What to Eat in Valencia?
Valencia is not only famous for its beautiful beaches and futuristic architecture — it’s also one of Spain’s most celebrated culinary destinations. The city’s cuisine reflects a perfect balance between the Mediterranean Sea, fertile farmland, and centuries of tradition. From the birthplace of paella to refreshing local drinks like horchata, Valencia offers a rich and flavorful food culture that every visitor should experience.
Below is an in-depth guide to the best traditional dishes, drinks, and food experiences to enjoy in Valencia.
1. Paella Valenciana – The Signature Dish of Valencia
If there’s one dish you must try in Valencia, it’s paella, which actually originated here. Unlike the seafood version popular in other parts of Spain, the authentic Paella Valenciana is made with chicken, rabbit, green beans, and butter beans, often flavored with saffron and rosemary.
What makes it special:
- Traditionally cooked over a wood fire in a wide, shallow pan.
- Uses locally grown Bomba rice, which perfectly absorbs the flavors of the broth.
- Considered a symbol of Valencian identity.
Where to try it:
- El Palmar (in Albufera Natural Park) for the most authentic version.
- Well-known city restaurants like La Pepica, Casa Roberto, or Restaurante Levante.
2. Arroz a Banda – Fishermen’s Rice Dish
This flavorful rice dish comes from the Valencian coast and is typically made by fishermen using the catch of the day. The name means “rice on the side,” because originally, the fish was served separately from the rice.
Ingredients:
Fish stock, garlic, paprika, saffron, and local rice — creating a rich, deep flavor without seafood pieces mixed in.
Why try it:
It’s a great alternative to paella if you want a rice dish with a stronger seafood essence.
3. Fideuà – Paella’s Cousin Made with Noodles
A popular coastal dish similar to paella but made with short noodles (fideuà) instead of rice. It’s typically cooked with seafood such as squid, prawns, and cuttlefish.
Why try it:
It offers the same smoky, savory flavor as paella but with a unique texture and taste.
Best places to try:
Beachfront restaurants in El Cabanyal or Malvarrosa.
4. All i Pebre – A Traditional Eel Stew
This is one of Valencia’s oldest and most traditional dishes, especially popular in the Albufera region. It’s made with freshwater eels, potatoes, paprika, garlic, and olive oil, all simmered into a hearty stew.
Why try it:
It’s a taste of authentic rural Valencia and a favorite among locals.
Best enjoyed:
In local restaurants around El Palmar, where the dish originated.
5. Esgarraet – A Classic Valencian Salad
A light and flavorful cold dish made from salted codfish, roasted red peppers, olive oil, and garlic.
Why try it:
It’s simple yet delicious, showcasing the region’s love for fresh, high-quality ingredients and olive oil.
When to eat it:
As a tapa or appetizer, especially in traditional bars.
6. Tosta de Sobrasada or Embutidos – Local Meats and Tapas
Valencia has a rich tradition of cured meats and sausages, often enjoyed as tapas.
- Sobrasada: A soft, spreadable sausage from the Balearic Islands that’s popular in Valencia.
- Embutidos: A variety of cured sausages and cold cuts, often served with crusty bread and local wine.
Why try it:
It’s a great way to sample local flavors while enjoying tapas culture.
7. Horchata and Fartons – The Quintessential Valencian Snack
A visit to Valencia wouldn’t be complete without trying horchata (orxata), a refreshing, sweet, and milky drink made from tiger nuts (chufas). It’s traditionally served cold and paired with fartons, long, soft pastries perfect for dipping.
Why try it:
It’s one of Valencia’s most beloved summer traditions and completely unique to the region.
Best places to try:
- Horchatería Santa Catalina (historic and iconic).
- Daniel in Alboraya, known as the home of horchata.
8. Agua de Valencia – The Local Cocktail
A delicious and refreshing cocktail made from fresh orange juice, cava (Spanish sparkling wine), vodka, and gin.
Why try it:
It’s light, fruity, and perfectly captures Valencia’s sunny Mediterranean vibe.
Best enjoyed:
At a terrace bar in the evening, especially in the Old Town or Ruzafa district.
9. Buñuelos de Calabaza – Pumpkin Fritters
These are small, round, deep-fried doughnuts made with pumpkin and dusted with sugar. They’re especially popular during the Las Fallas Festival in March.
Why try it:
They’re a sweet, traditional treat often enjoyed with hot chocolate.
Where to find them:
Street stalls and local bakeries during festivals or cold months.
10. Coca de Llanda – Traditional Valencian Cake
A soft, rectangular sponge cake, slightly flavored with lemon or orange zest, and baked in a metal tray (llanda).
Why try it:
It’s a typical homemade dessert, often eaten for breakfast or with afternoon coffee.
11. Local Citrus Fruits – Valencia Oranges and Beyond
Valencia is world-famous for its oranges, thanks to its fertile soil and Mediterranean climate. You can enjoy freshly squeezed orange juice almost anywhere in the city.
Why try it:
It’s simple, fresh, and truly local — the taste of Valencia in its purest form.
12. Tapas and Pinchos Culture
While tapas originated in Andalusia, Valencia has fully embraced this Spanish dining tradition.
Popular tapas include:
- Patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy sauce)
- Croquetas (creamy croquettes filled with ham or cheese)
- Calamares a la romana (fried squid rings)
Best areas for tapas:
- El Carmen – For traditional tapas bars.
- Ruzafa – For trendy and modern twists on classic dishes.
Summary: Must-Try Valencian Foods
| Type | Dish | Why Try It |
| ----------- | ---------------------- | --------------------------------------- |
| Main Dish | Paella Valenciana | Signature local dish, rich in tradition |
| Seafood | Fideuà / Arroz a Banda | Unique coastal flavors |
| Traditional | All i Pebre | Authentic eel stew from Albufera |
| Snack | Horchata and Fartons | Refreshing and iconic local combo |
| Dessert | Buñuelos de Calabaza | Classic festival sweet |
| Drink | Agua de Valencia | Fruity cocktail with cava |
| Produce | Valencia Oranges | Fresh and world-renowned citrus |
Final Thoughts
Valencia’s cuisine is a celebration of its Mediterranean roots, agricultural heritage, and creative spirit. Whether you’re enjoying a traditional paella by the lagoon, sipping horchata in a historic café, or exploring the vibrant tapas bars of Ruzafa, you’ll discover that Valencian food is about simplicity, freshness, and flavor.
Every dish tells a story — of the sea, the soil, and the proud local traditions that make Valencia one of Spain’s most delicious destinations.
