros menu price) – Burrata, the queen of creamy indulgence, dances harmoniously with luscious tomato confiture, a tantalizing blend of sweetness and tang. Subtle notes of golden honey delicately caress the senses, while the elusive aroma of truffles adds an enchanting earthiness. Nestled on a bed of rustic sourdough bread, this dish transports you to a realm of pure gastronomic bliss, where each bite unveils a new dimension of delectable sensations.
The second night as a starter I decided for CARPACCIO DI TONNO (14Euros menu price) – delicate slices of fresh tuna, glistening like jewels, tantalize the taste buds. Briny capers lend a delightful burst of tangy excitement, while crispy croutons provide a satisfying crunch. A drizzle of luscious olive oil ties it all together, adding richness and enhancing every nuance.
One of my favourite main course at CASA NOSTRA was BRANZINO ALLA LIVORNESE (21 Euros menu price) – captivating Sea Bass extravaganza. The dish showcases a delectable harmony of flavors and textures, with tender squid stew, succulent king prawns, and briny clams and mussels adorning the perfectly seared sea bass. A velvety tomato sauce embraces the ensemble, infusing each bite with a delightful richness, while the tangy capers add a delightful zing. Fresh basil leaves add a final touch of herbaceous elegance. Every element of this masterpiece plays its part, creating a symphony of taste that delights the palate and transports diners to the shores of gastronomic bliss.
Another favourite option was STROZZAPRETI PESTO GENOVESE (16 Euros menu price) – a dish that weaves a tale of Italian culinary excellence. The handcrafted strozzapreti pasta, lovingly twirled around velvety pesto, transports you to the lush gardens of Genoa. The fragrance of toasted pine nuts and garlic adds an aromatic allure, while the verdant basil leaves sing of freshness. A symphony of Pecorino and Parmesan cheeses creates a melodic balance, and a crown of creamy burrata crowns this gastronomic masterpiece
Of course the second night I had to try at leas one of the 13th different pizzas and I decided for – PIZZA CASA NOSTRA (17 Euros menu price) – the signature recipe, A harmonious fusion of flavors unfolds as the creamy Mozzarella intertwines with the vibrant tomato sauce, creating a symphony of indulgence. The bold Serrano raw ham lends a tantalizing touch of saltiness, while the peppery arugula adds a delightful burst of freshness. The briny anchovies and drizzle of luscious olive oil provide the perfect finishing notes. At each bite the essence of Italian tradition and culinary finesse come together in perfect harmony
Believe or not I had desert too…actually not one but 3 in 2 different nights. I started with CARPACCIO DE PIÑA (7.50 Euros menu price) – with marinated pineapple bathing in a fiery yet balanced spicy syrup, elegantly complemented by the cool indulgence of mandarin sorbet. After that it was PANNACOTA FRUTOS ROJOS (7.50 Euros menu price) – a velvety Italian delicacy, adorned with a drizzle of vibrant red berries coulis. The creamy smoothness of the Panna Cotta beautifully contrasts with the tangy sweetness of the coulis, creating a symphony of flavours. And of course I ended one evening with the traditional TIRAMISÚ ALLA VANIGLIA (7.50 Euros menu price) – Layers of delicate ladyfingers, skilfully soaked in espresso and brandy, interlace with a velvety mascarpone cream infused with Madagascar vanilla beans, creating an exquisite balance of flavours. Each decadent bite unveils a symphony of coffee, vanilla, and creamy richness, leaving the senses enticed and enchanted. At CASA NOSTRA this iconic dessert is a sublime celebration of gastronomic elegance that transcends time.
To drink, our excellent waiter suggested a bottle of VIONTA GODELLO (19Euros/bottle) – a clean, with medium intensity, brilliant wine, lemon-yellow in the glass with flashes of green. Fruity bouquet of green apple, plums, pear and a prominence of citrus.
LIMA
With no doubts, Lima was my favourite alternative dining at Melia Villaitana, the perfect combination of Nikkei cuisine with Latin American influences and Spanish and Italian favourites offering in a modern but classy ambiance dishes full of flavour accompanied by signature cocktails in line with the restaurant concept. 2 nights, 2 different menus for my palate, in a sharing concept.
Chaufa Rice is a Peruvian version of Chinese fried rice – the dish is part of Chifa cuisine, created by Chinese immigrants who adapted their recipes with Peruvian ingredients. This dish is a great way to use leftover cooked rice, sauteed in a Wok pan with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, onion, egg, chives, peppers, and diced beef (beef, pork, or chicken) or shrimp.
