National Geographic has drawn up a list of its top Costa Blanca spots to enjoy everything from seafood rice to Dénia’s famous red prawns.
If you are a fan of good fish and seafood, you will be right at home on the Costa Blanca. The province is a proper treasure chest of Mediterranean flavours.
National Geographic’s top Costa Blanca eats
Dénia steals the show with the most mentions on the list, and for good reason. The town has salt in its veins and seafood on every corner.
El Pegolí
With more than eighty years of maritime tradition, El Pegolí is practically an institution. Locals swear by the grilled red prawns and the classic Arroz a Banda. Top tip: Follow the house recommendations for the freshest catch of the day.
Pont Sec
Calling itself a “coqueria”, this place takes flatbreads very seriously. The cocas are handmade, topped with both traditional and modern flavours, and there is plenty of seafood, fish, and rice on offer.
El Faralló
Sea views, red prawns, and a relaxed atmosphere. What more could one want? El Faralló is famous for serving the area’s prized crustacean, best followed by a tasty plate of Arroz a Banda.
Casa Federico
A short stroll from Les Marines beach, Casa Federico champions local produce. Expect the freshest fish and seafood, fine Spanish meats, and homemade desserts that are difficult to refuse.
Beyond Dénia, the coastal feast continues
El Cranc (Altea)
Right on La Olla beach, this bright and breezy restaurant focuses on what the sea brings in that day. Prawns, cuttlefish, and squid are the stars here, either grilled or baked to perfection.
La Perla (Jávea)
This family-run gem sits on Arenal Beach, serving simple but top-quality dishes. Everything revolves around fresh, local, seasonal ingredients, with grilled fish and seafood leading the way.
El Hogar del Pescador (Villajoyosa)
Open since 1970, this restaurant knows its seafood inside out. The menu is a tour of traditional dishes, suquet, fideuà, gazpacho de mar, and caldero, along with fish such as red mullet and turbot.
Nou Manolín (Alicante city)
Part gastropub, part seafood bar, Nou Manolín is a must for seafood lovers. Red and white shrimp, langoustines, and lobster share the counter with salted and pickled fish.
