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Located in the picturesque Bellaluz square of La Manga Club, Gimlet is one of those rare finds that feels like a well-kept secret among discerning diners. A small, stylish restaurant with an Eastern European heart and Mediterranean soul, it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and culinary sophistication.
From the outside, Gimlet may not demand attention, but step through its doors and you’ll discover an intimate dining room where understated elegance and warm hospitality set the tone. Ambient lighting, a subtle hum of conversation, and attentive yet unintrusive service create a setting designed for slow, sensory enjoyment.
A Distinct Culinary Identity: Fusion with Intention
Gimlet’s menu doesn’t chase trends. Instead, it delivers a confident and cohesive culinary journey through Bulgarian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean flavours, presented with flair and focus. Expect small menus with big ideas, each dish crafted with thoughtful balance and bold creativity.
Highlights of the Menu
- Gimlet Toast: An unforgettable opener: crusty bread topped with lyutenitsa (a rich Bulgarian red pepper spread), creamy feta, and dukkah. Bright, earthy, and wonderfully moreish.
- Grilled Halloumi with Spicy Camomile & Fennel Honey: A harmonious blend of salty, floral, and herbal notes, brought together with lemon zest and black sesame, elevating halloumi into a dish of real intrigue.
- Braised Cabbage: Proof that even the humblest ingredient can shine. Smoky, spicy, and umami-rich, with sesame, miso, jamón, and chilli. A standout that nods to Korean, Slavic, and Iberian influences.
- Lamb Kleftiko: Slow-roasted to perfection, this lamb leg melts in the mouth. Served with bulgur, pickled onion, cooling tzatziki, and zhoug, it’s a masterclass in contrasting flavours and textures.
- Roasted Sea Bream: Mediterranean elegance with a twist—za’atar-spiced fish served atop veggie cream with crispy chickpea chips and pickled grapes. Fresh, fragrant, and inventive.
- Shakshuka with Optional Bulgarian Sausage: A familiar dish reimagined with heart and spice. The addition of Bulgarian sausage gives it depth without overpowering its essence.
Dessert: Sophistication in Every Sweet Bite
- Baklava with Pistachios and Walnuts: A refined take on a classic, paired with mascarpone ice cream for a cool, creamy contrast.
- Choco Torta: A textural delight of hazelnuts, chocolate mousse, biscuit crunch, and velvety vanilla ice cream — decadent yet perfectly balanced.
- Deconstructed Tiramisu: Light, airy sponge layered with mascarpone ice cream, coffee, and amaretto. A playful, elegant reinterpretation of the Italian favourite.
A Bespoke Dining Experience
What elevates Gimlet from a great restaurant to a memorable one is its service. Chef interactions —especially during the tasting menu — offer a personal touch rarely found in resort settings. The team’s knowledge of ingredients, passion for pairing, and attentiveness to dietary preferences contribute to a truly bespoke dining experience.
Who It’s Perfect For
- Food lovers looking to explore beyond the expected
- Couples seeking a romantic, flavourful evening
- Small groups celebrating with great food and conversation
- Adventurous diners who appreciate global fusion done with subtlety and skill
Why Gimlet Stands Out in La Manga Club
In a resort filled with predictable dining options, Gimlet feels like a private culinary discovery. It’s where curious palates are rewarded, where comfort and innovation meet, and where each visit feels tailored, unrushed, and deeply satisfying.
Location: Plaza de la Fuente. Bellaluz, 30389 Cartagena, Murcia, Spain
