Valencia Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Valencia. Your complete guide to dining in Valencia.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Valencia! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Valencia 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 Valencia's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Valencia like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Valencia 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 Valencia.
Restaurant Secret
Highly rated Mediterranean in Valencia with 4.7 stars from 4314 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 C/ de Sant Martí, 11, Ciutat Vella, 46002 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Mediterranean cuisine
El Porteño
Highly rated Restaurant in Valencia with 4.8 stars from 12952 reviews.
📍 Carrer d'en Llop, 4, Bajo Derecha, Ciutat Vella, 46002 Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Giardino del Carmen
Highly rated Restaurant in Valencia with 4.8 stars from 1437 reviews.
📍 Pl. de Joan de Vila-rasa, 6, bajo, Ciutat Vella, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Puerta del Mar
Highly rated Mediterranean in Valencia with 4.5 stars from 14229 reviews.
📍 Carrer dels Transits, 4, Ciutat Vella, 46002 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Mediterranean cuisine
Voltereta Bali – Valencia
Highly rated Restaurant in Valencia with 4.6 stars from 22076 reviews.
📍 Gran Via del Marqués del Túria, 59, L'Eixample, 46005 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo
Highly rated Restaurant in Valencia with 4.6 stars from 2062 reviews.
📍 C/ de Pere III el Gran, 11, L'Eixample, 46005 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
La Terracita Cuina de Mercat
Highly rated Restaurant in Valencia with 5 stars from 391 reviews.
📍 C. del Repés, 3, Ciutat Vella, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Gran Mercat
Highly rated Mediterranean in Valencia with 4.5 stars from 9970 reviews.
📍 Av. de María Cristina, 12, Ciutat Vella, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Mediterranean cuisine
Pasqual + Sheila
Highly rated Restaurant in Valencia with 4.7 stars from 2459 reviews.
📍 C. del Mar, 2, Ciutat Vella, 46003 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Restaurante Espurnes
Highly rated Mediterranean in Valencia with 4.7 stars from 1823 reviews.
📍 C/ de l'Ambaixador Vich, 6, Ciutat Vella, 46002 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Mediterranean cuisine
Karak
Highly rated Restaurant in Valencia with 4.7 stars from 1297 reviews.
📍 Carrer del Músic Peydró, 9, Ciutat Vella, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
La Terrazza (Pza La Virgen)
Highly rated Italian in Valencia with 4.7 stars from 4965 reviews.
📍 C/ dels Cavallers, 5, Ciutat Vella, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine
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 Valencia.
Central Market of Valencia
Highly rated International in Valencia 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
Mercado de Colón
Highly rated International in Valencia with 4.4 stars from 45581 reviews.
📍 Carrer de Jorge Juan, 19, L'Eixample, 46004 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mercado de Ruzafa
Highly rated International in Valencia with 4.5 stars from 9819 reviews.
📍 Pl. del Baró de Cortés, s/n, L'Eixample, 46006 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mercado de la Imprenta
Highly rated International in Valencia with 4 stars from 3962 reviews.
📍 Carrer de la Mascota, 17, Extramurs, 46007 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mercado Municipal del Cabañal
Highly rated International in Valencia with 4.5 stars from 10507 reviews.
📍 Carrer de Martí Grajales, 4, Poblados Marítimos, 46011 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Delicias Verdes
Highly rated International in Valencia with 5 stars from 7 reviews.
📍 Mercado Central puesto 254, 258, Ciutat Vella, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Rojas Clemente Market
Highly rated International in Valencia with 4.3 stars from 1247 reviews.
📍 Pl. de Rojas Clemente, Extramurs, 46008 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Hortbio Market
Highly rated International in Valencia with 4.1 stars from 1620 reviews.
📍 Carr. Fuente en Corts, 231, Quatre Carreres, 46013 Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Valencia.
Goodfood Valencia
Highly rated International in Valencia with 5 stars from 254 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 Valencia
Highly rated International in Valencia with 5 stars from 13010 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
Foodie&Tours Valencia
Highly rated International in Valencia with 5 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
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Valencia.
Cafe de las Horas
Highly rated Cafe in Valencia 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
MAYAN COFFEES Organic Specialty Coffee - Roasters - Direct Trade
Highly rated Cafe in Valencia with 4.7 stars from 1526 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 C/ de Murillo, 54, Ciutat Vella, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
COPPER (Specialty coffee & brunch)
Highly rated Cafe in Valencia with 4.7 stars from 480 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Carrer de Borriana, 12, L'Eixample, 46005 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
BOSCON | Specialty Coffee Roasters & Brunch
Highly rated Cafe in Valencia with 4.7 stars from 1056 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 C/ de Finlàndia, 16, El Pla del Real, 46010 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Café Colomer Specialty Coffee Roasters Valencia
Highly rated Cafe in Valencia with 4.9 stars from 181 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Pl. Fray Luis Colomer, 7, Bajo B, Algirós, 46021 Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
MESTIZO - Café de especialidad • Brunch • Tapas
Highly rated Cafe in Valencia with 4.9 stars from 2803 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 C/ del Portal de Valldigna, 9, Ciutat Vella, 46003 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Cult Café
Highly rated Cafe in Valencia with 4.8 stars from 1275 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 C. Arzobispo Mayoral, 7, Bajo, Ciutat Vella, 46002 Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Doux-Amer Cabañal | Café de especialidad & Brunch Valencia
Highly rated Cafe in Valencia with 4.6 stars from 1807 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 C/ de Just Vilar, 29, Poblados Marítimos, 46011 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Valencia.
Signature Dish
A must-try Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia.
The Jungle
Highly rated Bar in Valencia 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
La 73 Cocktail Bar Valencia
Highly rated Bar in Valencia with 4.9 stars from 372 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Carrer Serrano Morales, 2, L'Eixample, 46004 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Bar Los Picapiedra
Highly rated Bar in Valencia with 4.9 stars from 5230 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 C/ dels Cavallers, 25, Ciutat Vella, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Cafe de las Horas
Highly rated Cafe in Valencia 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
Atenea Sky ✢ Rooftop
Highly rated Bar in Valencia 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
Apotheke
Highly rated Bar in Valencia with 4.4 stars from 1860 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Carrer de Ciscar, 18, L'Eixample, 46005 València, Valencia, Spain
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar 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
Valencia'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 Valencia 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
Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia 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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