RESTAURANTS

Restaurants

El Gourmet Vegetariano

$$$$$ | International

A vegetarian restaurant is hard to come by in a country that eats so much meat, so if you are looking for some refreshing and healthy fare, head to El Gourmet Vegetariano in Caracas. Although a little out the way, it's best to catch a cab to this vegan gem where an all you can eat vegetarian buffet is what you are treated to at a generous price. The unpretentious and relaxed atmosphere is another bonus for intrepid travellers.

Address: Avenida Los Jardines; Telephone: 730 7490

Misia Jacinta

$$$$$ | Local

Misia Jacinta is situated in the swanky Avenida Principal de Las Mercedes. It is open 24-hours a day and serves some of the best Venezuelan food in Caracas as well as offering a Creole menu. It is situated in the middle of the busy avenue with the road bypassing it on both sides and this can put some people off, but inside the variety and quality of the food makes it a favourite eating spot for hungry passers-by, especially late at night or for a quick breakfast. The menu includes basics like maize cakes and rolls with various fillings, hearty stews, grilled meat and chicken dishes.

Address: Avenida Tamanaco, con Avenida Principal de Las Mercedes, El Rosal; Telephone: +58 2 951 6550

Maute Grill

$$$$$ | Local

Many great steak restaurants can be found in the Las Mercedes restaurant district, but among the most succulent options is the Maute Grill, named for the term for a prime bullock, a 'maute'. Meat is treated with great tenderness here, whether the choice be steak, sausage or any other form. Accompaniments include tamale (corn balls in maize), maize cakes, salads and delicious desserts. The restaurant has live music in the evenings.

Address: Avenida Rio de Janeiro, entre Calles New York y Trinidad, Quinta El Portal, Las Mercedes; Telephone: +58 2 991 0892

Da Guido

$$$$$ | Italian

The food, service and atmosphere of Da Guido is unbeatable and its authentic and tasty Italian fare is addictive. This warm and friendly establishment has been serving up favourites like veal parmigiana and traditional pasta dishes for over 30 years. The casual country-inspired decor is enhanced by murals of the Italian countryside, and hams hang down tantalisingly from the rafters. Reasonable prices and good food make this a firm favourite.

Address: Av. Mariscal Francisco, Solano 8; Telephone: +58 212 763 0937