The Costa Blanca, located on Spain's east coast, is known not only for its beautiful beaches and Mediterranean climate, but also for its excellent culinary scene. From traditional Spanish tapas to modern fusion dishes, the region offers a delicious journey through Spanish cuisine. In this guide, we share the best restaurants you should definitely visit during your stay on the Costa Blanca.
Why the Costa Blanca is a culinary paradise
The Costa Blanca benefits from a unique combination of factors that make it a culinary paradise:
- Fresh local ingredients: From the sea to the mountains
- Traditional recipes: Passed down from generation to generation
- Modern influences: International chefs settling here
- Favorable climate: Fresh products all year round
- Culture of eating together: The Spanish tradition of conviviality
Top Restaurants in Benissa and Surroundings
1. Restaurante La Galera – Benissa
Location: Calle Mayor, Benissa
Specialty: Traditional Spanish cuisine
Price level: €€
La Galera is a hidden gem in the historic center of Benissa. This family-run restaurant serves authentic Spanish dishes in a charming setting. Their Valencian paella is legendary, made with fresh seafood and local saffron.
Must-try dishes:
- Valencian Paella
- Gambas al Ajillo (garlic shrimp)
- Crema Catalana (dessert)
2. Xiringuito Olala – Calpe
Location: Playa de la Fossa, Calpe
Specialty: Mediterranean fish dishes
Price level: €€€
Located right on Calpe's beach, Xiringuito Olala offers an unforgettable dining experience with ocean views. Their specialty is fresh fish, straight from local fishing boats to your plate.
Must-try dishes:
- Dorada a la Sal (salted sea bream)
- Arroz Negro (black rice with squid)
- Fresh Oysters
3. Cuina de Dos – Altea
Location: Carrer Major, Altea
Specialty: Fusion tapas
Price level: €€
Cuina de Dos combines traditional Spanish flavors with modern cooking techniques. Their tapas are a true discovery, perfect for a cozy evening with friends.
Must-try dishes:
- Croquetas de Jamón Ibérico
- Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician octopus)
- Patatas Bravas with homemade sauce
Fine Dining Experiences
4. Restaurante Vall de Pop – Jalón Valley
Location: Jalón Valley
Specialty: Modern Spanish cuisine
Price level: €€€€
Located in the beautiful Jalón Valley, this restaurant offers a unique combination of local ingredients and modern cooking techniques. The chef uses only seasonal produce from local farmers.
Must-try dishes:
- Foie Gras with apple compote
- Rack of lamb with rosemary
- Chocolate Soufflé
5. Atlas – Moraira
Location: Moraira
Specialty: Moroccan-Spanish fusion
Price level: €€€
Atlas combines the best of both worlds: traditional Moroccan flavors with Spanish ingredients. The atmospheric decor and friendly service make this an unforgettable experience.
Must-try dishes:
- Couscous with lamb
- Fish tagine
- Mint tea with traditional biscuits
Affordable Dining Options
6. Bar Trinquet – Benissa
Location: Benissa center
Specialty: Traditional tapas
Price level: €
Bar Trinquet is a local favorite for affordable and authentic tapas. The atmosphere is cozy and informal, perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner.
Must-try dishes:
- Spanish tortilla
- Meatballs
- Pimientos de Padrón
7. L'Espigó Xiringuito – Calpe
Location: Benissa beach
Specialty: Fresh fish and seafood
Price level: €€
This beach bar serves the best fresh fish in the region. The simple preparation allows the natural flavors of the seafood to shine.
Must-try dishes:
- Gambas a la Plancha (grilled shrimp)
- Calamari Fritos
- Fresh Fish of the Day
International Kitchens
8. Kathmandu – Moraira
Location: Moraira
Specialty: Indian/Nepalese
Price level: €€
For a change of pace, Kathmandu offers authentic Indian and Nepalese dishes. The owner is from Nepal and brings authentic flavors of the Himalayas to the Costa Blanca.
Must-try dishes:
- Chicken Tikka Masala
- Lamb Curry
- Naan Bread
9. Restaurante la Galera – Brazilian influences
Location: Altea
Specialty: Brazilian-Spanish fusion
Price level: €€
A unique combination of Brazilian and Spanish flavors, created by a Brazilian chef who fell in love with Spanish cuisine.
Must-try dishes:
- Feijoada (Brazilian stew)
- Churrasco (Brazilian barbecue)
- Caipirinha cocktails
Tips for Visiting Restaurants
Best Times to Eat
- Lunch: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Spanish tradition)
- Dinner: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM (later than in the Netherlands)
- Tapas: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (before dinner)
Reservations
Popular restaurants**: Reservations recommended
– **Weekends**: Always make a reservation
– **Season**: July-August extra busy
Local Eating Habits
– **Tapas**: Perfect for sharing
– **Paella**: Traditionally on Thursday
– **Siesta**: Many restaurants close between 4pm and 8pm
Budget Tips
Save Money Without Losing Quality
1. **Menu del Día**: Daily specials are often cheaper
2. **Tapas sharing**: More variety for less money
3. **Lunch instead of dinner**: Often cheaper
4. **Local recommendations**: Ask locals for tips
5. **Seasonal**: Outside the high season, prices are lower
Special Dietary Requirements
Vegetarian Options
– **La Galera**: Excellent vegetarian paella
– **Cuina de Dos**: Modern vegetarian tapas
– **Atlas**: Traditional Moroccan vegetarian dishes
Gluten-free options
– **Xiringuito Olala**: Fresh fish without gluten
– **Bar Trinquet**: Traditional dishes often gluten-free
– **Kathmandu**: Many dishes are naturally gluten-free
Wine and Beverages
Local Wines
– **Alicante DO**: Red wines from the region
– **Jumilla DO**: Powerful red wines
– **Utiel-Requena DO**: White and red wines
Traditional Drinks
– **Horchata**: Almond milk drink
– **Agua de Valencia**: Cocktail with cava and orange juice
– **Cerveza**: Local beers
Summary
The Costa Blanca offers a culinary adventure for every taste and budget. From traditional Spanish dishes to international fusion, there's always something new to discover. The combination of fresh ingredients, passionate chefs, and the Mediterranean atmosphere makes every meal an unforgettable experience.
**Our top recommendations:**
– For traditional Spanish cuisine: La Galera
– For fresh fish: Xiringuito Olala
– For tapas: Bar Trinquet
– For fine dining: Restaurante Vall de Pop
– For international flavors: Kathmandu
About Casa Benissa
Casa Benissa offers not only excellent training facilities but also a perfect base for exploring the culinary treasures of the Costa Blanca. Our Benissa location is ideally situated for visiting the region's finest restaurants.
**Interested in staying on the Costa Blanca?**
Take contact Contact us for more information about our accommodation and training facilities.
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*This article is based on personal experiences and local recommendations. Prices and availability may vary by season.*
**Tags:** Costa Blanca, restaurants, Spanish cuisine, tapas, paella, Benissa, Calpe, Altea, culinary trip, Spain
