Spain is known for its rich culinary traditions and vibrant food culture. If you’re looking to savor Spanish cuisine, here are some must-visit restaurants that offer exceptional dining experiences:
1. El Celler de Can Roca – Girona
Located in Girona, Catalonia, El Celler de Can Roca is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant that consistently ranks among the world’s best. It offers a creative and innovative approach to traditional Spanish flavors, with dishes that showcase the culinary skills of the Roca brothers.
2. Tickets – Barcelona
Owned by renowned chef Albert Adrià , Tickets is a tapas restaurant in Barcelona that takes traditional Spanish small plates to a whole new level. With a playful and theatrical dining experience, Tickets offers a wide variety of innovative tapas and creative interpretations of classic Spanish dishes.
3. Arzak – San Sebastian
Situated in San Sebastian, Arzak is a world-class restaurant that has been awarded three Michelin stars. Led by Chef Juan Mari Arzak and his daughter Elena, the restaurant is known for its avant-garde Basque cuisine and experimental flavors.
4. DiverXO – Madrid
Helmed by Chef David Muñoz, DiverXO in Madrid is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a unique fusion of Spanish and Asian cuisines. Expect a bold and daring culinary experience with unexpected flavor combinations and meticulous presentation.
5. Casa Lucio – Madrid
Casa Lucio is a classic Spanish restaurant located in the heart of Madrid. It is famous for its traditional dishes, especially its renowned huevos rotos (broken eggs) dish, which is a must-try when visiting. The rustic atmosphere and warm hospitality add to the overall charm of this iconic establishment.
6. Asador Etxebarri – Axpe, Basque Country
Asador Etxebarri, nestled in the Basque Country, is known for its extraordinary grilled cuisine. Chef Victor Arguinzoniz uses carefully selected ingredients and a mastery of fire to create smoky and delicious dishes, making it a haven for meat and seafood lovers.
7. Azurmendi – Larrabetzu, Basque Country
Azurmendi, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, offers a unique dining experience in the Basque countryside. Chef Eneko Atxa showcases the flavors of the region with a modern and sustainable approach. The restaurant is also known for its stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings.
8. Restaurante BotÃn – Madrid
Founded in 1725, Restaurante BotÃn holds the Guinness World Record for being the oldest continuously operating restaurant. It specializes in traditional Castilian cuisine, including succulent roasted meats and traditional Spanish dishes.
9. Enigma – Barcelona
Enigma, headed by Chef Albert Adrià , offers a multisensory dining experience with its avant-garde and immersive approach to Spanish cuisine. The restaurant takes guests on a culinary journey through various themed spaces, each offering unique flavors and textures.
10. El Poblet – Valencia
El Poblet, located in Valencia, is a renowned restaurant led by Chef Quique Dacosta. It combines traditional Valencian flavors with contemporary techniques to create inventive and visually stunning dishes.
These restaurants represent a range of culinary styles and regions within Spain, offering diverse and unforgettable experiences for those seeking to savor the country’s rich gastronomy.