In Barcena Mayor, probably the oldest town in Cantabria, we had a great meal at the restaurant the Bridge. As its name suggests, it is situated in front of the stone bridge at the end of the town, there the normal menu costs 10 € per person we got one red bean plataco which was to die for and then some scallops with mushroom sauce, and a great dessert, some pancakes with applesauce and Worcestershire sauce. We were full, ate well, cheap and with a full menu on with a view of the river, hunting grounds and very friendly staff, highly recommended in your visit the town of Barcena Mayor.
This restaurant specialises in home cooking, the most well known being the mountain stew. On the menu there are dishes like succulent game, venison and beans and other typical dishes of the area. The desserts are homemade and the wine list is extensive and varied. The restaurant has disabled access, two very cozy indoor dining areas and an outdoor terrace and smoking area. The daily menu is 12 euros with a choice of 5 starters and 5 mains, with water, wine and homemade dessert.
Of the many restaurants in Barcena Mayor, I was recommended the Inn River Argoza, it was a success. It is a traditional one, in Barrio del Puente, in a typical stone mountain house. It is made up of 2 buildings: On one side the inn, with the bar and dining room on the top floor. On the other side, a stone structure with wooden ceilings. This is hanging over the river Argoza, and from its windows there are great views of the river and the bridge. The room was filled but, despite this, the service was very quick. The waiters are very well organized and the girl who greeted us was friendly. The kitchen is all homemade and there is an extensive menu with all sorts of dishes to choose from. We asked for a regional menu of the area: A mountain stew and game (venison loin and grilled venison stew). Another dish was beef steak, served on a hot stone. The portions are more than ample, so we could not order dessert. We ate great, it was all delicious and we paid in total (including drink) € 43, ie € 21.50 per person. A site that is recommended, both for food and for the beautiful spot where you are.
I think I had the best steak I've eaten in my life here (and I've eaten a few), weighing 850 grams. Not to mention the best mountain stew in the area. I have eaten at many other places so I hope that this recommendation helps you to choose.
We were on the terrace, half an hour or more waiting to get served and the place was half empty, we ordered homemade ice cream and even though they were supposed to have many they only could offer us two. The waitress was serious and not nice.