Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Valencia
Discover the 6 best local and traditional foods to try in Valencia. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Paella Valenciana
This iconic rice dish is a symbol of Valencia, traditionally made with chicken, rabbit, and green beans, and flavored with saffron. It’s often cooked in a wide, shallow pan and served straight from the fire.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch
Cultural Significance
Paella originated in the fields of Valencia, representing local agricultural traditions and community gatherings.
Where to try it
Fideuà
Similar to paella, this dish uses thin noodles instead of rice and is typically made with seafood like squid and prawns. It’s served with alioli, a garlic mayonnaise, adding a delicious twist.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch
Cultural Significance
Fideuà was created by fishermen in Gandía, near Valencia, as a way to use up leftover seafood.
Where to try it
All i Pebre
A traditional eel stew from Valencia, made with eels, potatoes, garlic, and paprika. It’s a hearty dish that showcases the region’s connection to the nearby Albufera lagoon.
Ingredients
Best Time
dinner
Cultural Significance
All i Pebre reflects the fishing heritage of Valencia, particularly in the Albufera area, where eel fishing is prevalent.
Where to try it
Tarta de Santiago
A sweet almond cake with a hint of lemon flavor, decorated with powdered sugar and the Cross of Saint James. It’s a popular dessert that reflects the region's history and culinary influences.
Ingredients
Best Time
dessert
Cultural Significance
Originally from Galicia, this cake is widely enjoyed in Valencia, showcasing the region’s love for sweets and almond-based desserts.
Where to try it
Churros con Chocolate
A beloved snack in Valencia, these deep-fried dough pastries are served with a rich, thick chocolate for dipping. They’re perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
Ingredients
Best Time
breakfast
Cultural Significance
Churros are a popular snack throughout Spain, but in Valencia, they are enjoyed with a unique twist of a thick chocolate dip.
Where to try it
Horchata de Chufa
A refreshing beverage made from tiger nuts, water, and sugar, horchata is a traditional drink in Valencia, especially popular during the summer months. It’s often paired with fartons, sweet pastries.
Ingredients
Best Time
afternoon
Cultural Significance
Horchata is a staple drink in Valencia, highlighting the region's agricultural production of tiger nuts in the Albufera area.