(MO) I was at Mauro’s bar Califa in La Herradura enjoying his famous mojito (aka “maujito”) when I saw Sonia and Pepe, the lovely couple who own the popular café/bar/restaurant called Jeannot just down the street. I’ve noticed that Jeannot is always packed with people, so I asked them to tell me in their words what made their place so special. Their response was “The best part of our place is the clients!”

Of course, I know from personal experience, that their good old-fashioned homemade dishes are also another reason their place is so special. Their paella, stew and fried fish dishes are a must, as is their specialty boquerones abiertas. They also have fabulous salads made with organic vegetables from the local area.

If you are not in the mood to eat a big meal, they have an excellent selection of appetizers. In fact, they serve new appetizers every day, which is another reason people never tire of this place. Plus, you are guaranteed a great time with Sonia, Pepe and Raúl serving the wine, beer and tapas behind the bar. They are the reason the atmosphere there is relaxed, friendly and always fun.

Sonia told me Jeannot has existed since 1973, when her grandfather Aurelio started it. It was then passed down to her father Juan, and subsequently to the hard-working Sonia and Pepe. It is obvious that a restaurant, which has existed in a family for almost four decades, is doing everything right. It is recommended that you call to make reservations during the summer to ensure seating. Starting Sept. 15 they change to winter hours and are open every day, except Monday, from 11:00 -18:00.

(Ed) Pepe has the wickedest sense of humour and probably the best fish dishes and tapas in town. It’s also the town watering hole for most. Jeannot isn’t just a bar; it’s an institution. If you haven’t been to Jeannot, you haven’t been to La Herradura – it’s that simple