The city of Querétaro is one of the most dynamic in Mexico, and its culinary scene has grown at the same pace. In this city, there are establishments developed by experienced people who are investing in this region; there are solid concepts whose guiding principle is preparing delicious cuisine with exceptional service. Discover two restaurants in Querétaro that reflect this vision. Text and photos: Jonathan Bastida
Although it may sound cliché, LAMAJA is an authentic journey through Spain, with a strong emphasis on the Asturian region. This is one of the restaurants in Querétaro that offers robust flavors and dishes ranging from a hearty oxtail stew, spider crab, and sirloin steak with Pedro Ximénez sauce to rice prepared right before your eyes. Furthermore, there’s a sophisticated, yet unpretentious, atmosphere.
A cart with various vermouth options and their respective Gordal olives, flamenco on special occasions, and even a live Real Madrid match envelop you and make the essence of Spain permeate the atmosphere. At the same time, the concept of this place breaks with the usual fare among Querétaro restaurants.
Our recommendation: creamy rice with oxtail, seasonal mushrooms, and sherry sauce. If you already have it in mind, reserve a table at the teppanyaki-style table for the full experience. Another must-try is the anchovies in rustic vinaigrette and the seafood fideuà. The entire experience is complemented by a good selection of international wines. Average check: $1,100 MXN per person. Where: Paseo de la República 11798, El Salitre, Santiago de Querétaro, Qro. IG: lamaja.qro
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Larriera, a high-altitude tradition
We literally travel from Spain to Mexico in thirty steps, as this restaurant in Querétaro is located next to LAMAJA. At Larriera, you’ll find the same expertise and the same desire to pamper you and make you feel at home, a hallmark of the LAMAJA Group, of which it is a part. With a spectacular terrace that invites lingering after meals, this space is an ode to Mexican women. It possesses the strength, elegance, and courage of those who are not afraid to acknowledge the value of their roots.
When you sit down at Larriera and the first thing you receive is a sampler of moles made from scratch, you know what to expect. Here, traditional recipes are respected while simultaneously being reinvented.
Moles like pipián, coloradito, poblano, Oaxacan negro, and other sauces play with proteins, finding a sophisticated harmony for every palate. But first, sample some of their appetizers, which are anything but simple! You’ll be surprised by one of the stars: the fried braid of Gouda and Oaxaca cheeses in panko breadcrumbs, served on green huatepe (a type of plantain) with a fried leek and potato garnish.
With a touch of cantina flair and a sophisticated concept that both contrasts and harmonizes, this restaurant is one of the best in Querétaro for a weekday business lunch. It’s also perfect for a weekend getaway with the family. Larriera is also the place you’ll want to take your out-of-town visitors.
Our recommendations: the chicharrón de la Ramos in roasted green salsa, the farmed totoaba in a duo of moles (pipián and coloradito), and the loin chop in Oaxacan black mole. Average check: $950 MXN. Location: Paseo de la República 11798, El Salitre, Santiago de Querétaro, Qro. IG: larriera.mx
These two restaurants in Querétaro belong to Grupo LAMAJA, whose reputation for quality is growing stronger in the region. Visit them soon and discover why the experience speaks for itself.
Source: foodandtravel
