Best Restaurants in Alicante, Spain: Eat Like a Local at These 37 Spots
Looking for the best restaurants in Alicante, Spain, where you can eat like a local and avoid tourist traps? Read on!
Book This Top Rated Alicante Food Tour on Viator and Explore with Local Experts!
Spain’s gastronomy has almost no equals on the global scale, with San Sebastián awarded the most Michelin stars per capita anywhere in the world. Take that, Paris! The only rivals are perhaps Tokyo and Hong Kong.
Yet somehow, Spain is still underrated compared to France and Italy. Spanish wine is just as good, much cheaper, and Spanish Michelin-starred venues are often a bargain.
Alicante: A Culinary Underdog
Similarly, Alicante itself is underrated in Spain. Overshadowed by Madrid, Barcelona, and the Basque Country, this Mediterranean city quietly boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants, celebrity chefs, and some of the country’s most underpriced wines.
The seasonal produce here is incredible: juicy tomatoes, sweet ripe figs, almonds, dates, and citrus fruits thrive in the sun-drenched orchards of the region.
Add to that the famous turrón de Jijona (a nougat-like dessert made nearby), the proximity to Valencia—the birthplace of paella with its lush rice fields—and the 3-Michelin-starred mastery of Quique Dacosta in nearby humble fishing town of Dénia, and you’ve got a culinary region of global significance.
You might also like: Quique Dacosta Review: A 3 Michelin Star Culinary Journey To Dénia, Spain
In fact, Alicante’s Playa San Juan is home to some of the best arrocerías (rice restaurants specializing in paella and its many cousins) outside of Valencia—a serious honor.
But here’s the catch: Alicante is also very popular with northern European tourists (mainly British, German, and Scandinavian). With direct flights from across Europe, it’s easy to stumble into tourist traps serving mediocre tapas instead of local excellence.
That’s why I’ve put together this guide of restaurants in Alicante most beloved by Alicantinos themselves.
Best Restaurants in Alicante
I used to call Alicante home, and while I lived there, I explored many—if not all—of the restaurants frequented by local residents. Based on my experience, here is a list of the 37 best restaurants in Alicante:
1. Nou Manolín
A true Alicante institution, famous for its barra de tapas—a long bar stacked with fresh seafood, croquetas, and Iberian ham. Locals swear by their arroz dishes and the unbeatable atmosphere.
2. Restaurante César Anca
Elegant yet approachable, chef César Anca crafts modern Mediterranean plates with market-fresh ingredients. Great for a refined dinner without breaking the bank.
3. La Taberna del Gourmet
A temple of tapas in Alicante, combining tradition and creativity. Known for top-quality cold cuts, cheeses, and seafood presented with flair.
You might also like: Bocadillo de Calamares: Spain’s Best-Kept Culinary Secret
4. Restaurante Dàrsena
Overlooking the marina, Dàrsena is one of the best spots for rice dishes, offering more than 100 varieties of paella and arroces. A must for rice lovers.
5. La Ereta
Located on Mount Benacantil near Santa Bárbara Castle, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers panoramic views of the city and seasonal tasting menus celebrating Alicante’s produce.
6. Chico Calla
Tiny, trendy and lively, this casual eatery specializes in inventive tapas with a youthful vibe. Great place to start a night out in Alicante’s “Mushroom Street.”
7. Restaurante Monastrell
Helmed by María José San Román, one of Alicante’s most celebrated chefs, Monastrell holds a Michelin star. Expect local rice, saffron, and olive oil to play starring roles.
8. Terre
A stylish spot for those who want a mix of wine, cocktails, and modern cuisine. Chic décor, a buzzing bar, and creative Mediterranean plates make it a favorite for younger crowds.
9. La Taverna del Racó del Pla
Homely and authentic, this taverna is beloved for hearty portions of traditional Alicante dishes. Think arroz al horno and other comfort foods.
You might also like: Best Restaurants In Mallorca, Spain: 8 Places To Taste Mallorcan Cuisine
10. Bar El Canto
One of the city’s most iconic tapas bars—tiny, always crowded, and always delicious. Order a beer and let the waiter bring you small plates of local classics.
11. Tapa-Caña (D’Tablas)
Famous for its unique system: you get tapas on wooden boards for every drink you order. Simple, cheap, and fun—perfect for an easygoing night.
12. La Tasca del Barrio
A cozy tavern in Alicante’s old quarter serving rustic tapas, local wines, and hearty plates. Excellent for casual evenings.