At LIMA restaurant I tried 2 different versions of Chaufa:
CHICKEN CHAUFA (12 Euros menu price) – a flavourful dish features fragrant fried rice combined with succulent chicken, an array of fresh vegetables, and a hint of aromatic sesame. Drizzled with savory hoisin and soy sauce, this culinary masterpiece reaches new heights when crowned with a perfectly cooked egg
SHRIMP CHAUFA (14 Euros menu price) – the beautifully presented culinary masterpiece commences with fragrant rice, skilfully stir-fried to perfection, then graced with succulent shrimp that beckons with its oceanic charm. A vibrant medley of fresh vegetables adds a burst of colour and nutrition to the ensemble. As the dish takes its final form, a luscious egg embraces the creation, lending a velvety richness to every bite. Embellished with toasted sesame, and luxuriously drizzled with the divine fusion of hoisin and soy sauce, this gastronomic delight unites the essence of Peruvian cuisine with every savory mouthful
Other fabulous starters shared during my 2 nights at LIMA were
“BUFFALO” SHRIMP TEMPURA (12 Euros menu price) – Succulent shrimp, delicately coated in a feather-light tempura batter, meets the bold and tangy allure of authentic buffalo sauce. The experience reaches its crescendo as the dish harmonizes with a velvety drizzle of blue cheese
PIMIENTOS DE PADRÓN (7 Euros menu price) – exquisite flavors of these tender Padrón peppers are elevated with a delightful symphony of pistachios and the umami essence of miso.
CEVICHE LIMEÑO (12 Euros menu price) – Tender fish, bathed in the zesty embrace of “Tiger’s Milk” citrus sauce, dances on the palate. A delightful medley of sweet potato and red onion bestows an elegant touch, while crisp pop corn adds a whimsical surprise,
EMPANADA (10 Euros menu price) – a refined culinary ensemble, showcasing a meticulously crafted patty infused with succulent beef. Complemented by the exquisite nuances of criollo sauce, this gastronomic delight delivers a harmonious amalgamation of textures and flavours.
Ready to order the main(s)?
COD FISH WITH MISO (18Euros menu price) – my favourite who give you the chance to immerse your senses in the tender, succulent cod, its pearly-white flesh infused with the enchanting allure of umami-rich miso, a velvety embrace that lingers on your palate. As you indulge, witness the spring onions’ charred elegance, adding a crispy and smoky charm that harmonizes beautifully with the cod’s delectable essence.
BEEF SKIRT (18Euros menu price) – tender and succulent, the beef skirt flawlessly pairs with the crisp verdant embrace of Bok choy. A graceful drizzle of “chimichurri” sauce, infusing the dish with vibrant herbaceous notes,
CHICKEN ANTICUCHO (16Euros menu price) – succulent chicken, artfully marinated, graces the skewer alongside golden corn and roasted potato, a medley of textures that delights. The celestial notes of criolla sauce accentuate the ensemble, while fresh coriander and zesty lime dance on the tongue.
Of course I ordered deserts too…
CHOCO MISO (7 Euros menu price) – picture a velvety cloud of luscious Chocolate Pudding, drizzled gently atop the warm, buttery embrace of freshly baked Brioche, its delicate crumb a testament to culinary finesse. Nestled on this canvas of perfection, a generous scoop of Banana Ice Cream awaits, its creamy sweetness a tantalizing contrast to the gentle bitterness of crushed peanuts sprinkled artfully.
COCO LOCO (7 Euros menu price) – its creamy coconut essence embraces toasted Coconut Chips. Roasted Pineapple adds a captivating twist, its sweet and caramelized allure a perfect pairing. A golden drizzle of Honey crowns this masterpiece
CHOCOLATE SURPRISE (17 Euros menu price) – Indulge in the custom-crafted desert, for two! This shield of sumptuous dark chocolate boasts a captivating, sweet strength, concealing a symphony of flavours within its multiple layers. Break it open with a hammer to reveal a burst of rich, heavenly taste, an exquisite treat for discerning palates. Enjoy!
To drink we started of 2 of the cocktails (9.50 Euros each) served at LIMA and another bottle of Paco&Lola ( 28 Euros/bottle) – our old friend from a previous night.
Melia Villaitana is a culinary haven, offering a melange of choices from multiple cuisines. The menu caters to all, with healthy options to satisfy diverse tastes. Embracing tradition, classic, urban, and cosmopolitan influences, their outstanding service elevates the dining experience. The unforgettable food at Melia Villaitana beckons guests to return time and again.
Leonard Miron 