Mesón de Cándido - Image 1
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Mesón de Cándido

4.2
·7k reviews·Segovia, Spain

A historic Segovian institution beneath the Roman aqueduct, famed for its legendary roast suckling pig and unique traditions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Mesón de Cándido - Image 1

Mesón de Cándido

Best Time

Weekday Evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Segovian institution beneath the Roman aqueduct, famed for its legendary roast suckling pig and unique traditions.

4.2
(7k reviews)

"A century-old restaurant worth visiting for its history, service, and stunning cochinillo."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Reserve Your Table

Essential for securing a spot, especially for the famous cochinillo.

🍽️ Try the Cochinillo

It's the star dish and a must-try Segovian experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cochinillo Asado (Roast Suckling Pig)

Cochinillo Asado (Roast Suckling Pig)

Main Dining Room

The legendary cochinillo, known for its crispy skin and tender meat, is a must-try Segovian specialty.

TikTok+1
The 'Dish Throwing' Tradition

The 'Dish Throwing' Tradition

Dining Area

Witness the unique spectacle of the owner, Cándido, breaking the roast pig with a plate and throwing it on the floor.

TikTokInstagram
Historic Ambiance and Celebrity Photos

Historic Ambiance and Celebrity Photos

Interior

Dine surrounded by a century of history, with walls adorned by photos of famous guests.

TikTokInstagram
Views of the Roman Aqueduct

Views of the Roman Aqueduct

Terrace Seating

Enjoy your meal with a stunning backdrop of Segovia's iconic Roman aqueduct.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for the Famous Cochinillo

Mesón de Cándido is a historic institution, especially famous for its cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig). Reservations are highly recommended, particularly for weekend lunches, as the restaurant is a major draw for both locals and tourists. TikTokReddit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

While lunch is popular, consider an early dinner to potentially avoid the largest crowds. The 'dish throwing' tradition, a unique spectacle, often happens during peak service times. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend Lunch
Why
Experience the full buzz
Crowd
High
When
Off-Season (e.g., November)
Why
Historic atmosphere, fewer tourists
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍 Mesón de Cándido | #segovia #cochinillo #españa #travel #Foodie
@fatphilia.gdl
85.7K likes • 2.4M views

🎯 Reserve Your Table

Essential for securing a spot, especially for the famous cochinillo. TikTokReddit

🍽️ Try the Cochinillo

It's the star dish and a must-try Segovian experience. TikTok+1

El mejor cochinillo asado de España y también el más famoso 📍Casa Cándido Segovia
@noelhorcajadaa
72.3K likes • 895.3K views
🐖 Mesón de Cándido 📍 Pl. Azoguejo, 5, 40001 Segovia ⏰ 1pm-4:30pm, 8pm-11pm 🍞 Pan: €1.5 🍆 Berenjena Asada: €13.5 🥗 Ensalada Tempor: €12.0 🐖 Cochinillo: €31.0 🍷 Sangria 1/2: €12.0 💦 Aqua (1L): €3.0 #🇪🇸#Spain #Segovia #MesóndeCándido #AsadodeCochinillo #스페인 #세고비아 #메손데칸디도 #아사도데코치니요 #새끼돼지통구이 #cs스페인 #cs세고비아
chosteofm
9 likes • 288 views

📸 Capture the Spectacle

Don't miss the unique 'dish throwing' tradition for a memorable photo op. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♂️ Consider Outdoor Seating

Enjoy views of the aqueduct, though indoor seating offers more history. InstagramReddit

El mesón de Cándido es uno de los restaurantes más antiguos de Segovia 🇪🇸 y cuenta con una rica historia que se remonta a más de un siglo, este restaurante ha recibido la visita de muchas personalidades famosas, incluyendo reyes y reinas, jefes de estado, artistas y celebridades. Con One To Trip puedes vivir la experiencia de conocer este emblemático restaurante y por supuesto romper el plato des...
onetotrip
53 likes • 2.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Reserve Your Table

Essential for securing a spot, especially for the famous cochinillo. TikTokReddit

🍽️ Try the Cochinillo

It's the star dish and a must-try Segovian experience. TikTok+1

📸 Capture the Spectacle

Don't miss the unique 'dish throwing' tradition for a memorable photo op. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♂️ Consider Outdoor Seating

