Maralba
Almansa, Spain
⭐2 Stars
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
A family business that sums up what it has set out to do here in one punchy phrase: Manchego cuisine with glimpses of the Mediterranean.In the elegant dining area with a glass-walled wine cellar, Albacete-born chef Fran Martínez really knows how to showcase the region's cuisine and its produce; he gives his creations those modern touches that make all the difference – and at value for money that is hard to beat when it comes to signature dishes. The inclusion in the set menus of all kinds of fresh fish, even discarded fish (supplied daily by the fish market in La Vila Joiosa), and the option to add a wine pairing with labels from La Mancha or the east coast of Spain, are particularly noteworthy. The bread is, of course, also unique because they make it themselves.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Manchego cuisine with Mediterranean glimpses and use of discarded fish: Maralba is distinctive for its focus on Manchego cuisine enhanced with Mediterranean influences. Notably, it incorporates fresh fish including discarded fish supplied daily by the fish market in La Vila Joiosa, which is unconventional for a Michelin-starred restaurant emphasizing regional produce.
In-house bread making and glass-walled wine cellar: The restaurant makes its own bread, adding a unique artisanal touch to the dining experience. Additionally, the elegant dining area features a glass-walled wine cellar, highlighting a curated selection of wines from La Mancha and the east coast of Spain, which complements the menu thoughtfully.
Innovative updated Manchego cuisine paired with special wine dinners: Chef Fran Martínez, with experience in Michelin-starred kitchens, offers an updated take on traditional Manchego cuisine based on locally sourced products. Maralba also hosts special wine pairing dinners, such as the Tast i Tastets events, combining innovative gastronomy with excellent wines at accessible prices.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Maralba in Almansa reflect a fusion of traditional La Mancha cuisine with Mediterranean influences. Key ingredients include:
Gazpacho manchego components: This traditional game meat stew is iconic at Maralba, often featuring hare and pigeon, highlighting local hunting traditions and regional flavors, prepared with innovative techniques while respecting classic recipes.
Spinach and almonds: Used in vegetable dishes that showcase the Mediterranean influence and local produce, emphasizing freshness and texture contrasts.
Local game meats (hare, pigeon): Central to Maralba's reinterpretation of Manchegan classics, these ingredients are treated with modern culinary techniques to elevate traditional dishes.
Caviar: While not unique to Maralba alone, caviar is discussed in the context of haute cuisine at Madrid Fusión, indicating its use as a luxury ingredient to enhance flavors, possibly appearing in refined dishes at Maralba.
These ingredients are significant because they embody the restaurant's philosophy of combining regional heritage with contemporary culinary artistry, maintaining a balance between tradition and innovation.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menus
- Lunch Menu (6 courses): €120
- Dinner Menu (8 courses): €180
Signature Dishes
- Blue Lobster: €95
- Foie Gras: €45
Wine Pairing Options
- Wine Pairing for Lunch Menu: €80
- Wine Pairing for Dinner Menu: €150