Flavours of the Mediterranean
Gastronomy in Dénia
Red prawn, arroz a banda, fish stew and harbour tapas: Dénia is a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and the Costa Blanca's great seafood capital.
Dénia's table starts at the fish market. Every morning the harbour receives catch that becomes rice dishes, grills and stews. From Baix la Mar to Les Rotes, eating well is essential to the trip.
Harbour and fish market
The fishing port gathers seafood restaurants and rice houses with Montgó views. Ask what arrived today: gilt-head bream, sea bass, cuttlefish, octopus and, in season, Dénia's famous red prawn.
- Book lunch tables in high season.
- Lunch is the most authentic time for seafood rice.
- Combine a harbour walk with a long, unhurried meal.
Red prawn and Marina Alta seafood
Red prawn is grilled with coarse salt, in all i pebre or in rice and fideuà. You will also find fish suquet — a classic Valencian coastal stew — and grilled cuttlefish.
- Order prawn when the season allows.
- Share dishes to try more than one specialty.
- A chilled local white wine pairs perfectly.
Rice dishes and sea cuisine
Arroz a banda, arroz del senyoret, fideuà and arroz negro are local classics. Many rice restaurants face the sea; book ahead on summer weekends.
- One rice for two is usually plenty — share.
- Some traditional places serve rice mainly at lunch.
- Save room for a light dessert or coffee with a view.
Tapas, old town and marinas
In the historic centre and La Mar street you will find product-led tapas, esgarraet and Valencian wines. In Els Poblets and Las Marinas, neighbourhood restaurants sit close to LocDenia rentals.
- Tapas dinner works well before a full beach day.
- Ask for seasonal dishes off the tourist menu.
- From Els Poblets, Dénia centre is a short drive.
