Where can I get the best tapas in Valencia?

Valencia is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and just mentioning its name conjures up images of succulent seafood dishes and fragrant paella. Along with the four essential food groups of each Mediterranean diet (carbohydrates, vegetables, animal proteins, and fruit) tapas come highly recommended to anyone looking to sample the local flavors. To find the best tapas in Valencia – which are usually small portions of appetizers or snacks – one needs to know where to go for them. The following guide will provide a comprehensive list of the top places to find the best tapas in Valencia.

1. El Carmen

El Carmen is a popular neighborhood in the Ciutat Vella district of Valencia renowned for its narrow cobblestone streets and brightly colored buildings. Not surprisingly, it’s also one of the best places to sample tapas from across the city. El Carmen is home to a number of tapas establishments offering everything from seafood dishes to salmorejo and montadito. Patrons can expect generous portions for a reasonable price, making it a great spot to sample many different flavors without breaking the bank.

2. Ruzafa Market

On Saturdays, one of the best places to find great tapas in Valencia is the Ruzafa Market, located in the quintessential Ruzafa neighborhood. This cheerful open-air venue offers a number of stands that serve a wide selection of traditional tapas recipes. From croquetas de pollo to crepes with iberico ham and more, there’s something for everyone’s taste preferences here. The market also provides a great opportunity to mingle with the locals and pick up some tips on where to enjoy more of the city’s gastronomic specialties.

3. Mercado Central

Located in the city center, Valencia’s Mercado Central is home to some of the best tapas bars in the city. This iconic venue dates back to the 19th century, and it features some of the most esteemed restaurants in the city serving up traditional tapas dishes with a contemporary twist. Also known as “la Lonja’ (or market hall), Mercado Central provides a great selection of tapas ingredients such as fresh olive oil, anchovies, olives, Manchego cheese, cured meats and more. Of course, visitors don’t have to miss out on sampling delicacies such as grilled vegetables, omelets, and baked goods either).

4. Bodegit Coquetelería de Tapas

If you’re looking for more sophisticated tapas in an elegant setting, then Bodegit Coquetelería de Tapas should be your number one choice. This uniquely decorated bar serves up delicious traditional recipes along with their own creative interpretations on Spanish culinary classics. The cozy ambience, professional staff and upbeat music make this establishment a great spot to hang out and celebrate any special occasion with friends or family members alike.

5. Chocolateria Alejandro Sanz

Chocolateria Alejandro Sanz is a picturesque café with a romantic atmosphere that serves up light snacks along with signature chocolate beverages including hot chocolate and mocha lollipops. While waiting for your order you can try some of their mouthwatering house-made churros filled with Nutella. But if you’re in need for something more substantial you can try one of their delicious tapas buñuelos – fried doughnut-like balls filled with bacalao (salted codfish) or mushrooms and bacon.

6. Casa Pepa

If you’re venturing further away from city center, then head over to Casa Pepa on Santa Teresa street in Ruzafa. Famous for its traditional Valencian paella, Casa Pepa provides a great selection of tapas dishes at very economical prices. Some of their most popular dishes include berenjenas rellenas (stuffed eggplant) and pisto manchego (Spanish ratatouille). The venue itself provides lovely ambience too, where antiques decorate the inner walls, giving it an invigorating retro feel.

7. Celler Cal Blay

Celler Cal Blay is likely one of the best places to explore Valencian cuisine without actually having to step out of your comfort zone. Transforming traditional recipes into creative works of art, this cosy restaurant is well known as one of the gastronomic gems hiding inside Valencia’s bustling city centre. Popular tapas include crepes stuffed with octopus and squid ink or their melting goat cheese croquettes filled with black garlic mayonnaise – so good that you’ll be sure wanting more! Finally, those looking for some vegan options should check out Vegan Valencia Gran Via. Here, visitors can enjoy a number of vegan-friendly tapas dishes such as veggie hamburgers with plantain chips, spicy falafels and sweet potato fries with Tahini sauce – all prepared using natural ingredients and eliminating the need to use excessive amounts of oil or other fats. In conclusion, Valencia is full of delicious tapas options for those who know where to look! Whether you’re looking for traditional recipes such as omelette tortilla or more modern versions such as vegan-friendly quesadillas, there’s something for everyone across this vibrant city. Travellers are sure to be impressed at the selection that Valencia has on offer, so don’t miss out on trying some tonight!