Valencia is a vibrant autonomous community on Spain's eastern Mediterranean coast, renowned as the birthplace of paella and home to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. The region stretches from the Pyrenean foothills to sun-kissed beaches along the Costa Blanca and Costa del Azahar, offering a blend of ancient heritage, modern architecture, and world-class cuisine.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Ricard Camarena Restaurant
Chef Ricard Camarena's flagship restaurant holds 2 Michelin stars and 3 Repsol suns. Celebrated for its creative use of Valencian seasonal produce, the tasting menus are a journey through the region's finest ingredients.
C/ del Doctor Sumsi, 4, 46005 Valencia
El Poblet
The city-centre flagship of chef Quique Dacosta, holding 2 Michelin stars. El Poblet blends avant-garde techniques with deeply rooted Valencian culinary tradition. One of Spain's most creative dining experiences.
C/ de Correos, 8, 46002 Valencia
Restaurante Riff
Chef Bernd Knoller's Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined take on Mediterranean and Valencian cuisine. The tasting menus change seasonally and highlight local produce with Austrian-influenced precision.
C/ del Doctor Sumsi, 4, 46005 Valencia
La Sucursal
A Michelin-starred restaurant located within the IVAM contemporary art museum. Combines innovative cuisine with an artistic atmosphere, offering tasting menus and à la carte options.
C/ del Guillem de Castro, 118, 46003 Valencia
La Pepica
One of Valencia's most legendary restaurants, open since 1898 on the Malvarrosa beachfront. Famous visitors include Hemingway and the Spanish Royal Family. Essential for authentic Paella Valenciana and fideuà.
Av. de Neptú, 6, 46011 Valencia
Casa Montaña
One of Valencia's oldest and most beloved taverns (1836) in the El Cabanyal district, renowned for its exceptional wine list of 600+ labels and traditional tapas. A favourite among local food lovers.
C/ de Josep Benlliure, 69, 46011 Valencia
Bar Pilar
An iconic old-town tapas bar, famous since the 1940s for its clóchinas (local Valencia mussels), cerveza, and bustling atmosphere. The shells pile up on the bar — a quintessential Valencia experience.
C/ del Moro Zeit, 13, 46003 Valencia
El Cabanyal Seafood Restaurants (Bodega La Pascuala)
In the historic El Cabanyal fishing district, Bodega La Pascuala is known for the freshest daily catch, grilled fish, and Valencian rice dishes at honest prices.
C/ de la Reina, 47, 46011 Valencia
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Seafood
Mediterranean
Traditional Alicantino
Albufera Paella
Café & Cocktails
Café & Pastries
Creative Alicantino
Creative Tapas
Creative Valencian
Fusion
Grilled Meats
Mexican
Modern Tapas
Modern Valencian
Tapas & Andalusian
Tapas & Wine
Tapas & Wine Bar
Traditional Paella
Traditional Tapas
Traditional Valencian Drinks & Pastries
Traditional Valencian Tapas
Vegan
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Tipping practices vary — check local customs. Service charge is often included.
Restaurants may close between lunch and dinner. Plan meals around local dining hours.
Popular restaurants may not take reservations — arrive early or be prepared to wait.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |