10 Best Restaurants In Valencia

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

When it comes to culinary delights, Valencia, the birthplace of paella holds a special place in my heart. With its vibrant food scene and rich gastronomic traditions, Spain's third-largest city is a haven for foodies like me. From traditional tapas to innovative fusion cuisine and amazing street food, Valencia offers a plethora of dining options that cater to every palate.

After years of exploring the city's culinary landscape, I have curated a foodie's guide to the best restaurants in Valencia that are guaranteed to take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey. So buckle up and get ready for a gastronomic adventure through the streets of Valencia.

1. Canalla Bistro

On my tour of Valencia I recently had the pleasure of dining in Valencia at the Canalla Bistro, a fusion restaurant located in the trendy Russafa neighborhood of Valencia. The restaurant is led by renowned chef Ricard Camarena, who has received several Michelin stars for his other Valencia Michelin-starred restaurants.

The menu at Bistro Canalla offers a unique twist on traditional Spanish tapas, incorporating flavors and ingredients from around the world. From the moment I walked in, I was impressed by the sleek and modern decor, which perfectly complements the innovative cuisine.

One of the standout dishes for me was the tuna tataki, which was expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. The crispy pork belly was another favorite, with a perfect balance of textures and spices. The menu also offers a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options, making it a great choice for diners with dietary restrictions.

Contact:

Address: Carrer del Mestre Josep Serrano, 5, 46005 València, Valencia, Spain

Phone: +34 963 74 05 09

2. Casa Carmela

Last year I got invited to dine at Casa Carmela, a renowned restaurant in Valencia that has been serving traditional Valencian cuisine since 1922. Located on the beachfront of Malvarrosa, Casa Carmela offers an amazing view of the Mediterranean Sea, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a family gathering.

Casa Carmela is best known for its paella across the city, a classic Spanish dish served in a large pan made with a perfectly thin layer of rice, saffron, and a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables.

Casa Carmela is a family restaurant that uses only the freshest ingredients to create their signature dish, which is cooked over an orange-wood fire to give it a unique smoky flavor. The seafood paella is a must-try delicacy, as it features a generous amount of fresh seafood that perfectly complements the rice.

Apart from being the home of paella, Casa Carmela also offers a variety of other Valencian dishes, including fideuà, a seafood dish made with short noodles, and all i pebre, a stew made with eel, potatoes, and garlic. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list featuring some of the best wines from the region.

Casa Carmela has been awarded a Michelin star, making it one of the best restaurants in Valencia to put on top of your list. The restaurant's interior is simple yet elegant, with white walls and wooden furniture that create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always happy to recommend dishes and wines that will suit your taste.

Contact:

Address: C/ d'Isabel de Villena, 155, 46011 València, Valencia, Spain

Phone: +34 963 71 00 73

3. Vuelve Carolina

If you are looking for a fine dining experience while visiting Valencia, Vuelve Carolina is one of the best Valencia restaurants. Located in the heart of the city, between the Plaza del Ayuntamiento and Calle Colón, this contemporary-style restaurant is a must-visit for foodies.

Vuelve Carolina is the brainchild of Quique Dacosta, a famous Spanish chef who has earned three Michelin stars for his restaurant, El Poblet. The restaurant's menu features a wide range of dishes, including a tasting menu that takes diners on a gastronomic journey through the world of Caribbean and Latin cuisine.

One of the standout dishes on the menu is the famous foie gras Cuba Libre, an emblematic dish by Quique Dacosta that is not to be missed. The restaurant also offers vegetarian-friendly, vegan options, and gluten-free options, making it a great choice for diners with dietary restrictions.

The restaurant's interior is just as impressive as the food, with a unique dining space that features air conditioning and counter dining. The sculpted, botanical-draped bar flows seamlessly into the restaurant, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

Contact:

Address: C/ de Correus, 8, 46002 València, Valencia, Spain

Phone: +34 963 21 86 86

4. Carmen De Ronda

Situated in Central Valencia, Carmen De Ronda offers a wide variety of Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine, with a focus on grilled meats and seafood.

