More than Paëlla and Tapas: Discover 6 surprising dishes from the Costas

Everyone knows paella and tapas as icons of Spanish cuisine, but the Costa’s culinary world is much richer than that.

The regions along Spain’s east coast – from Catalonia to Murcia – offer a wealth of unique dishes, each with its own story. In this article, we take you through six delicious dishes that will give you a taste of true Costa flavors. Whether you are a lover of fish, meat or vegetarian, this selection offers something for everyone.

1. Fideuà – The Noodle Version of Paella

Region: Valencia
Category: Fish

Ever heard of fideuà? This dish originated in the port town of Gandía, where fishermen came up with a twist on the traditional paëlla. They replaced rice with fideuà, short, thin noodles, and filled the dish with shrimp, squid and mussels. The result? A delicious seafood dish with a unique texture and flavor.

Where to try?
Visit a local restaurant in Denia or Gandía, such as Casa Federico in Denia, which is known for its traditional fideuà. Serve with a blob of aioli for an authentic taste experience.

Pro-tip: Pair fideuà with a glass of dry white wine from the Valencia region – its mineral notes perfectly match the savory flavors of seafood.

2. Conejo al Ajillo – Garlic lovers, beware!

Region: Costa Blanca
Category: Meat

Garlic plays a starring role in this iconic dish, where tender pieces of rabbit are slowly simmered in an aromatic sauce of olive oil, garlic, white wine and herbs such as rosemary. Conejo al ajillo is a dish often encountered at family dinners, especially in the rural areas of the Costa Blanca.

Where to try?
Many traditional restaurants serve this dish, but for a special experience you can go to El Xato in La Nucía, which combines traditional flavors with a touch of modernity.

Tip: Not a fan of rabbit? Ask for a variant with chicken – it’s just as tasty and a little more accessible to many diners.

3. Escalivada – Simple and Full of Flavor

Region: Catalonia
Category: Vegetarian

Escalivada is the perfect example of how simplicity can surprise. This dish consists of roasted eggplant, bell bell pepper, onion and tomato, topped with a drizzle of olive oil. The vegetables are often roasted over charcoal, which adds a subtle, smoky flavor. It is served as a side dish, on a piece of bread or just as is – pure and honest.

Where to try?
In Barcelona, you’ll find escalivada on the menu of almost every Catalan restaurant, but try Can Culleretes, one of the oldest restaurants in the city, where tradition is paramount. Pro-tip: Order escalivada as an appetizer and pair it with a glass of Cava – the effervescent freshness complements the earthy flavors perfectly.

4. Arroz a Banda – Rice with Deep Seafood Flavors

Region: Valencia
Category: Fish

Originally a meal for fishermen, arroz a banda is now a favorite in the Valencia region. The rice is cooked in a rich broth of fish bones and shellfish, giving it a deep umami flavor. Traditionally, it is served with aioli – a creamy garlic sauce that you’ll want to pair with every bite.

Where to try?
Take a trip to La Pepica in Valencia, an iconic restaurant that has been loved by locals and tourists alike for generations. Pro-tip: Ask for extra aioli – you’ll need it!

5. Caldero Murciano – A savory rice stew

Region: Costa Càlida
Category: Fish

Caldero Murciano is a savory rice stew from the region of Murcia, cooked in a rich fish broth with tomatoes, garlic and saffron. Traditionally, the rice is served separately from the fish, which is usually monkfish or dorado. It is a robust dish with deep, Mediterranean flavors and a hint of the sea.

Where to try?
Try it in the charming coastal town of Cabo de Palos, for example at Restaurante Miramar, where this dish is prepared with love. Pro-tip: Add a dash of aioli for extra spice!

6. Turrón de Jijona – Een Zoete Afsluiter

Region: Jijona (Valencia)
Category: Sweet

No meal is complete without dessert, and turrón is the region’s sweet treat. Made from almonds and honey, this soft nougat almost melts in your mouth. Although turrón is especially popular around the holidays, you can enjoy this treat all year round.

Where to try?
Visit Jijona itself, where you will find local turrón makers who have been practicing this craft for generations. Turrones El Artesano is recommended for the finest nougat. Pro-tip: Take a box home with you – it makes a perfect gift or a wonderful souvenir of your trip.

Experience the True Taste of the Costa’s

From seafood-filled noodle dishes to simple roasted vegetables and sweet nougat, the Spanish Costa offers a culinary richness that goes far beyond paella and tapas. These six dishes are just a taste of what there is to discover. Whether you are a foodie or just curious about new flavors, the Costa’s cuisine will not disappoint.

Buen provecho!