Real Balneario

The story

Real Balneario, Avilés – Michelin-Starred Dining on the Sands of Salinas

A Setting Like No Other

Real Balneario is one of the few restaurants in Spain literally built on the sand. Perched on the beach of Salinas, it looks out over the Cantabrian Sea. The sound of the waves and the shifting light define the rhythm of the dining room. The building itself dates to 1916, when it was opened as a sea baths under the protection of King Alfonso XIII – hence the “Real” (Royal) in its name. Three generations of the Loya family have since turned it into a cornerstone of Asturian cuisine.

The Chef and His Team

Isaac Loya leads the kitchen with more than 17 years of dedication to this house, having worked his way up from the dining room to the stoves. His style combines tradition with subtle, original touches. The website describes it as “cocina que evoluciona sin perder la esencia” – cooking that evolves without losing its essence. He works alongside a team of 16 professionals who share the same values of care, discretion, and quiet excellence. Together, they create a seamless experience where every detail flows naturally.

The Cantabrian Pantry

The restaurant’s pantry is built on proximity and respect for the territory. Seafood and fish come straight from the Cantabrian Sea; vegetables, cheeses, and meats are sourced from Asturian producers. Notably, Real Balneario collaborates with a farm in Salas that supplies the fabes (beans) and greens that complete its dishes. The wine list holds 450 references, balancing modern selections with classic vintages. This commitment to the land, combined with Isaac Loya’s precise, contemporary touch, earned the restaurant a Michelin star – a recognition of high-quality cooking that never loses sight of its roots.