The ambiance of the restaurant is cozy and inviting, with a rustic decor that adds to the charm. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they go out of their way to make sure you have a great dining experience.

One of the highlights of the menu is the steak, which is cooked to perfection and seasoned with just the right amount of spices. The wood-fired pizza is also a must-try, with a crispy crust and fresh toppings that burst with flavor.

For those who love barbecue, Carmen De Ronda offers a selection of grilled meats that are juicy and tender. The Iberian pork is a standout, with a rich and savory flavor that is sure to satisfy.

I highly recommend the Carmen De Ronda Grill Restaurant to anyone looking for a great dining experience in Valencia. With its delicious food, friendly staff, and cozy ambiance, it's the perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends and family.

Contact:

Address: C/ de Llorca, 3, 46018 València, Valencia, Spain

Phone: +34 960 26 25 70

5. El Poblet

A few months ago, me and my wife had the pleasure of dining at El Poblet, a renowned fine-dining restaurant in Valencia, Spain. This eponymous restaurant was originally named after chef Quique Dacosta his hometown, but now it bears his own name. The restaurant is located in the heart of Valencia and is known for its dedication to cooking with produce from the region, especially the beloved Albufera.

El Poblet is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that has been awarded the Michelin Green Star for its commitment to sustainability. The restaurant's chef, Luis Valls, is a master of haute cuisine based on the Valencian pantry. He incorporates innovative techniques and a commitment to using local, seasonal ingredients into his cooking.

The restaurant's interior is elegant and modern, with a relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The menu is a celebration of the region's culinary heritage, with dishes that showcase the best of Valencian cuisine.

During my visit, I enjoyed the tasting menu, which included dishes such as Roman lettuce with smoked eel and black garlic, red prawn with sea urchin and caviar, and a dessert of orange and chocolate with olive oil. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor.

Contact:

Address: C/ de Correus, 8, 46002 València, Valencia, Spain

Phone: +34 961 11 11 06

6. Restaurante El Cabanyal

In my opinion, one of the best places to eat in Valencia is Restaurante El Cabanyal. The restaurant is located in the El Canyamelar neighborhood, just a short walk from the beautiful Cabanyal Beach.

The restaurant specializes in Mediterranean and European food, with a focus on fish and seafood dishes. The menu offers a wide variety of options, including fresh seafood paella, which is a must-try when in Valencia.

What I appreciated most about the El Cabanyal restaurant was the quality of the ingredients used in their dishes. The fish was incredibly fresh and the flavors were perfectly balanced. The service was also exceptional, with an attentive staff who were happy to make recommendations and answer any questions we had.

In addition to the delicious food, the restaurant also has a lovely ambiance, with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The decor is simple and elegant, with a focus on natural materials like wood and stone.

Overall, I highly recommend Restaurante El Cabanyal for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in Valencia. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for a great meal, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit. And with its proximity to Malvarrosa Beach, it's the perfect spot for a relaxing meal after a day in the sun.

Contact:

Address: C/ de la Reina, 128, 46011 València, Valencia, Spain

Phone: +34 963 56 15 03

7. Casa Montaña

Casa Montaña is a charming tavern located in the Cabanyal district of Valencia. Founded in 1836, Casa Montaña is a historic establishment that offers refined tapas, tasting menus, and an extensive wine selection. It is part of the city's distinguished club of gourmet establishments and stands out for its exceptional service and quality of food in Valencia.

One of the highlights of my experience at Casa Montaña was the tapas. The menu features a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes, all expertly prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Some of the standout tapas included the habas estofadas emiliano, a stewed broad beans dish, and the Titaina telegraph, a type of fish salad. I also enjoyed the Txistorra, a type of Basque sausage, and the stewed broad beans.

