Finca Besaya

Set in a pristine country house, amidst an avocado plantation, Finca Besaya ensures that guests dine in the lap of luxury. Its cosy, rustic interior, embellished with original paintings as well as traditional antiquities, makes for a unique setting. The terrace, a charming spot, overlooks the farm and benefits from a magnificent view; the seating arrangement and soft lighting set the tone for a quiet conversation with your companion or idle chatter with friends. The bar is comfortably furnished with sofas that make you feel thoroughly at home while you browse through the menu and enjoy your drink.

There are three main dining areas, the first being on the ground floor, which has an enormous fireplace, and then upstairs where you can choose from either 'the blue room' or 'the library', both of which are filled with old books.

Founded by Francis Butler, a stage and screen personality, this highly individual Marbella restaurant started as a room in his house and gradually expanded. Now in new hands with an exciting menu, it continues to attract a theatrical and vivacious crowd.

The fixed price three course carte du jour offers creative Mediterranean dishes. Main course delicacies - such as fried sea bass, quinoa risotto and champagne sauce; pan-fried turbot, polenta, asparagus and mushroom jus, and the house speciality of vanilla flavoured lobster with confit of carrots - take gastronomes on an exciting journey. But, not before starters such as beef carpaccio, rocket leaves, shaved parmesan and basil oil, and terrine of foie gras, spiced bread and apple chutney have extended you a warm welcome. To bid adieu, a range of sweets led by lime mousse with basil and strawberry sauce and chocolate praline and crème anglaise queue up to be chosen.

This is just a sampling of the bill of fare; for others the draw could be the grilled duck breast with ginger sauce, and chicken skewers. Those who enjoy salads may opt for one of avocado, carrots, endive, palm hearts, tomato, lettuce, orange, smoked duck breast and yoghurt with lemon sauce.

After dining you can dance the night away to the classic tunes played at La Finca Besaya. The glorious location, the ambience, the food and service by five star staff make this attractive place well worth a visit.