La Pepica

La Pepica is one of Valencia's most storied restaurants, open since 1898 on the Malvarrosa beachfront at Avenida de Neptú. For well over a century it has been the definitive address for authentic Paella Valenciana — a wood-fired paella made strictly according to tradition: chicken, rabbit, green beans, garrofó beans, tomato, and saffron-infused Calasparra or Albufera rice. The restaurant's fame brought in illustrious visitors across the twentieth century, most notably Ernest Hemingway, who is said to have eaten here regularly during his time in Valencia, and various members of the Spanish Royal Family. Signed photographs and memorabilia cover the walls, giving the dining room the feel of a living institution rather than a tourist attraction. Beyond the iconic Paella Valenciana, the menu extends to fideuà — the noodle-based Valencian alternative — arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish stock), and a selection of fried fish and shellfish. Portions are generous and designed for sharing. The setting directly on the Malvarrosa beach, with views of the Mediterranean, is inseparable from the experience. Service is efficient and well practised for the volume of covers. La Pepica is open daily for lunch; dinner service runs Thursday through Saturday. Reservations are strongly recommended for weekends and essential during the summer months of July and August, when the terrace fills rapidly. Prices are moderate relative to the location and the quality of the product.