Congratulations to Cheos who scooped first prize at Alicante’s brand-new ‘Alacroqueta’ festival, croquette showdown.
The event was held over the last weekend of September in Plaza Séneca, with Cheos winning thanks to their “Truffled Ham Croquette.”
Coming in a tasty second was La Taberna del Gourmet with their “Gourmet Iberian Chorizo Croquette,” while La Favorita grabbed third place for “De coca amb tonyna.”
Mayor Luis Barcala called the event a “resounding success.” He noted the plaza was busy all weekend, with a whopping 80,000 croquettes flying off the stalls between Friday and Sunday.
“I’d like to congratulate Cheos and all 14 participating venues,” said Barcala. “It was nearly impossible for locals to pick a favourite because the quality across the board was top-notch.”
Croquette showdown: Festival fun and details
Croquette fans could grab three for €6, or €2 each, and vote for their favourites via QR codes, scoring presentation, texture, and flavour on a scale of 1–10.
The festival wasn’t just about croquettes, though. Visitors enjoyed DJs, live music performances, showcooking, and children’s activities.
Some croquette highlights
- Barrita del Sidi: Red prawn and monkfish with ñora mayo, prawn tartare, sesame, and lime.
- Brasad’or: Grilled chicken, panko-coated, served with piquillo mayo.
- Distópico: Chorizo with pineapple chutney, Iberian pork papada, and harissa mayo.
- Ditaly: Risotto with ’nduja, stracciatella, semi-dried tomato, black pepper, and basil.
- Donde Nakiss: Eggplant and cheese with roasted eggplant cream and parmesan snow (gluten-free).
- La Favorita: Tuna, anise, onion, and pine nut (“De coca amb tonyna”).
- Píllame Confesá: Ham, mushroom, and truffle with mushroom-ham sauce.
Other participants, Santa Bar, Pocardy, Teselas, TorriKo, and Txopin Pintxo Bar, also impressed with their creative twists on the classic Spanish snack.
Cheos Restaurante winning croquette.
