An address Córdobans keep to themselves
El Rincón de Carmen is in a Judería alleyway, well away from the packed terraces of Calle Deanes. Carmen has run this house with her family for over 20 years. She greets guests like friends, remembers regulars by name, and recommends the daily specials with disarming sincerity.
The patio and the room
The small patio seats a handful of tables beneath climbing plants — intimate enough for a quiet dinner, if you book ahead. The vaulted interior room has whitewashed walls and family photographs. Both have their own character.
Carmen's kitchen
The menu mixes tradition with personal touches. The bacalao al carbón (charcoal-grilled salt cod) is outstanding — large, moist flakes that hold together just right. The mushroom risotto is an anomaly on an Andalusian menu, but Carmen learned to make it on a trip to Italy and has never taken it off. The Córdoban classics — salmorejo, rabo de toro, flamenquín — are prepared with care and feel.
Practical details
Expect €20–30 for a generous meal. Book for dinner; lunch is less pressured. Closed Sunday evenings.
