The Costa Blanca is a sun-drenched stretch of coastline in Spain’s Alicante province. It is famous for its turquoise waters. It is also known for its golden beaches. But for the savvy traveler, this region is a feast for more than just the eyes. It’s a culinary goldmine. Traditional flavors meet modern innovation here. Every meal is a chance to connect with local culture. Forget the guidebooks; your tastebuds are the only map you need.

The Best Bites: A Guide to Authentic Dining

The food scene in Costa Blanca is a celebration of the Mediterranean diet. Rice, fresh seafood, and locally sourced vegetables are the stars of the show.

Rice is King: It’s impossible to talk about dining here without mentioning rice dishes. This isn’t just paella; it’s an entire culinary art form.

• Arroz a Banda: A local specialty, “rice apart” is made by cooking rice in a rich fish broth. The fish and seafood are served separately. The result is an intensely flavorful, saffron-infused rice that is a true taste of the sea.
• Arroz con Costra: A more rustic, inland dish. This hearty rice dish is baked with a layer of egg on top. It often contains a mix of chicken, rabbit, and local sausages. It’s a comforting meal that showcases the region’s agricultural roots.

Seafood Straight from the Sea: With fishing ports like Dénia and Calpe, the seafood is as fresh as it gets. You can find restaurants where the day’s catch is displayed on ice, and you simply point to what you want.

• Gambas Rojas de Dénia: These bright red prawns are a local delicacy, prized for their sweet and delicate flavor. They are often simply grilled with a touch of sea salt to highlight their natural taste.
• Caldereta de Pescado y Marisco: This is a traditional fishermen’s stew. The hearty dish is a beautiful mix of whatever fresh fish and shellfish are available. It is slow-cooked in a savory broth.

Tasting the Traditions: For a true taste of the local culture, explore the tapas scene.

• La Taberna del Gourmet (Alicante): This spot is an institution in the city. It takes classic tapas and elevates them with fresh, high-quality ingredients. It’s a perfect place to start your tapas journey.
• Mercado Central (Alicante): The central market is a feast for the senses. Walk around and sample local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh produce. Many stalls have small bars where you can enjoy a drink and a tapa.

Culinary Destinations: From Street Food to Michelin Stars

The Costa Blanca offers a dining experience for every budget, from cheap eats to world-class fine dining.

The High End:

• Quique Dacosta (Dénia): A three-Michelin-star restaurant that is considered one of the best in the world. Chef Quique Dacosta takes local ingredients and transforms them into avant-garde, artistic masterpieces. This is not just a meal; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime gastronomic event. A tasting menu here can cost several hundred euros, but for a special occasion, it’s an unparalleled experience.
• BonAmb (Jávea): A two-Michelin-star gem that offers a creative, sophisticated take on Mediterranean cuisine. The beautiful setting and impeccable service complement the innovative menu, which focuses on sustainable, locally sourced produce. A tasting menu typically ranges from €100-€150 per person.

The Mid-Range:

• Tula Restaurante (Jávea): Awarded a Michelin star, this small, intimate restaurant focuses on creative dishes using local fish and seafood. It’s a fantastic example of high-quality dining without the prohibitive price tag of a multi-star establishment. Expect to pay around €50-€80 for a full meal.
• Orobianco (Calpe): Orobianco is the only Italian restaurant in Spain with a Michelin star. It offers a stunning blend of Italian tradition and local ingredients. This is all set against breathtaking views.

Budget-Friendly & Authentic:

• “Menu del Día”: A classic Spanish tradition. The “menu of the day” is a set-price lunch. It includes a starter, main course, dessert, and a drink. Prices typically range from €10 to €20 and offer incredible value, providing a filling and delicious meal. Look for signs outside local taverns and bars.
• Street Food: Start your day with a simple “tosta” with tomato and olive oil for breakfast. Try a “coca,” a type of flatbread with toppings. You can eat incredibly well and cheaply by embracing the local street food scene.

The Cocktail Experience: A Liquid Journey

The culinary adventure doesn’t stop with food. The Costa Blanca’s cocktail scene is thriving, with a focus on fresh ingredients, imaginative mixes, and stunning views.

• Skybars and Rooftops: Head to the rooftops for a drink with a view. Suitopia Skybar in Calpe offers a 360-degree panorama of the sea and the iconic Peñón d’Ifach. In Jávea, places like La Bambula offer a chic beach club vibe with an excellent cocktail menu.
• Artisanal Mixology: Seek out a speakeasy or a dedicated cocktail lounge. These spots are where the magic happens. Look for drinks infused with local herbs like rosemary or thyme. Find a spicy twist on a classic like a Spicy Mezcal Margarita.
• Cocktail Workshops: For an immersive experience, consider a cocktail workshop in a place like Calpe. You can learn to craft classics like mojitos. You can also craft a piña colada while enjoying the sound of the ocean. All of this is for a reasonable price. It’s a fun, hands-on activity that’s perfect for a group.

The Costa Blanca proves that travel is about more than sightseeing; it’s about connecting with a place through its flavors. So, grab a fork, raise a glass, and let your tastebuds guide you through this delicious corner of the world.