Calpe is famous for its diverse and rich gastronomic culture, which blends Mediterranean and Valencian traditions. The local cuisine is centered around seafood, fish, fresh vegetables, and olive oil, with paella being one of the most iconic dishes.
Calpe’s Seafood and Fish Restaurants
One of the biggest advantages of Calpe’s culinary scene is its proximity to the sea, making it a perfect spot for seafood lovers. Restaurants offer dishes such as:
- Fideuà — a variation of paella, but with thin noodles instead of rice, cooked with seafood.
- Arroz a banda — a rice dish cooked in fish stock and served with seafood.
- Calamares a la plancha — grilled squid served with olive oil and lemon.
One of the most popular seafood restaurants in Calpe is Baydal, located right at the port. This restaurant is known for offering fresh daily catches and traditional regional dishes.
At the port, you’ll also find numerous fish markets supplying local restaurants with fresh fish and shellfish. Coastal restaurants often offer “menú del día” (set lunch menus), featuring multiple seafood and fish dishes.
Traditional Valencian Cuisine
In addition to seafood, Calpe has many restaurants specializing in traditional Valencian dishes. One of the most notable is El Andaluz, which serves homemade cuisine with a focus on rice, fresh vegetables, and meats. Here, visitors must try paella, the most famous Spanish rice dish flavored with saffron, and cooked with seafood or meat.
Other recommended dishes include:
- Escabeche — marinated fish with vegetables and spices.
- Croquetas de jamón — croquettes with ham filling.
- Tortilla de patatas — Spanish potato omelet.
Fine Dining Restaurants
For gourmet lovers seeking upscale dishes and fine dining, Calpe has several highly regarded restaurants. One of the most renowned is Orobianco, which has been awarded a Michelin star. Orobianco offers a unique fusion of Italian and Spanish cuisine, using local ingredients. Guests can enjoy tasting menus with luxurious dishes, accompanied by fine wines.
Another notable fine dining establishment is Audrey’s by Rafa Soler, which also boasts a Michelin star. This restaurant is famous for its modern take on traditional recipes, offering unusual flavor combinations and using fresh, seasonal produce.
International Cuisine
Calpe is a cosmopolitan town that attracts people from all over the world, which is reflected in its diverse gastronomic offerings. The town has many international restaurants. Visitors can find Italian, French, Asian, and even Indian restaurants catering to all tastes.
For example, La Mamma Nostra serves authentic Italian pizzas and pastas, while El Santo is known for its Mexican cuisine and inventive cocktails.
Wine Pairing
Spain is famous for its wine, and Calpe offers a great opportunity to sample wines from local producers. Many restaurants feature a wide selection of wines from the Valencia region, as well as from La Rioja and other major wine-producing areas of Spain. Light white wines, such as Albariño or Verdejo, pair well with seafood dishes, while rich red wines like Tempranillo are perfect with meat and rabbit paella.
Conclusion
Calpe’s gastronomic scene is a true delight for food lovers. From simple seafood taverns to Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants, the town offers dishes for every palate and budget. Whether you’re craving traditional Spanish cuisine or seeking something more adventurous, Calpe will provide unforgettable culinary experiences.