Enjoy views of the aqueduct, though indoor seating offers more history. InstagramReddit

⏳ Lunch Can Be Leisurely

Budget at least 1.5-2 hours for lunch, especially if you want to savor the experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mesón de Cándido is celebrated for its historic ambiance and its legendary cochinillo asado, offering a truly unique Segovian dining experience. While many praise the food, service, and atmosphere, some find the prices high and the indoor seating a bit cramped. The iconic 'dish throwing' ritual is a memorable highlight for most visitors. TikTokInstagramReddit

"A century-old restaurant worth visiting.
The eggplant with ham and the roasted suckling pig were absolutely stunning. The restaurant has a great sense of history, excellent service, and an atmospheric decor. I truly enjoyed this dining experience, which left me with wonderful memories of Segovia. I hope to visit again someday."

Wen Lin

"We came here in November, it was an unforgettable experience. It is one of the oldest restaurant that serves the famous Segovia dish: suckling pigs. The atmosphere of the restaurant is fantastic, it was like dining in ancient time. The menu comes in different languages. The taste of the pigs was decent, and you will have the chance to watch the 'dish throwing on the floor' by the owner of this place. The price was not cheap and this is the most expensive lunch we had in Spain. Make sure you make reservation first as the place will be crowded by tourists in group."

Yen Han

"Beautiful view! I am not fat but the spaces between table and chair is so narrow indoor. Feel not comfortable when eating! Quick eating quick leaving. Better seats outside and can watch the famous plate throwing."

Anna Jia

What People Like

Legendary cochinillo
Historic atmosphere
Unique dish-throwing tradition

What People Dislike

High prices
Cramped indoor seating

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is to take a high-speed train (AVE) from Madrid's Chamartín station to Segovia. The journey is about 30 minutes. From Segovia's train station, you can take a local bus or a taxi to reach Mesón de Cándido, which is conveniently located near the Roman aqueduct. TikTok

Yes, it is accessible by car, but parking in the historic center of Segovia can be challenging. There are public parking lots available nearby. Driving allows for flexibility if you plan to explore other areas around Segovia. Instagram

If you are already in Segovia, Mesón de Cándido is centrally located right by the Roman aqueduct, making it easily walkable from most parts of the old town. Taxis are also readily available. TikTok

Yes, local buses in Segovia can take you close to the restaurant. The aqueduct is a major landmark, and most bus routes will pass by or near it. TikTok

The train station is a few kilometers outside the city center. A taxi ride will take about 10-15 minutes, or you can catch a local bus that goes into the city. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Mesón de Cándido is a restaurant, not an attraction with entry tickets. You simply make a reservation or walk in, though reservations are highly recommended. Reddit

The restaurant typically serves lunch from around 1 PM to 4:30 PM and dinner from 8 PM to 11 PM. It's always best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current hours. Instagram

While walk-ins are sometimes possible, especially during off-peak hours or on weekdays, it's strongly advised to make a reservation, particularly for lunch and on weekends, to guarantee a table. Reddit

For popular times like weekend lunches, booking a few days to a week in advance is a good idea. For special occasions or larger groups, booking even further ahead is recommended. Reddit

There is no strict dress code, but smart casual attire is generally appropriate. Many visitors dress nicely to match the historic and somewhat formal atmosphere of the restaurant. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The undisputed signature dish is the 'cochinillo asado' (roast suckling pig), a Segovian specialty renowned for its crispy skin and tender meat. TikTok+2

The cochinillo is traditionally roasted to perfection. A unique serving ritual involves the owner or a waiter cutting the pig with a plate and then throwing the plate on the floor. TikTokInstagram+1

Besides cochinillo, popular choices include 'judiones de la Granja' (a hearty bean stew), roasted eggplant with ham, and various seasonal mushroom dishes. TikTokInstagram

It's considered a fine dining experience, so prices are on the higher side. The cochinillo alone can cost around €30-€35 per portion. Expect a full meal for two to be around €80-€100 or more. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, the 'dish throwing' is a traditional spectacle performed by the owner or staff, often during peak service times, to demonstrate the tenderness of the cochinillo. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photos are generally allowed, especially of the food and the historic decor. Capturing the 'dish throwing' ritual is a popular photo opportunity. TikTokInstagram

