December 7, 2011 THE VILLADOM TIMES II, III & IV • Page 27 Granada Restaurant has reopened its doors to the public after an extensive renovation project that has left the Hawthorne eatery looking better than ever. The restaurant, which features fine Spanish cuisine, had closed after being damaged by Hurricane Irene. Granada’s owners took the opportunity to refurbish the restaurant, adding a larger bar, new floors, and a fresh coat of paint. The wall that divides the bar from the dining room now features a window, the crest of Spain, and a mural handpainted by a professional artist. While patrons will find completely updated surroundings, the menu that has made Granada a sought-after dining spot has remained intact. Granada Restaurant features a superb chef and great ambiance, and it’s close to home. Granada is family-run, and the Gomez family takes pride in providing patrons a unique dining experience. Manuel Gomez acquired Granada, located right on the Passaic River at the Lincoln Avenue Bridge, several years ago, after running successful restaurants in Staten Island, Lyndhurst, and Paterson. His daughter, Marta, shares the day-to-day management duties, assuring courteous, efficient service. “We strive to please our customers. They are always right,” says Marta. “If there is ever a problem, we give them something else.” The fare is not only Spanish, but Italian as well, with Redecorated Granada Restaurant reopens to public an attractive selection of seafood, steaks and chops, veal dishes, and pasta. Granada’s signature dish is its Paella, either Marinera (shellfish and lobster with saffron rice) or Valenciana (chicken, sausage, shellfish, and lobster with saffron rice). Other popular dishes are broiled seafood combination for two, and shrimp ala chef featuring shelled shrimp prepared with garlic, paprika, white wine, and lemon juice and served on a sizzling platter. A Mediterranean Seafood Salad is an ideal choice. Potatoes, rice or vegetable of the day accompany all main courses, and tasty garlic bread and Granada’s signature french fries are an additional treat. Entrees include everything from chicken dishes to lobster tails. Appetizers include Entremez, a house specialty. The extensive dessert menu features such homemade specialties as flan, bread or rice pudding, and crema catalane. The favorite from the bar is sangria, offered either red, white, or blue (with curacao), and served by the glass or pitcher. Several specialty coffees are also offered, including “Debbie’s Cappuccino,” named in memory of Debra Shortway. Dinner and lunch specials are offered weekly. The lunch menu, which features many of Granada’s favorite entrees, is served Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dinner for two is available for $25.90. Ask your server for details. Owner Marta greets diners. Granada, located at 410 Wagaraw Road, Hawthorne, is open daily 11:30 a.m. until 10 p.m., Fridays until 11 p.m.; Saturdays 12-11 p.m. and Sundays 12-10 p.m. There is ample parking at the rear. Major credit cards are accepted. Small parties are welcome. Call (973) 427-5424 for reservations or additional information.