Mesón de Cándido

Frommer's Review

For years this beautiful old Spanish inn, standing on the eastern edge of the old town, has maintained a monopoly on the tourist trade. Apart from the hotel restaurants -- specifically La Cocina de Segovia at the Los Arcos -- it is the town's finest dining choice. The Cándido family took it over in 1905, and fourth- and fifth-generation family members still run the place, having fed, over the years, everybody from Hemingway to Nixon. The oldest part of the restaurant dates from 1822, and the place has gradually been enlarged since then. The proprietor of the House of Cándido is known as mesonero mayor de Castilla (the major innkeeper of Castile). He's been decorated with more medals and honors than paella has grains of rice. The restaurant's popularity can be judged by the crowds of hungry polyglot diners who fill every seat in the six dining rooms. The a la carte menu includes two regional staples: cordero asado (roast baby lamb) and cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig). Some of the seating areas are cramped and confining. Opt for a table on the second floor, facing the aqueduct, or else one of the outdoor cafe tables in front.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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