James BryceHIDDEN in what seems like the back of beyond Polear is an unexpected treasure.
The restaurant has an impressive wine list that at first glance is surprising in a restaurant in such a small, out of the way rural village.
But it makes sense when you realise owner Juan Jesus Cruces was named the best sommelier in Cadiz at the Nariz d’Oro for two years running in 2007 and 2008.
He also trained at top restaurants on the coast including the Hotel Los Monteros in Marbella, before pairing up with brother Rafa to open their own restaurant in Alcala del Valle.
Both from the village, the brothers compliment each other well and the delicious restaurant offers modern food with a completely different feel to the traditional, rustic fare elsewhere in Alcala.
To keep the menu fresh it changes on an almost daily basis with constant additions alongside some of the more popular dishes that are always in demand.
And there is a focus on using the local produce that is in season.
“We know what our customers like,” insists Juan Jesus, who is always on hand to recommend dishes and the best wine to accompany it.
I opted for one of the new additions, a refreshing salad with smoked cod, orange, tomato and potato that was new that day but I imagine will be sticking around.
I followed it with a gratin with succulent prawns in a roast pepper sauce and then tender carrillada topped off with a delicious tiramisu.
It was reason enough to pay a visit to Alcala del Valle.
