It was lunchtime and I was in the mood for a salad. On our many wanderings along Calle Santander, we had noticed many people eating salads at the Restaurante Las Palmeras. We thought we would try it. We took a seat right next to the street.
The place was small and tidy with basic furnishings. The tables were covered in colorful, locally woven cloths. Even though we were the only patrons at the time, it took forever to be noticed. We were finally given menus, and the waitress grudgingly took our drink orders.
The menu is extremely long, with something for everyone. There are 15 steak dinners listed, 23 seafood entrées, and 21 chicken dishes. All main courses come with vegetable soup, salad, vegetables, rice or potatoes, and garlic bread. Also are offered typical dishes, a plethora of sandwiches, and 13 different salads. The 19 pasta dishes come served with soup, salad, vegetables, and garlic bread.
The restaurant was starting to fill up, and the waitress still hadn't taken our order. We called her over to no avail. Many of the people arriving were regulars and were grumbling about the service. It seems things usually weren't this slow and unfriendly. The waitress eventually ambled over and took our order. We also reminded her of our drinks. She glared and stomped off.
After a long wait, we were served. By this time, the restaurant was packed. I ordered the avocado salad. It was beautiful. On a bed of shredded lettuce were many small avocado halves surrounded by shredded carrot and topped with onion, tomato, and olives. It was served with a tangy vinaigrette and garlic toast. The vegetables were incredibly fresh and the serving was large. Libby had garlic toast.
About halfway through my delicious salad, I asked for the check knowing it might take a while. I finished lunch and smoked four cigarettes before the bill came. I dug through my purse searching for the right amount of money. We didn't want to wait for change.
My meal was wonderful, the prices were good, the establishment was clean, and sidewalk seating is always a plus. The service was lousy, but people at neighboring tables assured us this wasn't usually the case. I cautiously recommend Las Palmeras.
Sample Menu
Beef Tenderloin in a Marsala Sauce......Q22
Whole Fish in a Lemon Sauce......Q25
Beef Filet Cordon Bleu......Q30
Curried Chicken Breast......Q25
Chicken and Herbs......Q22
Garlic Shrimp......Q35
BLT......Q17
Chef Salad......Q23
Pasta Alfredo......Q18
Spinach Lasagna......Q20
Chicken and Potato Salad......Q23