13. Alma del Sur
Brings southern Spanish flair to Alicante, with Andalusian-inspired tapas and raciones. Great fried fish and jamón.
14. Lizarran
A beloved pintxos chain across Spain. Grab small Basque-style skewers straight from the bar. A casual, affordable, and quick option.
Book This Top Rated Alicante Food Tour on Viator and Explore with Local Experts!
15. Restaurante Gema Penalva
Run by chef Gema Penalva, this spot blends modern and traditional flavors with a strong focus on seasonal produce. Fresh, light, and elegant.
16. Cervecería Sento Barrio
Small, bustling, and wildly popular with locals. Known for creative montaditos (small sandwiches) and innovative tapas.
17. El Garaje Bar
Hip, alternative spot serving modern tapas and cocktails. Great for those who want a younger, artsy vibe.
18. Las Brasas de San Miguel
Specializes in grilled meats and hearty fare. A carnivore’s paradise in the heart of Alicante.
19. Pipirrana Vermut
A vermouth bar with small tapas plates and a relaxed, retro vibe. Perfect for a pre-dinner drink.
20. Alma de Barra
Stylish bar with a focus on contemporary tapas, cocktails, and a lively crowd.
You might also like: Easter in Andalucía: A Soul-Stirring Celebration of Faith & Flavors
21. Helados AntiuXixona
Alicante is ice cream country, and AntiuXixona is a local brand that serves some of the best nougat ice creams in Spain.
22. Mercat Central d’Alacant
Not just for shopping—locals gather here to eat tapas, jamón, cheeses, and sip vermouth. A must for food lovers.
23. Orxateria “Azul”
A historic spot for horchata (tiger nut milk). Authentic, refreshing, and part of Alicante’s heritage.
24. Forn de Pa José María García
An artisanal bakery known for its rustic gluten free breads and pastries. Perfect morning stop.
25. Bar Guillermo
A legendary tapas bar, especially famous for boquerones en vinagre (anchovies in vinegar) and other seafood snacks. Off the beaten path.
26. Voltereta Tanzania
A quirky, design-driven restaurant with themed décor and modern fusion dishes. Very Instagrammable.
You might also like: Catalan Cuisine: 6 Traditional Flavors Of Barcelona
27. Tobar Centre Alacant
A hidden gem focusing on traditional Alicante cuisine with a family-run feel.
28. Vino y Más Tapas Bar
Wine lovers rejoice—this bar specializes in Spanish wines paired with great small plates.
29. Restaurante Bailén 17
A fine-dining restaurant offering seasonal tasting menus rooted in Alicante’s traditions but with modern presentation.
30. La Fábrica Tapas
Casual spot for well-priced tapas in a relaxed setting. Good option for groups.
31. San Telmo Gastrobar
Creative Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on presentation and fresh produce.
32. La Favorita Bar
A relaxed and friendly tapas bar with affordable drinks and food. A local go-to for casual nights.
You might also like: The Old Man And The Drink: Around The World In Hemingway’s Footsteps
Arrocerías in Playa San Juan
For arroces aka rice dishes (pro tip: not all arroces are synonymous with paella), head out to Playa San Juan, where locals go on weekends:
33. Restaurante Arrocería Casa Julio – Legendary seaside spot for paella and seafood rice.
34. Daksa – Modern arrocería with inventive rice dishes.
35. Azul Playa – Beachfront dining with classic paellas.
36. Arrocería La Terracita Mayoral – Family-friendly and affordable, with great fideuà (noodle paella).
37. Restaurante Arrocería Casa Pepe – Old-school and beloved for traditional flavors.
You might also like: Madrid in a Day: A Food Guide for Day Trippers
Top Restaurants in Alicante – Final Words
Alicante may be overshadowed by bigger Spanish culinary destinations, but for those who know where to look, it’s one of the richest food cities in the Mediterranean.
Whether you’re tucking into tapas at a crowded bar, savoring Michelin-starred tasting menus, or sharing a paella by the sea, the city rewards those who eat like a local.
Book This Top Rated Alicante Food Tour on Viator and Explore with Local Experts!
What else would you add to the list of the best restaurants in Alicante? Let us know in the comments or tag @eightyflavors on socials!
OUR TRIED AND TESTED FOOD TRAVEL RESOURCES: Book a hotel with Booking.com. Search for the best flight deals on Skyscanner. Find the best local food tours on Viator. Browse curated conscious group trips with G Adventures. Get your travel insurance with World Nomads.
Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links. We’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through the link provided, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support in running this blog!
