Imagine eating tasty rice in Valencia, sharing small plates with friends, and dipping warm churros into thick chocolate. Sounds good, doesn’t it?
Spain is full of amazing food, and every region has something special to offer. If you love trying new dishes, these 10 Spanish favourites deserve a place on your travel list.
A taste of Spain in every bite
One of the best ways to discover Spain is through its food. Each region has its own recipes, local ingredients and cooking styles. You can enjoy fresh seafood by the coast, try tasty snacks in busy tapas bars, or treat yourself to a sweet dessert after dinner. Get ready to explore 10 dishes that will make your trip even more memorable.
10 Spanish dishes to add to your food bucket list
From crispy tapas to sweet treats, Spain is full of delicious dishes you won’t want to miss. Here are 10 local favourites to try on your next visit!
Paella: Spain’s famous rice dish
Where to try it: Valencia
Paella is one of Spain’s most famous dishes, and Valencia is the place to try the original style. The rice gets its golden colour from saffron, while other ingredients add plenty of flavour. Traditional Valencian paella often includes chicken, rabbit and beans. You can also find versions made with fresh seafood, such as prawns and mussels.
Tortilla Española: Spain’s comfort food
Where to try it: Cafés across Spain
This Spanish omelette proves that simple food can taste great. It is made with eggs, potatoes and sometimes onions. The outside is lightly golden, while the centre stays soft. You can enjoy a slice for breakfast, lunch or a quick snack. It is quite an easy way to try a dish that many Spaniards definitely enjoy every day.
Patatas bravas: Crispy potatoes with a kick
Where to try it: Madrid
If you love crispy potatoes, you will want to try patatas bravas. These fried potato pieces are served with a spicy or smoky sauce. They are surely crunchy on the outside and oh so soft in the middle. You will often find them on tapas menus, where small plates are shared around the table. Order a plate and enjoy them with friends.
Jamón Ibérico: Spain’s special cured ham
Where to try it: Local markets and tapas bars
Jamón ibérico is a famous Spanish ham with a rich taste and soft texture. It is cured for a long time and cut into very thin slices. Many places serve it with fresh bread, while others offer it on its own. Try a small plate at a local tapas bar to discover why this food is so popular in Spain.
Gazpacho: A refreshing taste of summer
Where to try it: Andalusia
Spain can get very hot in summer, so a cool bowl of gazpacho is a welcome treat. This chilled soup is made with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and olive oil. It tastes fresh and light, making it a good choice on warm days. If you visit Andalusia in southern Spain, look for it on local menus.
Gambas al ajillo: Garlic prawns
Where to try it: Seafood restaurants and tapas bars
The hypnotizing smell of garlic cooking in pure olive oil is surely hard to resist. Gambas al ajillo brings these flavours together with juicy prawns and sometimes a little chilli. The dish often arrives at the table while the oil is still sizzling. Order some crusty bread to dip into the tasty sauce. If you really enjoy seafood, this sumptuous dish is a sure must-try.
Croquetas: Small bites with a creamy centre
Where to try it: Local tapas bars
Croquetas are small, golden bites with a crunchy outside and a soft, creamy centre. They can be filled with ham, chicken or mushrooms. Their small size makes them perfect for sharing or trying between other dishes. Order a few different flavours and find the one you like best.
Pulpo a la Gallega: Galicia’s octopus speciality
Where to try it: Galicia
If you enjoy seafood, give this traditional dish from Galicia a try. It features tender octopus with olive oil, paprika and salt, often served with sliced potatoes. The simple seasoning lets the natural taste of the octopus shine. It is definitely a great choice when you’re exploring the food from north western Spain.
Churros con chocolate: A sweet Spanish treat
Where to try it: Traditional churrerías
Few treats are better than warm churros dipped in thick hot chocolate. These long pastries are fried until crisp and are often enjoyed for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Visit a traditional churrería to taste them fresh. Just be warned: once you start dipping, you may want another serving!
Crema Catalana: A classic Spanish dessert
Where to try it: Catalonia
Save some room for crema catalana, a much-loved dessert from Catalonia. It has a smooth custard base with a thin layer of caramelised sugar on top. Crack the crisp topping with your spoon and enjoy the creamy filling beneath. It is a sweet and simple way to end your Spanish food adventure.
Bring the flavours of Spain home with you
From golden paella to sweet churros, Spain has plenty of dishes to make your trip special. Visit local cafés, try regional favourites and be open to discovering new flavours along the way. Sometimes, the best meals are found in small places you did not plan to visit.
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