Best Local Dishes of Valencia and Where to Try Them

Valencia, a paradise for food enthusiasts, is famous for its mouth-watering local cuisine and dynamic food scene.

From the globally acclaimed paella to the irresistible street foods, let us take you on a gastronomic journey to experience the best of Valencia.

Paella Valenciana: Valencia’s Heart on a Plate

You can’t say you’ve truly experienced Valencia without savoring Paella Valenciana, our city’s pride and joy. This iconic dish, traditionally crafted with rice, chicken, rabbit, and an assortment of local veggies, is cooked to perfection in a broad, shallow pan. The secret to an impeccable paella? It’s all in the socarrat, the crispy layer of rice at the bottom of the pan. For an authentic taste of paella, make your way to La Pepica, a beachside restaurant loved by locals. Casa Roberto is another fantastic choice, known for its traditional recipes and warm atmosphere. Our favourite one is still Restaurante El Palmar. Please remember that tradition is to enjoy paella exclusively at lunch, and we kindly ask for your patience as the preparation of paella requires time.

Enjoy your culinary adventure in this vibrant and flavorful city!

Horchata and Fartons: Valencia’s Sweet Summer Duo

Beat the heat with a chilled glass of horchata, a traditional Valencian drink made from tiger nuts, water, and sugar. This sweet, slightly nutty beverage is the perfect refreshment on a hot day. Pair it with fartons, elongated pastries perfect for dipping into the horchata. This delightful duo is a local favorite, especially during the sizzling summer months. For the best horchata and fartons in town, visit Horchatería Santa Catalina, a historic spot in the city center. Horchatería El Siglo is another must-visit, continuing to charm both tourists and locals with its timeless appeal.

Esgarraet: A Symphony of Flavors in a Simple Tapa

Esgarraet, a delightful Valencian tapa, is a harmonious blend of roasted red peppers, salted cod, and garlic, all drizzled with olive oil. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for sharing over a glass of local wine. The sweet peppers and salty cod create a unique taste that is quintessentially Valencian. For an authentic esgarraet experience, try Casa Montaña, a historic tavern renowned for its traditional Spanish dishes. Bodega La Aldeana 1927 is another excellent venue, where the ambiance and flavors transport you back in time.

Buñuelos: Valencia’s Golden Delight

Buñuelos, pumpkin fritters dusted with sugar and served hot, are particularly popular during the Las Fallas festival. These golden, crispy treats are a delightful mix of soft inside and crunchy outside, making them simply irresistible. You can find them at various street stalls during the festival, but for a year-round treat, visit Horchatería El Collado, known for making some of the best buñuelos in the city. For a modern twist, try the variations offered at Dulce de Leche Boutique.

All i Pebre: A Culinary Adventure for the Bold

All i Pebre, a traditional Valencian stew made with eel, garlic, and paprika, is a must-try for adventurous foodies. The savory, rich flavors of All i Pebre are best enjoyed at El Palmar, a village near Valencia known for its authentic preparation of this classic dish. The dish showcases the region’s fishing traditions and its ability to create hearty, flavorful meals from simple ingredients. Restaurante L’Establiment in El Palmar is particularly famous for its All i Pebre.

Turrón: Valencia’s Sweet Christmas Tradition

Turrón, a traditional Spanish sweet made from almonds and honey, is especially popular during Christmas. Valencia is famous for its high-quality turrón, and you can find a variety of flavors and textures, from the hard Alicante style to the soft Jijona version. For the finest selection, visit Turronería Daniel, a shop with a long history of producing some of the best turrón in the region. For a wider selection, explore the offerings at El Artesano or visit the Central Market where numerous vendors sell their handmade turrón.

Agua de Valencia: Valencia’s Zesty Celebration in a Glass

Agua de Valencia is a refreshing cocktail made with cava, orange juice, vodka, and gin. This zesty drink is perfect for a warm evening out in Valencia. It’s a celebratory drink, often enjoyed during festive occasions. To enjoy the best Agua de Valencia, head to Café de las Horas, a charming bar known for its expertly mixed cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. For an alternative venue, visit the Café Infanta, which also serves an excellent version of this iconic cocktail.

Cremaet: The Perfect End to a Valencian Feast

Cremaet is a Valencian coffee drink that combines espresso with sugar, cinnamon, lemon peel, and a splash of rum, which is then flamed to reduce the alcohol content. This drink is the perfect way to end a meal, providing a warming and flavorful finish. The rich aroma of coffee mixed with the sweetness of the rum makes it a delightful treat. Try it at Bar Cremaet, where they specialize in this unique Valencian coffee. Another excellent place is Café Sant Jaume, where you can enjoy Cremaet in a historic setting.

Valencia’s culinary delights are not to be missed