Valence Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience

Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Valence. Your complete guide to dining in Valence.

ByFun Around Me Team
5 min read

Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Valence! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Valence has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Valence's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Valence like a true food lover.

Key Takeaways

  • Valence offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
  • Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
  • Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
  • Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
  • Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere

Must-Try Restaurants

From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Valence.

MAISON GRIZLAW

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.7 stars from 1174 reviews.

📍 116 Av. Victor Hugo, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

La Petite Fabrique

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.7 stars from 444 reviews.

📍 6 Rue de l'Hôtel de ville, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Maison Pic

Highly rated French in Valence with 4.7 stars from 1566 reviews.

📍 285 Av. Victor Hugo, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic French cuisine

Chez Grand-mère

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.6 stars from 2666 reviews.

📍 3-5 Pl. de la Pierre, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Margherita Valence

Highly rated Italian in Valence with 4.5 stars from 783 reviews.

📍 7 Rue Emile Augier, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine

Bistrot André

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.5 stars from 1700 reviews.

📍 285 Av. Victor Hugo, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

La Cachette* Valence

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.6 stars from 688 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.

📍 20 Rue Notre Dame de Soyons, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience

Le Vert Mi Sel

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.7 stars from 408 reviews.

📍 21 Rue Bayard, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

La Maison Restaurant

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.8 stars from 131 reviews.

📍 12 Rue du Dr Bernard Taine, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Restaurant l'Agopé

Highly rated French in Valence with 4.7 stars from 492 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.

📍 15 Grande Rue, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic French cuisine

Le Tire-Bouchon

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.9 stars from 176 reviews.

📍 37 Grande Rue, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Restaurant Almacita | Valence

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.5 stars from 330 reviews.

📍 51 Grande Rue, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Street Food & Food Markets

Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Valence.

Central Market of Valencia

Highly rated International in Valence with 4.7 stars from 93182 reviews.

📍 C/ de Palafox, 13, Ciutat Vella, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Place des Clercs

Highly rated International in Valence with 4.4 stars from 675 reviews.

📍 10 Pl. des Clercs, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Marché de Fontbarlette (oriental) alimentaire et forain

Highly rated International in Valence with 4.3 stars from 150 reviews.

📍 21 Rue de Biberach, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

E.Leclerc VALENCE

Highly rated Bakery in Valence with 4.1 stars from 2945 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.

📍 404 Av. Victor Hugo, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine

Le Marché Loc'Halle

Highly rated International in Valence with 4.5 stars from 73 reviews.

📍 165 Rue des Chabanneries, 26500 Bourg-lès-Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

La Ferme Maubourg

Highly rated International in Valence with 4.4 stars from 88 reviews.

📍 Rue Servan, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Carrefour City

Highly rated Bakery in Valence with 4 stars from 314 reviews. Quick service for those on the go.

📍 164 Av. Victor Hugo, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine

Carrefour City

Highly rated Bakery in Valence with 4.6 stars from 22 reviews. Quick service for those on the go.

📍 58 Av. de Romans, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Food Tours & Culinary Experiences

Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Valence.

Lyon Food Tour

Highly rated International in Valence with 5 stars from 126 reviews.

  • Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • Ask your guide for local recommendations

Original Food Tours Lyon

Highly rated International in Valence with 4.3 stars from 6 reviews.

  • Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • Ask your guide for local recommendations

Free Tour Lyon

Highly rated International in Valence with 5 stars from 406 reviews.

  • Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • Ask your guide for local recommendations

Maison Pic

Highly rated French in Valence with 4.7 stars from 1566 reviews.

  • Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • Ask your guide for local recommendations

Fafa Tiki

Highly rated Bar in Valence with 4.9 stars from 85 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

  • Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • Ask your guide for local recommendations

Ici et là Cave à manger - Restaurant à Valence

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.5 stars from 286 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

  • Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • Ask your guide for local recommendations

Cafes & Bakeries

Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Valence.

Cafe de las Horas

Highly rated Cafe in Valence with 4.5 stars from 9761 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 C/ del Comte d'Almodóvar, 1, Ciutat Vella, 46003 València, Valencia, Spain

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Le Café Victor Hugo - VH

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.2 stars from 3914 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 30 Av. Victor Hugo, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

MAISON GRIZLAW

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.7 stars from 1174 reviews.

📍 116 Av. Victor Hugo, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Chez Grand-mère

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.6 stars from 2666 reviews.

📍 3-5 Pl. de la Pierre, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Tamper & Yummy

Highly rated Cafe in Valence with 4.9 stars from 310 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 16 Rue Dauphiné, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

LOUVRE run by Saison

Highly rated Restaurant in Valence with 4.5 stars from 314 reviews.

📍 3 Pl. de la République, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

stella-café

Highly rated Cafe in Valence with 4.9 stars from 430 reviews. Quick service for those on the go.

📍 36 Grande Rue, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Good Bean Coffee

Highly rated Cafe in Valence with 4.7 stars from 412 reviews. Quick service for those on the go.

📍 19 Rue Emile Augier, 26000 Valence, France

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Local Specialties & Signature Dishes

Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Valence.

Signature Dish

A must-try Valence specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • Try it at multiple places to compare
  • Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Local Delicacy

This beloved Valence dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • Try it at multiple places to compare
  • Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Traditional Recipe

Experience the authentic taste of Valence with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • Try it at multiple places to compare
  • Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Street Food Favorite

Discover why this Valence specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • Try it at multiple places to compare
  • Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Regional Specialty

This iconic Valence creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.

  • Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • Try it at multiple places to compare
  • Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Seasonal Treat

A Valence classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.

  • Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • Try it at multiple places to compare
  • Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Classic Comfort Food

A must-try Valence specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • Try it at multiple places to compare
  • Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Modern Fusion

This beloved Valence dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • Try it at multiple places to compare
  • Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Artisanal Product

Experience the authentic taste of Valence with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • Try it at multiple places to compare
  • Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Heritage Recipe

Discover why this Valence specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • Try it at multiple places to compare
  • Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Bars & Nightlife

Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Valence.

The Jungle

Highly rated Bar in Valence with 4.9 stars from 1559 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 Carrer del Comte d'Altea, 12, L'Eixample, 46005 València, Valencia, Spain

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Atenea Sky ✢ Rooftop

Highly rated Bar in Valence with 4.2 stars from 4887 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 C/ de Moratín, 12, Ciutat Vella, 46002 València, Valencia, Spain

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Espit Chupitos Valencia

Highly rated Bar in Valence with 4.8 stars from 2794 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 C/ de l'Explorador Andrés, 29, Algirós, 46022 València, Valencia, Spain

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Fox Congo

Highly rated Bar in Valence with 4.7 stars from 7520 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 C/ dels Cavallers, N 35, Ciutat Vella, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Maison Lupin

Highly rated Bar in Valence with 4.5 stars from 1528 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 C/ de l'Almirall Cadarso, 12, L'Eixample, 46005 València, Valencia, Spain

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Cafe de las Horas

Highly rated Cafe in Valence with 4.5 stars from 9761 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 C/ del Comte d'Almodóvar, 1, Ciutat Vella, 46003 València, Valencia, Spain

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Essential Tips

  • 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
  • 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
  • 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
  • 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
  • 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
  • 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
  • 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
  • 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
  • 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
  • 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

Valence's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.

Average Price

Dining costs in Valence vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Valence is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.

For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.

Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.

Most restaurants in Valence offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.

Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Valence specifically.

Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.

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