Seftel: Prado at Montelucia

The details about the showcase dining room at the new Intercontinental Montelucia Resort & Spa in Paradise Valley are finally emerging.

It’s going to be called Prado, named after the famous Madrid museum. In keeping with the resort’s Spanish theme and his own Slow Food philosophy, chef Claudio Urciuoli is developing an Andalusian-inspired menu featuring simple preparations and wood-grilling.

It promises to be exciting. Right now, Spain is Europe’s hottest gastronomic destination. And Andalusia is arguably Spain’s premier culinary region, drawing on historic Roman, Moorish, Sephardic and Iberian influences. The cuisine incorporates lots of sweet and savory flavor combinations, using fruit, honey, almonds and spices. And let’s hope Prado doesn’t neglect sherry, one of the world’s best, least-known and affordable spirits, which comes from the Andalusian town of Jerez.

Urciuoli is currently in Puerto Rico, helping launch a restaurant at a sister resort property. Prado is scheduled to open on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 4.

The private Villa pool with views of Camelback Mountain at Montelucia.