La Cala del Pino

Restaurante La Cala del Pino is beside the cove of the same name, at km 3 of La Manga, on the Mar Menor side. It serves rice and fish with a terrace overlooking the lagoon, and customers remember it for paella, generous portions and views through the pines.

Rice dishes and sharing plates

Paella is the most popular choice, with caldero (the local fish and rice stew) and arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish stock) completing the rice selection. Croquettes, octopus and baby squid are the most-mentioned starters, and seafood appears in many reviews. Portions are generous, so avoid overordering.

• Paella
• Caldero (the local fish and rice stew) and arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish stock)
• Octopus
• Croquetas (croquettes)
• Baby squid

Terrace overlooking Mar Menor

The terrace overlooks the lagoon, and sunsets often feature in reviews. There are vegetarian options, good desserts and a wine selection, with spending of 20 to 30 euros per person according to Google. It opens early and also serves breakfast with coffee.

Opening hours

Open Tuesday to Friday from mid-morning to mid-afternoon, with longer hours at weekends; closed Mondays. Takeaway is available. Find more rice dishes at restaurants in La Manga.