Casa Montaña is also known for its impressive cava and wine list, which boasts bottles from over 1000 wineries around the world, all kept at a constant temperature and humidity. The staff knows the wines and can help you select the perfect pairing for your meal. I particularly enjoyed the Valencian wines by the glass, which are well represented on the list.

If you're a foodie city tripping in Valencia, Casa Montaña is a must-visit restaurant to enjoy tapas in Valencia. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. I highly recommend trying the horchata, a traditional Valencian drink made from tiger nuts, or the Agua de Valencia cocktail made with vodka and orange juice, which is a perfect complement to Valencia's best tapas.

Contact:

Address: C/ de Josep Benlliure, 69, 46011 València, Valencia, Spain

Phone: +34 963 67 23 14

8. Le Favole Ristorante

Le Favole Ristorante in the city of Valencia, is an Italian restaurant, situated in the Mercado Central neighborhood and is known for its healthy Neapolitan cuisine.

Upon arriving, I was impressed with the restaurant's cozy and welcoming atmosphere on the terrace. The staff was friendly and attentive, and the menu had a wide variety of dishes to choose from. As a lover of Italian food, I was excited to try their ravioli pasta and pizza.

I started with a Limoncello, which was the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. For my main course, I ordered the Linguine alle Vongole, which was a generous portion of pasta with clams in a white wine sauce. The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the clams were fresh and flavorful.

My dining companion ordered the Pizza Margherita, which was a classic Neapolitan pizza with tomato, mozzarella, and basil. The crust was thin and crispy, and the toppings were delicious.

Le Favole is the place to be for anyone looking for authentic Italian cuisine in Valencia. The food was excellent, the service was top-notch, and the vibe was cozy and inviting.

Contact:

Address: C/ de l'Hedra, 5, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain

Phone: +34 961 67 26 30

9. Alqueria del Pou

On one of my trips to Valencia I bumped into the Alqueria Del Pou Restaurant. This Mediterranean and Spanish restaurant eatery has a cozy and elegant atmosphere, with a beautiful decor and comfortable seating to spend your evening in Valencia.

One of the highlights of the menu is their paella Valenciana, a traditional Valencian dish made with rice, saffron, and a variety of meats such as rabbit. The paella at Alqueria Del Pou was cooked to perfection, with a delicious blend of flavors and textures.

In addition to the authentic paella, I also tried their pintxos and tapas, which were equally impressive. The tiramisu, and torrijas I had were mouthwatering desserts that ended my meal on a high note.

It's worth noting that Alqueria Del Pou sources many of their ingredients from the nearby Albufera Natural Park, which is known for its rice paddies and fresh seafood. This commitment to using local and sustainable ingredients adds to the overall quality and authenticity of the dishes.

Contact:

Address: Entrada Rico, 6, 46013 València, Valencia, Spain

10. Manaw - Nikkei Bar

One of my personal favorites to eat in Valencia is the Manaw - Nikkei Bar, as it is one of the best dining experiences I have had in the city. This fusion restaurant offers a unique blend of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, which results in a flavor explosion that is sure to tantalize the taste buds of even the most discerning foodies.

Located on Calle Adresadors, in the center of El Mercat or Valencia's central market, the Manaw Nikkei Restaurant boasts a stylish and modern decor that creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant has received numerous accolades, including a Travelers' Choice award in 2022, and it is easy to see why.

The menu here is a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian food, and it offers a range of dishes that are sure to please any palate. The ceviche mixto, tuna, and octopus are among the standout dishes, and I highly recommend trying them. The restaurant also offers a range of desserts, including fruitcake, sesame ice cream, and brownies, which are the perfect way to end your meal.

If you're a foodie looking for a unique dining experience in Valencia, then the Manaw - Nikkei Bar is one of the best restaurants to visit in Valencia. The restaurant has not been awarded a Michelin star, but it is still a hidden gem that is sure to impress. The prices are reasonable, and the service is top-notch, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

Contact:

Address: Carrer dels Adreçadors, 10, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain

Phone: +34 960 69 16 32