Salmedina

Updated April 2024

After a 10 year stint in New York, Jaime Guardiola and Pedro Ruiz-Ocejo returned home in 2021 and, along with partners José Carpintero and Miguel Criado, set up this very traditional neighbourhood cervecería in one of Sevilla’s most traditional neighbourhoods. Just off the Plaza Alfalfa, Salmedina is exactly the kind of place I hoped would take over venerable Casa Antonio-Los Caracoles, which had been in residence for over 50 years. I love that the Salmedina team want to create a genuine “bar de barrio” and I also love what they’ve done with the place. Its all light and bright inside, white and blue, with lovely tiles, tall tables and an open kitchen. Outside is one of the nicest terrazas in Sevilla.

The concept here is to keep the food simple and traditional, but with attention to product and presentation. Jaime is also a partner of Tribeca and Cañabota with his brother Eduardo, so it’s no surprise that fish and seafood are the main protagonists at Salmedina. The Guardiolas also have their own fish market, Pescaderías Astaroth, in Rota on the Cádiz coast, which ensures superior freshness and quality. The menu at Salmedina is short but varied, complimented with daily specials based on what was best at the market that morning. To accompany your meal there is also a good wine list.

And the food is terrific. Hard to pick a favourite but as someone who’s not that crazy about ensaladilla this one blew me away, so much depth of prawny deliciousness. Prawns also show up on the menu as simply cooked Cádiz style, split open and grilled or in tempura, and they are all great. The salt cod brandada served on lightly toasted fresh bread is crazy moreish, and the overnight-cured red tuna with pickled onion and cuke fresh and delightful. Check out the fresh fish display too. And be sure to save room for one of their creamy individual cheesecakes, with a touch of cabrales, perfect with a glass of cream sherry (try it on ice with a slice of orange).

Seafood heaven in a casual ambiance with fabulous staff. The expertly chosen short wine list works perfectly with the food and there’s plenty of ice cold beer on tap too.

Bread/Service Charge: 1.20€ PER PERSON