New Alicante food guide takes visitors from local tapas bars to traditional rice dishes

Food lovers have a new way to eat their way around Alicante following the launch of a guide celebrating the city’s restaurants, traditional dishes and local produce.

Alicante, from bar to table has been produced by the Municipal Tourism Board to showcase the city’s culinary scene to residents and visitors.

The guide features restaurants and bars recognised for their quality, while also introducing some of the dishes, ingredients and gastronomic traditions that have helped shape Alicante’s food culture.

Restaurants and bars take centre stage

Among the businesses featured are the city’s Michelin-starred restaurant, nine establishments with Repsol Suns and 29 with Repsol Soletes.

Another 34 businesses carry the Alicante City of Rice distinction, while 13 are included within the Exquisit Mediterrani category.

Rather than simply providing a restaurant directory, the guide encourages readers to explore different parts of Alicante while discovering the food associated with the city.

That means visitors can use it both to find somewhere to eat and to learn more about the flavours and dishes they are likely to encounter during their stay.

Alicante’s famous rice dishes

Rice naturally gets plenty of attention, reflecting its importance in local cuisine.

Recipes featured in the guide include Alicante favourites such as arroz a banda, senyoret rice and rice with pork and vegetables, as well as the traditional caldero.

Other local specialities include cocas, salted fish, nougat and wines, giving readers an introduction to products associated with Alicante and the surrounding province.

The guide aims to show that the city’s food scene extends from traditional recipes and local produce to restaurants receiving national recognition.

Food experiences around the city

Visitors looking for something more hands-on can also discover gastronomic experiences rather than simply sitting down for a meal.

Options highlighted include tours of Alicante Central Market, tapas routes, rice-cooking workshops and tastings at Santa Barbara Castle.

These activities provide another way to explore the city while learning about the ingredients, recipes and traditions behind its cuisine.

Tourism councillor Ana Poquet said the initiative continues the momentum created by Alicante’s year as Spanish Capital of Gastronomy.

The new publication will also be used to promote the city’s culinary attractions beyond Alicante itself.

The guide can be consulted online at alicanteturismo.com, while 3,000 printed copies have been produced for distribution at tourism fairs and promotional events.