Feasting in Benidorm: A Culinary Travel Guide
Welcome, food-loving travelers, to the bustling seaside city of Benidorm! Nestled on the Costa Blanca of Spain, Benidorm is a destination that marries stunning beaches with a lively food scene. Here’s your comprehensive guide to discovering and savoring the gastronomic treasures of Benidorm, in a friendly, easy-to-follow format.
A Foodie’s Introduction to Benidorm
Benidorm, with its skyscraper-lined beaches and energetic nightlife, has evolved into a culinary hotspot. It takes pride in its Mediterranean cuisine with dishes that resonate with the freshness of the sea, the warmth of the Spanish sun, and the richness of locally grown ingredients. From the hustle and bustle of the tapas alleys to the serenity of fine dining restaurants overlooking the sea, there’s a culinary adventure waiting for you in every corner.
Local Delicacies You Can’t Miss
Tapas
No trip to Benidorm would be complete without sampling a variety of tapas. These small bites are a Spanish tradition and offer an explosion of flavors. While each region has its own specialty, common tapas you’ll find in Benidorm include patatas bravas (fried potatoes in spicy tomato sauce), albondigas (meatballs in sauce), and gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns).
Arroz a la Banda
This local specialty is a must-try for any seafood lover. Arroz a la banda is a type of paella, but with a twist. It’s cooked with fish stock and served with aioli sauce, offering an indulgent taste of the Mediterranean Sea.
Turrón
This traditional Spanish nougat is particularly famous in the Alicante province. The sweet delight, made from honey, sugar, egg whites, and almonds, is a delightful end to any meal. In Benidorm, you’ll find various types of turrón, from the hard Alicante style to the soft Jijona style.
Dining Destinations
Tapas Alley
In the heart of Benidorm’s old town, you’ll find the famous ‘Tapas Alley’, a narrow street filled with bars and restaurants serving a variety of tapas. This is a great place to start your gastronomic journey in Benidorm. Mix and match different dishes, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this charming spot.
Seafront Restaurants
For those craving a side of scenic beauty with their meal, Benidorm’s seafront restaurants are a perfect choice. Here, you can indulge in exquisite Mediterranean dishes while taking in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Food Markets and Local Shops
Mercadillo Pueblo
For the freshest local produce, head to Mercadillo Pueblo, Benidorm’s largest open-air market. Open every Wednesday and Sunday, this bustling market offers a colorful array of fruits, vegetables, local cheeses, olives, and more. This is also a great place to taste local delicacies and even take some home as souvenirs.
Benidorm Municipal Market
Located in the heart of the city, Benidorm Municipal Market is an indoor market that offers a variety of fresh food. From freshly caught seafood to locally grown fruits and vegetables, you’ll find an array of local ingredients here. This market also houses various specialty food shops where you can discover a variety of Spanish cheeses, cured meats, local wines, and other Spanish delicacies.
Culinary Events
Benidorm Gastronomy Week
If your travel schedule allows, try to plan your visit around the annual Benidorm Gastronomy Week, usually held in May. This culinary event brings together local restaurants, showcasing their creativity and talent through special menus and events. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore Benidorm’s culinary scene in a festive, community-driven atmosphere.
Food Tours
If you’re a foodie traveler who wants to dive deep into Benidorm’s gastronomy, joining a food tour can be a wonderful experience. These tours guide you through the best eateries, markets, and food spots in the city, offering you a chance to taste and learn about local cuisine and culture from knowledgeable guides.
Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Benidorm
While Spanish cuisine is typically meat and seafood-heavy, don’t worry if you’re vegetarian or vegan! Benidorm offers several restaurants and cafes catering to plant-based diets. Restaurants such as Fresh Food Café and Paneil’s offer a variety of delicious vegan and vegetarian dishes. Also, don’t forget to try Spain’s traditional vegetarian tapas such as patatas bravas, pimientos de padron (fried green peppers), and berenjenas con miel (fried eggplant with honey).
From the freshest tapas to the most satisfying paella, the food scene in Benidorm is a vibrant reflection of its culture. A trip to this beautiful seaside city would not be complete without exploring its culinary landscape. The city’s restaurants, food markets, and culinary events provide a plethora of opportunities to taste and appreciate the diverse food culture. So come with an open heart and an empty stomach, and savor the gastronomic journey that Benidorm has to offer.