Alicante named Spanish Gastronomic Capital of 2025
Top gastronomy in Alicante, the city of rice
Alicante has won the prestigious title of Spanish Gastronomic Capital of 2025, taking over from Oviedo, the 2024 title holder. The Andalusian city of Antequera received an honorable mention as runner-up.
This article will further introduce you to Alicante’s gastronomy and why it is so special.
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ToggleThe city of 1001 rice dishes
Alicante displays an unparalleled passion for Mediterranean cuisine, with rice at the heart of its culinary identity. The city is known as the “city of a thousand and one rice dishes.
This is evident in the different types and flavors such as arroz al horno (fried), arroz con costra (with a crust) and the iconic arroz a banda (cooked in fish broth). They range from dry rice dishes to creamier recipes such as melosos and even brothy styles, such as a caldero from nearby Murcia.
37 certified restaurants
The city is home to 37 certified restaurants under the quality label“Alicante City of Rice,” which guarantee exceptional standards in the preparation of this beloved staple. At the heart of these dishes are the best ingredients of the Mediterranean diet: extra virgin olive oil; saffron; ñora peppers; and the region’s signature salmorreta spices.
This prestigious designation is further enhanced by the introduction of the“Alicante Gourmet” brand, which aims to elevate the city’s gastronomic reputation to a global stage.
A gastronomic city with unique identity
Manuel Buter, director of the Spanish Tourist Office, highlighted Alicante’s culinary prestige: “Gastronomy is a cornerstone of Alicante’s identity and a vital driver of tourism. The city’s cuisine is acclaimed both nationally and internationally and reflects Spain’s vibrant culinary traditions and the spirited competition that defines the food culture.”
With 1,700 eateries, including several Michelin-starred and Repsol Sol-certified restaurants, Alicante’s culinary offerings are as diverse as they are distinctive.
Tip: check out a list of the best restaurants in Alicante
An annual highlight of Alicante’s gastronomy is Alicante Gastronómica, a dynamic culinary fair that invites visitors to taste, enjoy and learn from top chefs and food experts. The event is home to prestigious competitions such as the National Tortilla de Patata Championship, the International Haute Patisserie Award, dedicated to Paco Torreblanca, and the Mediterranean Rice Competition.
A leading tourist destination
As the capital of the Costa Blanca, Alicante is a magnet for travelers seeking sun, culture and exceptional gastronomy.
With 9 kilometers of urban beaches certified with the “Q” for Quality by the Spanish Institute of Tourism Quality (ICTE), 8,000 hotel rooms, more than 3,000 hours of sunshine per year and a biodiverse natural environment, the city is a vacationer’s dream.
Source: Spain.info
More tips for your visit to Alicante
This article was last updated on Jan. 19, 2025.
Publication date:
29 November 2024
Publication date: 29 November 2024
Updated on:
5 January 2026
Updated on: 5 January 2026
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