Spain’s food is as rich and diverse as its culture. If you’re wondering about the best Spanish food to try, we’ve got you covered! Exploring its cuisine was one of the best parts of our trip. From tapas to amazing wines, Spain has something for every foodie.
1. Tapas: Small Plates, Big Flavors
Tapas are a quintessential part of Spanish dining culture. These small, flavorful dishes are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a light meal. Every region of Spain has its take on tapas, so we made sure to try as many as possible!
Our Favorite Tapas Dishes:
- Patatas Bravas – Crispy potatoes topped with a spicy tomato sauce and aioli.
- Gambas al Ajillo – A classic Spanish dish of succulent prawns cooked in sizzling garlic and olive oil with a hint of chili.
- Croquetas – Creamy croquettes filled with ham, chicken, or even mushrooms.
- Jamón Ibérico – Spanish cured ham, thinly sliced, is an absolute must-try.
- Tortilla Española – A thick potato omelet, often served cold, is a great choice for a light bite.
If you’re searching for the best Spanish food to try, tapas are a great place to start. Their variety, bold flavors, and social dining experience make them a must on your food journey.
Best Tapas Restaurants:
- Bar Tomate (Barcelona) – This modern tapas bar in the heart of Barcelona serves up creative twists on traditional tapas with a sleek, stylish vibe.
- La Casa Del Abuelo (Madrid) – The iconic Spanish Garlic Prawns (Gambas al Ajillo) at La Casa Del Abuelo in Madrid is a must-try, sizzling in flavorful olive oil, garlic, and chili, perfectly capturing the essence of Spanish cuisine.
- Casa Lucio (Madrid) – While famous for its huevo roto (fried eggs with potatoes and jamón), Casa Lucio’s array of tapas is unforgettable.
- Bodega La Ardosa (Madrid) – A local favorite where we tried jamón and house-made croquettes paired with a cold beer. It felt like a true authentic Spanish tapas experience.
2. Paella: Spain’s Iconic Rice Dish
No visit to Spain would be complete without trying paella. This dish originated in Valencia, but you’ll find delicious versions all over the country. It’s made with a variety of proteins, from seafood to chicken and rabbit, mixed with saffron-infused rice.
Our Favorite Types of Paella:
- Paella Valenciana – Traditionally made with chicken, rabbit, and vegetables, this is the original version.
- Seafood Paella – A true beach-side delicacy, packed with prawns, mussels, and squid.
- Vegetable Paella – For the vegetarians, packed with seasonal veggies and savory rice.
Traditional Spanish paella with saffron-infused rice, seafood, and vegetables in a rustic pan.
Best Paella Restaurants:
- La Pepica (Valencia) – One of the most famous places for paella, right on the beachfront. Their seafood paella is a local favorite, and you can enjoy it with the fresh sea breeze.
- Restaurante El Canyis (Alicante) – This small, family-owned place offers exceptional rice dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
- Can Majó (Barcelona) – A great spot to enjoy traditional seafood paella right by the beach, with unbeatable views.
Whether you’re in Valencia, Barcelona, or Madrid, paella is one of the best Spanish foods to try if you want an authentic taste of Spain.
3. Jamón Ibérico: Spain’s Legendary Ham
Considered one of Spain’s finest culinary treasures, jamón ibérico (Iberian ham) is a delicacy made from acorn-fed pigs. The ham has a rich, nutty flavor and melts in your mouth—When making your list of the best Spanish food to try, don’t forget to add this iconic ham.
Best Jamón Spots:
- Jamón José (Madrid) – Known for its wide selection of premium Iberian hams, including their famous Jamón Ibérico de Bellota, served with cheese and wine.
- La Casa del Jamón (Barcelona) – A casual stop where you can grab some fresh jamón and other cured meats for a quick snack or picnic.
- El Corte Inglés (Various Locations) – Spain’s department store has some of the finest jamón ibérico we sampled—perfect for taking home as a souvenir!
Jamón Ibérico, Spain’s famous cured ham
4. Churros & Chocolate: A Sweet Spanish Tradition
Spanish churros are the perfect indulgence, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Traditionally, they’re served with a thick, rich chocolate dipping sauce that makes them the ultimate Spanish treat.
We couldn’t get enough of churros during our trip, and our absolute favorite spot in Barcelona was Granja M. Viader, a legendary churro café that’s been serving up these treats since 1870. The churros here are perfectly crispy, and the hot chocolate is rich and decadent. It felt like a trip back in time, with the historical charm and cozy atmosphere adding to the experience.
Where to Find the Best Churros:
- Chocolatería San Ginés (Madrid) – This historic cafe has been serving churros and hot chocolate to locals and tourists alike since 1894. It’s the go-to place for a late-night churros fix!
- Valor (Various Locations) – If you’re a chocolate lover, Valor’s thick, decadent chocolate pairs perfectly with their crispy churros. You can’t miss this spot!
- Granja M. Viader (Barcelona) – Our absolute favorite for churros and thick, luscious hot chocolate. It’s been a staple in Barcelona since 1870, and you can truly feel the history here.
Churros & Chocolate, Spanish Tapas
While exploring Spain, don’t miss the chance to savor the best Spanish food, from traditional tapas to rich paella. Pair your culinary adventures with The Perfect 14-Day Spain Itinerary: Explore, Relax, and Indulge for an unforgettable experience.
5. Catalan Cava: Spain’s Sparkling Wine
While Spain is known for its wine, no visit is complete without experiencing Catalan Cava, a sparkling wine that comes from the Penedès region near Barcelona. Cava has a crisp, refreshing taste that pairs wonderfully with tapas or even dessert. It’s Spain’s answer to Champagne, and it quickly became one of our favorites!
Where to Enjoy Cava:
- Freixenet (Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, near Barcelona) – One of the most famous producers of Cava, offering tours and tastings in a stunning setting. It’s a must-do for wine lovers visiting Barcelona.
- La Cava del Parro (Barcelona) – A cozy wine bar in the heart of the city where we sipped on high-quality Cava paired with traditional tapas. The intimate ambiance made it even more special.
- Can Paixano (Barcelona) – This lively and bustling bar near Barceloneta Beach served one of the best Cavas we tried during our stay. Paired with a delicious selection of cured meats, it was an unforgettable experience.
6. Tortilla Española: Spain’s Potato Omelet
A simple yet iconic dish, Tortilla Española is a Spanish omelet made with eggs, potatoes, and onions. It’s an everyday comfort food and appears on menus everywhere, from fine restaurants to casual cafes.
Tortilla Española, Spain’s Potato Omelet
Where We Found the Best Tortilla:
- El Club Allard (Madrid) – A modern take on traditional Spanish food. Their version of Tortilla Española was elevated to a fine dining experience.
- Bar Central (Madrid) – This lively spot served one of the most classic and well-made tortillas we tried, with the perfect balance of eggs and tender potatoes.
- Taberna El Sur (Madrid) – Their tortilla was mouthwatering, thick and rich, with the perfect soft center.
Conclusion: Spain’s Food Scene is Truly Unforgettable
From the warm, savory flavors of tapas to the deliciously simple Tortilla Española, Spain’s food and beverage offerings are a feast for the senses. Each region we visited had its unique take on traditional dishes, and every bite was a celebration of Spain’s culinary diversity. So, if you’re planning a trip, make sure you explore as many flavors and local restaurants as possible. The best Spanish food to try is waiting for you, and each dish tells a story of Spain’s rich heritage and passion for gastronomy.
We hope this guide inspires you to eat, drink, and savor the best of Spain during your next adventure!