Verified picks across the Costa Blanca
Three Michelin stars. One of Europe's greatest restaurants. Book months in advance. Worth every euro.
Dénia is the red prawn capital of the world — this is where to eat them. Ask for them a la plancha, simply grilled.
One Michelin star, in a farmhouse surrounded by palm orchards. Chef Susi Díaz is a legend.
Stunning resort restaurant with a pan-Asian menu and spectacular gardens. Worth the splurge.
Award-winning tapas bar in the heart of the old quarter. Famous for its fresh seafood montaditos and extensive Spanish wine list.
A Michelin-recommended classic. The private dining rooms downstairs hide one of Alicante's great cellars.
Upmarket spot with terrace views of the Benidorm skyline. Paella and rice dishes are their signature.
Overlooking the fishing harbour with the Peñón d'Ifach rock as backdrop. Freshest fish in the port.
Legendary paella spot right on the waterfront. The paella de bogavante (lobster) is stunning.
One of Benidorm's most authentic Spanish restaurants. Avoid the touristy strip — come here for proper jamón and Rioja.
Best steak in Benidorm, full stop. Argentine cuts, proper chimichurri, extensive wine list.
Creative Valencian cuisine in the heart of Elche. The local rice dishes and date-based desserts are unmissable.
The benchmark for paella in Torrevieja. Arroz con costra (baked rice crust) is their house speciality.
A landmark since 1974. Classic Alicantino cuisine — arroz a banda, dorada a la sal, and the best esgarraet in the city.
Trendy beach club inside the marina. All-day dining from brunch to late-night cocktails. Great views.
Casual seafood spot on the promenade. Excellent grilled fish, gambas al ajillo, and ice-cold draught beer.
Buzzing gastrobar in the cathedral square. Creative tapas with local ingredients — try the tuna tataki with mango.
Family-run fishing restaurant where the catch of the day is written on a chalkboard. Zero frills, maximum freshness.
Cosy wine bar and restaurant in the old town. Terrific ibérico cuts and local Alicante wines.
Right on the salt lake promenade. The fresh fish selection changes daily — the lubina is exceptional.
Charming restaurant in the old town beneath the castle. Traditional Spanish cuisine with modern touches.
Traditional Spanish grill with excellent charcoal-grilled meats. The chuletón is enormous.
Garden restaurant in the palm grove. Perfect for lunch under the trees. Try the arroz con verduras.
Market bar serving breakfast and tapas to fishermen and foodies since 8am. Order the pa amb tomàquet.
Market bar beloved by locals. Wine is cheap, tapas are excellent, atmosphere is electric on market days.
Beachfront chiringuito with feet-in-the-sand vibes. Grilled meats, cold cocktails, sunset views.
This place does octopus like nowhere else in the province. Galician-style pulpo with paprika and olive oil.
Relaxed restaurant under the arches of the old town. Reliable Spanish home cooking at fair prices.
Minimalist Japanese restaurant run by a Japanese chef. Omakase and à la carte menus available.
Historic town-centre bar inside the old casino building. Cheap tapas, cold beer, and great people-watching.
The best breakfast in Dénia. Freshly baked croissants, excellent coffee, fresh orange juice.
Italian family restaurant that has kept Calpe expats fed for 20 years. Generous portions, friendly staff.
Wood-fired Neapolitan pizza by a family from Naples. The margherita with local tomatoes is outstanding.
Old town institution. Pintxos at the bar, canas (small beers) flowing, always packed by 9pm.
British-run deli and café popular with expats. Full English, fresh sandwiches, great coffee. Opens early.