Restaurante El Mosquet
El Mosquet has been feeding serious fish lovers on the Los Alcázares waterfront for decades, and its reputation for no-fuss, impeccably fresh Mar Menor seafood keeps tables full from April to October. This is the kind of place where the menu follows the catch, not the other way around.
What to order
The signature dish is dorada a la sal — whole gilt-head bream baked in a thick crust of sea salt that seals in moisture and flavour, then cracked open tableside with a theatrical flourish. Paired with a tumbler of local white wine from the Campo de Cartagena DO, it is a masterclass in letting good ingredients speak for themselves.
Start with coquinas al ajillo — the tiny Mar Menor clams flash-fried in olive oil, garlic and a splash of dry sherry. They arrive in a terracotta dish still sizzling and are eaten with bread torn straight from the loaf. Order a second portion immediately; you will need it.
The setting and when to go
The restaurant sits on the promenade with a terrace that faces the lagoon, so the light at lunch and the soft glow at dinner are both exceptional. White tablecloths, efficient but unhurried service and the sound of gentle waves complete the picture.
Book ahead for Friday and Saturday evenings in July and August — the terrace fills fast and walk-ins are rarely accommodated at peak times. Weekday lunches are calmer and often better value with a menú del día that includes wine.
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