(patiodelmalinche.com) – Calle El Caimito, Granada, Nicaragua

How I heard of this place: Trip Advisor

Type of cuisine: Nicaraguan and European breakfasts, including fresh fruit, Corn Flakes, meusli, yogurt, eggs, toast, cheese and blended beans.

Ambiance: Calming, peaceful, serene. The courtyard dining space lines the right side of the corridor, with outdoor access amid the trees at the exposed center of the space. The vibrant, salmon-colored porticos are covered to protect from the elements, however natural light and the refreshing morning breeze are easily inhaled. Each linen-lined table is beautifully graced with handmade placemats using dried leaves and vines natural, preserved. The quiet of the space, the thoughtfulness and attentiveness of the staff, the simplicity of our surroundings, each day, prepared us for a beautiful day of exploration, discovery and relaxed enjoyment.

What I ordered: Three breakfast options are presented at this establishment, each with fresh natural fruit juice, coffee or tea, toasts, butter and mango preserves, include: the Malinche with eggs (scrambled, fried or omelette), sausage/ham and tomato;

Tropical, a complete fresh fruit platter; Baloo, Corn Flakes with sliced bananas and milk, and a small fresh fruit platter;

Meusli with raisins, yogurt or milk and a small fresh fruit platter.

I enjoyed one of each, in that order, for every day that we spent at Malinche.

Chris started with scrambled eggs, joined me for Corn Flakes and ended his stay with an omelette.

What I loved: I loved the variety, the simplicity, and especially the abundance of fresh fruit!

Why I loved it: Beyond the helpfulness and the thoughtfulness of the staff, outside of the peaceful serenity of the ambiance and the comfort of our rooms, I love that we were treated like friends, real guests, rather than strangers renting a space. It was sweet and kind of our hosts to hold our toast and platters of fruit for us to enjoy as an afternoon snack, at our ready. Truly, this is an experience at a place worth repeating and worthy of high-flying recommendations!

Cost: High (USD$72 per night per double occupancy room, includes breakfast)