Princess Leonor took advantage of her stay in Valparaíso, Chile, to go out for lunch with several midshipmen from the training ship Juan Sebastián Elcano. She did so on the very Friday of her arrival in Chile, still dressed in her characteristic blue uniform known as "14 buttons."
The chosen destination was "Don Emelio," a restaurant located in Viña del Mar, 15 minutes from the port. The visit was not planned, which surprised the restaurant owners, who described the moment as a "gift" and compared it to "winning the lottery."
An unexpected stop with a Spanish flavor
Marcelo Assicie, the restaurant owner, recounted how the heir to the Spanish throne arrived at the establishment by chance. According to him, the group was looking for a quiet place after 14 days of sailing and found the ideal atmosphere in his restaurant.
Privacy, courtesy, and a menu with homemade flavor
To ensure their comfort, the restaurant owners closed off a section of the venue and asked diners not to take photos. Everyone agreed with complete understanding. Assicie highlighted that Leonor was approachable and simple, despite her position, and especially appreciated her friendliness.
The group enjoyed ceviche, fresh fish, and shredded beef croquettes, one of the most popular dishes at the place. According to the owner, everyone ate well and paid their share, leaving an indelible impression on the staff.
El mensaje de sorpresa y agradecimiento de los dueños del restaurante donde la futura reina de España paró a almorzar en Chile (Instagram).
"The princess was very kind. She asked for everything politely, constantly thanked," Assicie expressed. His wife, of Spanish origin, had the opportunity to take a photo with Leonor thanks to one of the escorts, who offered it before the group left.
"It was something we will never forget," wrote the restaurant team alongside an image shared on social media, where the princess is seen posing with two companions, the owners, and the chef. "They ate well, shared in tranquility... and left with a smile," they added.
La fografía compartida en el Instagram del restaurante donde la princesa Leonor paró a comer con sus compañeros del Elcano.
The protection of her privacy, at the center of the debate
The gesture contrasts with what happened days earlier in Punta Arenas, where security cameras at a shopping center recorded Leonor during an outing. The images were leaked to the local press, prompting an official complaint from the Royal House for considering the action an unacceptable violation of data protection regulations. Just like the photo released during her visit to Uruguay where the princess is seen in a bikini.
Until Tuesday, the princess will remain on land.Then she will resume the journey heading to Peru, on a trip that, despite the difficulties, already leaves unique postcards like her unexpected lunch in Viña del Mar.