The terrace offers great shots of the aqueduct, while the interior walls are covered in historical photos of celebrities and royalty. The presentation of the cochinillo is also very photogenic. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely, this is a highlight for many visitors and a prime photo opportunity. Just be mindful of other diners and staff. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the walls are adorned with numerous photos of famous guests. You're welcome to photograph these as part of the restaurant's historical ambiance. TikTok

The interior lighting is atmospheric and can be a bit dim, contributing to the historic feel. The terrace seating offers natural light, especially during the day. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mesón de Cándido can be a fun experience for families, especially with the unique 'dish throwing' spectacle that often captivates children. TikTok The restaurant's historic ambiance and the visual appeal of the cochinillo can make for an engaging meal. However, be aware that it can get quite busy, and the dining spaces might feel a bit cramped indoors. Reddit Consider booking an outdoor table if available for more space and a view of the aqueduct. The menu offers traditional dishes that might appeal to adventurous eaters, but it's primarily a destination for experiencing the famous cochinillo. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Mesón de Cándido is not typically considered a budget-friendly option. The cochinillo is a premium dish, and prices reflect its reputation and the restaurant's historic status. InstagramReddit While you can order other dishes like 'judiones' or salads, the main draw is the expensive cochinillo. If you're on a tight budget, you might consider visiting for a drink and to soak in the atmosphere, or opt for more casual tapas bars in Segovia. TikTok

💑 Couples

For a romantic or memorable dining experience, Mesón de Cándido offers a unique blend of history, tradition, and exquisite food. The atmospheric interior or a table with a view of the aqueduct can set a lovely scene. InstagramReddit Sharing the iconic cochinillo can be a special culinary moment. Booking in advance is key to ensure a good table and a smooth experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Cochinillo Asado

Mesón de Cándido is synonymous with cochinillo asado, a dish that has put Segovia on the culinary map. This isn't just any roast pig; it's a carefully prepared suckling pig, roasted until its skin is incredibly crisp and its meat is succulent and tender. The tradition dates back centuries, and Cándido's establishment has perfected this art. The sheer presentation, often a whole pig brought to the table, is a spectacle in itself. TikTok+2

Many visitors come specifically for this iconic dish, and it's consistently praised in reviews for its quality and flavor. The unique method of serving, involving the breaking of the pig with a plate, adds a theatrical element that enhances the dining experience. It's a dish that embodies the rich culinary heritage of Castile and León. TikTokInstagram+1

While the cochinillo is the star, the restaurant also offers other traditional Castilian dishes. However, if you're visiting Mesón de Cándido, experiencing their signature roast suckling pig is paramount. It's a taste of authentic Spanish tradition that many travelers find unforgettable. TikTokInstagram

A Century of History and Celebrity Encounters

Stepping into Mesón de Cándido is like stepping back in time. Founded in the late 19th century, the restaurant is steeped in history, a fact proudly displayed on its walls. These walls are adorned with countless photographs of celebrities, royalty, and political figures who have dined there over the decades. From kings and queens to Hollywood stars and famous musicians, the list of patrons is impressive. TikTokInstagram+1

This rich history contributes significantly to the restaurant's atmosphere. It's not just a place to eat; it's a culinary landmark and a sort of museum. The decor, with its rustic charm and historical artifacts, transports diners to another era. Many visitors mention the 'sense of history' and the 'atmospheric decor' as key reasons for their enjoyable experience. InstagramReddit

This historical significance, combined with its prime location beneath the Roman aqueduct, makes Mesón de Cándido a must-visit for many tourists. It offers a glimpse into Spain's past and a chance to dine in a place that has hosted some of the world's most notable personalities. TikTok+1

The Unique 'Dish Throwing' Ritual

One of the most talked-about aspects of dining at Mesón de Cándido is the 'dish throwing' ritual. This unique tradition, performed by the owner Cándido or a member of his staff, involves cutting the perfectly roasted cochinillo with a plate and then dramatically throwing the plate onto the floor. TikTokInstagram

This spectacle is not just for show; it's said to demonstrate the extreme tenderness of the suckling pig – so tender it can be cut with a plate. It's a memorable and entertaining part of the dining experience that many visitors eagerly anticipate and photograph. TikTokInstagram

While some might find it unusual, it's a deeply ingrained tradition that adds to the restaurant's unique charm and legacy. It's a moment that truly sets Mesón de Cándido apart from other dining establishments. TikTok

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