We booked into The Pines Benijofar for lunch, as we wanted to try somewhere we hadn’t visited before. We did the Benijofar Tapas Trail last year, but sadly, we never made it to the Pines. However, after a lovely lunch today, we’ll be sure to try them on the Tapas Trail this year!
What We Had At The Pines Benijofar
I had the small beer as part of the menu, Soph had a soft drink. We were brought out bread with alioli and tomato. The bread was very fresh, and the tomato and aioli tasted homemade and were really tasty. This was a nice surprise as they weren’t mentioned on the menu and it makes the menu del dia even better value for money than it already is.
Starters
Soph went for the gnocchi, which came with a chorizo and tomato sauce. This has a great depth of flavour without overpowering the gnocchi. My choice was the blue cheese and bacon quiche. This was an excellent, homemade starter. The salad was fresh with a fresh and tasty dressing.
Mains
Soph chose the fish option, which was breaded Hake. This was a really good-sized portion, with three pieces of fish. I ended up commandeering one just to check out the favour, and Soph felt that she still had a generous portion. It was great to have fresh prepared veg to accompany the fish which is so often missing from a menu del dia.
I had the Cajun Pork and am struggling to describe this wonderful dish, but hopefully, the photos will help. The meat was very nicely seasoned, there was plenty of it too. The potatoes were good, the salad was fresh, and this was a delightful dish, the spices, and herbs added to the dish without being overpowering.
Desserts
As soon as the word Apple Crumble was mentioned, I knew Soph was going to select that. I chose a Double Chocolate Cheesecake. Soph was over the moon as she has now found a restaurant that does, in her own words,” proper, homemade crumble,” and this comes with either custard or ice cream. My cheesecake was rich and decadent but very enjoyable and filling.
What We Liked At The Pines
Firstly, the food. This was restaurant-quality food, and every mouthful was enjoyable. The ambiance was very pleasant, and the service was quick and friendly. Based on today’s visit, it’s difficult to find fault.
They also had their menu on their Facebook page early this morning, which was one of the reasons we chose to book.
It was a real shame that they were so quiet with just us and one other table of four. I guess the location, which is off the main street, may negate walk-ins, but this is definitely somewhere that’s worth travelling just a few extra minutes for.
What Could Be Improved
Nothing at all.
How Much Did It Cost At The Pines Bar & Restaurant
For the drinks, bread and both 3-course delicious meals the bill was €27.00. One thing to note: this is a cash-only restaurant, so please ensure you have the cash on you.
I imagine they could choose to accept cards, but may then need to increase their prices, to cover the fees incurred. I have no problem supporting cash-only establishments, and they are very clear in their advertising that this is the case, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone.
Would We Return Here
Without a doubt, this is on our list of places that we really were impressed with and will be returning. I’m going to wait until the next menu is advertised. I’ve checked back on previous menu offerings and seen all these, which would tick the box for me: starters such as crispy chilli beef, four-cheese ravioli, salt beef bagel, and mains including belly pork, chuck beef chilli, pork, and black pudding stack.
Their menu del noche does cost a little bit more, but once again the dishes on here look really nice but equally important, they are different to the run of the mill offerings, on show at some restaurants.
How To Find The Pines In Benijofar
Head up the hill along Av. Federíco García Lorca, turn left onto C. Doña Paz and you’ll see the small square on your left. There is on street parking a very short walk away. Be sure to check their events, menu options and Friday Specials on their Facebook page too.
The address for your satnav: Plaza de Inmaculada Concepcion, Benijófar, Spain
Or give them a call: 865 77 40 79
