Pusaki: A Hidden Gem Forged in Fire
One of the greatest joys of living in Asturias is discovering those special places that feel like a well-kept secret. These are the spots you hesitate to share too widely, wanting to keep them just for yourself. But some experiences are too good not to pass on, and Pusaki is one of them. This small, unassuming restaurant, just a stone's throw from our casitas in Arcenoyu, has quickly become one of our absolute favorites.
At first glance, Pusaki is simple and rustic. The dining room is small and intimate, with an unpretentious charm. But don't let its simplicity fool you. The food and wine here are nothing short of fantastic, offering a modern culinary experience that stands out from the typical Spanish menu. And at the heart of it all, both literally and figuratively, is the magnificent, handcrafted pizza oven.
The Star of the Show: A Giant Oven Built by Hand
The moment you step into Pusaki, your eyes are drawn to it: a colossal, wood-fired oven that radiates warmth and dominates the space. This isn't just a piece of kitchen equipment; it's the soul of the restaurant. The owners built this behemoth by hand, and their dedication is evident in every single dish that emerges from its fiery belly.
This oven is where the magic happens. The menu is a masterclass in cooking with fire, showcasing a creative departure from traditional Spanish fare. While a classic fabada or cachopo has its time and place, Pusaki offers something different. The focus is on modern, thoughtfully prepared dishes where the smoky, charred essence from the wood fire elevates every ingredient. From perfectly roasted vegetables with salsa romesco to succulent meats, these dishes carry that unmistakable flavour that only a real wood oven can impart.
The bread!!
Always say yes to the bread - it is some of the best you will have eaten.
If you want a loaf it needs to be preordered by whatsapp on the Tuesday for pick up on Thursday.
More Than Just Pizza: Sourdough and Special Nights
While the oven might scream "pizzeria," it's so much more versatile. However, when they do turn their attention to pizza, the results are spectacular. Pusaki does pizza nights on Fridays that are an absolute must-try. The crusts are crisp and chewy, the toppings are fresh and inventive, and the atmosphere is wonderfully convivial. These nights are incredibly popular, so booking is essential.
One of our favorite insider tips revolves around another of the oven's creations: the bread. On Thursdays, Pusaki transforms into a micro-bakery, producing some of the most delicious sourdough bread you will find in the area. The crust is thick and crackly, the inside is soft and airy it’s pure perfection. You can't just show up and buy a loaf, though. You need to pre-order it, and I highly recommend you do. There's nothing better than bringing a warm loaf back to your casita to enjoy with some local cheese and a glass of wine.
Seasonal Menu
The menu is seasonal and changes often. Using local ingredients including the mushrooms from Cabranes is a highlight.
Plan Your Visit: A Few Words of Advice
Pusaki’s charm lies in its small, intimate nature. This also means that space is very limited. I cannot stress this enough: you must call ahead to check their opening hours and make a reservation. Their schedule can vary depending on the season and turning up without a booking will almost certainly lead to disappointment. A quick phone call ensures you won't miss out on this incredible dining experience.
The restaurant’s location is another one of its perks, especially for our guests at Casitas Asturias. For those who enjoy a scenic stroll, Pusaki is within walking distance from Arcenoyu, although there are a few steep hills in between. It’s a 45 minute walk through the countryside that helps you build an appetite on the way there and walk off the wonderful meal on the way back. If you prefer to drive, it’s a very short and easy 10-minute journey by car.
The menu is modern, the wine list is excellent, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.
Pusaki is a testament to what can be achieved with passion, creativity, and a very, very hot oven. It’s a place where simple, high-quality ingredients are transformed by fire and skill into something truly memorable.
If you are looking for an authentic dining experience that goes beyond the tourist trail, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit. Just remember to call ahead!
Opening Times:
Thursday: Open for lunch from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Bread is also available for purchase (pre-order on Tuesday by whatsapp required).
Friday: Open for lunch from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM and for pizza nights from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Saturday & Sunday: Open for lunch from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Opening times may change depending on the season (this is for winter)
Bread Availability:
Bread is available on Thursdays. Make sure to pre-order on TUESDAYS to secure your loaf.
Location:
Pusaki is located in La Puerte, Cabranes. You can find it easily on Google Maps.
Reservations and Contact:
Reservations and orders can be made via WhatsApp at +34 622 017 130. It's highly recommended to call or message ahead to confirm availability and secure your spot, especially for pizza nights.
