Gastronomy: new dining experience

COA MARBELLA

AN INSPIRING NEW DINING EXPERIENCE IN NUEVA ANDALUCÍA

Now opened in Nueva Andalucía, gastronomic hotspot COA has already gained an impressive following that ranges diversely in age and nationality. Man-about-town Dutch owner and brand ambassador Michael Keijzer, who formerly owned the renowned Dreamers nightclub, takes a very hands-on approach to his work, getting up to greet each customer who walks through the door – with warmth and sincerity. He says he is greatly humbled by how quickly the restaurant has attained such popularity. COA (a name taken from the last three letters of the Spanish word for barbecue “barbacoa”) offers many dishes cooked on a charcoal grill, but they are quick to stress that they are not a steakhouse but rather offer contemporary Mediterranean gastronomy cooked with authenticity and high-quality produce. We met chef David Aguado – a young and enthusiastic fellow with an evident passion for his work and an impressive CV to boot – who has put together a well-considered and balanced menu that offers something for everyone. As you would expect from the restaurant’s name, there is a large “A La Brasa” (grilled) selection of aged meats with the likes of Galician, Angus, tomahawk, rib eye, cowboy Simmental, Wagyu and Halal on offer, but there are also wonderful seafood and fish dishes (the tuna Almadraba Tataki is a popular choice), stews, pizza and vegetarian options available. The chef explained that the menu will change slightly throughout the year to stay in tune with seasonal produce, while always maintaining the same high standard of presentation and appreciation for the ingredients used. All the dishes we tried looked like works-of-art and, once you’ve taken your pic for the “Gram”(!) and dive in, you realise how much emphasis has been put into the taste experience. Everything we tried was packed with flavour and, when we asked the beautifully turned-out waiters for more details about the dishes, they were happy to accommodate – showing great knowledge and enthusiasm for what they do. The restaurant spans two floors and there is a fabulous terrace for al fresco dining. During the day the terrace is a suntrap, and when we visited there were several tables taken by customers having lunch in the sun whilst others were simply savouring a coffee and homemade dessert – and enjoying the ambience. Inside, the decoration is eclectic but well thought-out. There is an urban chic vibe, with lounge music playing that gives a buzzy feel but is certainly not overbearing. Other superb features include an impressive bar area and comfy velvet bucket chairs, and tables adorned with fresh white tablecloths and good-quality tableware. Blooms of freshly-cut flowers appear all around the restaurant, as well as bold contemporary art by local gallery JoGis Art. As you wander up the staircase, which is a design statement in itself, there is another charming dining area with a huge (and very well-stocked) glass wine cabinet that lines the whole of one side of the restaurant, and on the other side there is a private area leading off the main dining room, ideal for small parties. COA offers more than just an inspiring journey for the tastebuds: it also delivers on giving the customer an all-encompassing dining experience. This venue provides sophisticated décor, ambience and service, steering away from stuffiness and instead making you feel like you have just joined a club of people who are lovers of good food, drinks and a fun atmosphere.

COA Marbella Avenida Las Malvas, Nueva Andalucía (Marbella) Kitchen open all day from Monday to Saturday, 1pm to 11pm Tel. (+34) 683 528 324 www.coarestaurant.es.