In the middle of her training trip as a midshipman aboard the Juan Sebastián Elcano training ship, Princess Leonor experienced a very special moment, away from the spotlight and the usual protocol.
It was during a quiet gastronomic outing in Valparaiso, Chile, where she and her companions surprised everyone by choosing a local restaurant to enjoy a relaxed meal.
Princess Leonor in a restaurant in Valparaiso
The place chosen was Don Emelio, a cozy family restaurant known for its seasonal cuisine with Mediterranean touches and a strong inspiration in Spanish flavors.
Although the visit was not on any official agenda, it soon became an unforgettable experience for both diners and restaurant staff.
From their social networks, the restaurant’s team shared their excitement for having received the heiress to the throne, describing it as one of those moments that life gives without warning.
“Yesterday we lived something we will never forget. We had the honor of welcoming Princess Leonor, heir to the throne of Spain and future queen, to our home.
She arrived accompanied by her group of cadets, and as in every special meeting, we wanted to keep the attention simple, warm and without altering the magic of the moment. They ate well, shared in peace and quiet… and left with a smile on their faces.
For us, as a family and as a restaurant, it was a gift. One of those surprises that life gives you without warning, but that leave your heart full.
Thank you for choosing us, for trusting in what we do with so much love. For Don Emelio, this was a real milestone. And yes, we will treasure it forever,” they wrote on their Instagram account.
Far from any boast, the scene was simple and close. There was no attention-grabbing security display or gestures that broke with the naturalness of the moment.
Dressed in her fourteen-button naval uniform -white cap, frock coat, gloves and golden details-, Leonor was integrated as one more at the table, sharing dishes, chats and smiles with her companions.
The choice of the restaurant seems to respond to a desire to feel a little closer to home while still having an international experience.
The menu included delicacies such as ceviche, beef croquettes and rock fish, all dishes in tune with the proposal of chef Marcelo Assicie, who later confirmed to the local media 24Horas that the young people enjoyed “delicious fresh fish” fresh from the Pacific.
This moment of normality acquires even more value if one considers the recent context of the princess, marked by media exposure.
From leaked images in a shopping mall to bikini pictures published during a stop in Uruguay, Leonor has been under the spotlight without intending to.
Currently, the princess is on her second stop in Chile, in a journey that will last until June.
Since April 4, the crew of the Juan Sebastián Elcano has been in Valparaíso.