Culinary romance on the Costa: the perfect food and wine experience for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and what could be more romantic than an evening filled with delicious food, fine wines, and an enchanting atmosphere? In my previous blog, I hinted at it in my article about wood-fired ovens, but when it comes to pure culinary romance, the options along the costas are, of course, far more abundant!

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and what could be more romantic than an evening filled with exquisite food, fine wines, and a captivating atmosphere? In my previous blog, I touched on the topic in my article about wood-fired ovens, but when it comes to pure culinary romance, the dining options along the costas are, of course, even more diverse!

Romantic restaurants on the Costa Blanca

BonAmb (Jávea)

If you really want to go all out, BonAmb is the place to be. This two-Michelin-starred restaurant, located just outside Jávea, offers a setting that is both elegant and serene. The lush garden and soft lighting create the perfect atmosphere for a romantic dinner. Here, dining is not just about having a meal—it’s an experience to be shared, with dishes presented with meticulous precision.

BonAmb draws inspiration from the region and works with products from the land and sea. Their tasting menu is an absolute must and can range from perfectly cooked wild sea bass with fennel and citrus to smoked eggplant with aged Manchego and almond cream. The restaurant has an impressive wine cellar, and the sommelier will be happy to help you find the perfect pairing.

La Ereta (Alicante)

Perched on a hill in Alicante, just below the Santa Bárbara Castle, La Ereta is a restaurant that has everything you need for an intimate dinner with a spectacular view. As evening falls, the city and the sea light up, while the sleek, modern interior creates an exclusive yet relaxed atmosphere. This isn’t the kind of place where you’re crammed between dozens of tables—the setting is spacious, with great attention to detail, allowing you to enjoy your evening undisturbed.

Culinarily, La Ereta is known for its innovative approach to Mediterranean cuisine. Their tasting menu changes with the seasons, but classics such as black rice with cuttlefish and saffron mayonnaise or grilled red tuna with a creamy almond emulsion are always a hit. Pair it with a local Moscatel or a chilled Albariño, and you’re in for an unforgettable evening.

Romantic dining spots on the Costa del Sol

El Lago (Marbella)

If you want to celebrate Valentine’s Day in an intimate setting away from the hustle and bustle of Marbella, El Lago is the perfect choice. This Michelin-starred restaurant is tucked away beside a stunning lake, far from the tourist crowds, making it feel like a private dining experience. The interior is sleek and stylish without being overly formal—the atmosphere is warm, and the service is exactly what you’d hope for on a night like this: professional, yet never rushed.

El Lago is renowned for its seasonal and sustainable cuisine. Their tasting menu features dishes such as roasted Iberico pork belly with rosemary and honey and a silky tarte tatin of caramelised apples. The wine list is an experience in itself, offering a stunning selection of Andalusian wines, including the exclusive Pago El Espino. Dining here feels like a brief escape into a world where gastronomy and culinary romance go hand in hand.

Restaurante La Posada del Ángel (Ojén)

If you’d rather celebrate Valentine’s Day somewhere with character and a touch of history, Restaurante La Posada del Ángel in the charming mountain village of Ojén is a fantastic choice. Set in a beautifully restored Andalusian house, this restaurant exudes a rustic yet intimate atmosphere. The courtyard, with its fountain and candlelight, reflects the Moorish influences that define this region, while the small-scale setting makes it ideal for a distraction-free dinner.

The cuisine is classic Spanish with a refined twist. Specialities such as slow-cooked Iberico pork with orange and thyme or grilled sea bass with a delicate saffron sauce showcase the passion behind every dish. Finish with their homemade tarta de almendra, a light almond cake drizzled with orange syrup, paired with a glass of sweet Moscatel from the region. It doesn’t get more authentic than this.

Wines that enhance culinary romance

No romantic dinner is complete without the perfect wine. Here are some local wines that pair beautifully with a Valentine’s menu:

• Enrique Mendoza Shiraz (Alicante): A full-bodied, fruity red wine that pairs excellently with wood-fired dishes or rich meats like Iberico pork.
• Bodega Jorge Ordóñez Moscatel (Málaga): This dessert wine is a sweet way to end the evening, pairing beautifully with chocolate or citrus-based desserts.
• Barón de Ley Rosado: A fresh rosé that strikes the perfect balance between elegance and approachability. Ideal for light dishes or tapas.

Tips for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day

1. Book your reservation in advance: These top restaurants are highly sought after, especially around Valentine’s Day.
2. Opt for a tasting menu: Let yourself be surprised by multiple courses paired with carefully selected wines.
3. Surprise your date: Enhance the dinner with a romantic gesture, such as a walk along the beach or a bouquet of local flowers.

Whether you choose an intimate setting in the mountains or a chic dinner by the beach, the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol offer everything for a culinary Valentine’s Day. Open a bottle of fine wine, savour the local flavours, and celebrate love in a place where culinary romance fills the air.