Valencian cuisine which is deeply rooted in the Mediterranean region boasts a captivating story of cultural exchange and culinary evolution. The fertile land surrounding Valencia caught the attention of the Romans, who cultivated it extensively, laying the groundwork for the region’s rich culinary heritage. However, it was the Moors (Arabs) who left an indelible mark. Their presence from the 8th to the 15th century significantly influenced Valencian gastronomy as they introduced key ingredients like saffron and rice. First forward a few centuries of rice cultivation in the wetlands near Albufera Lake and we got paella.
This iconic dish was originally a rustic field lunch prepared to rejuvenate farmers mid-way through a hard day of work in the fields. Today, Valencian cuisine celebrates its past while embracing modern tastes, captivating food enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you are indulging in time-honored treats at horchaterías or savoring fresh seafood dishes like arroz a banda at local restaurants, Valencia’s diverse cuisine invites you to explore, one delectable bite at a time.
To help you along here are Valencia’s top dishes, desserts, and drinks.
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If you want a more comprehensive guide on visiting Valencia, check out this post: The best things to see and do in Valencia
The Iconic Traditional Dishes of Valencia
1. Paella
Valencian paella traces its roots back to the fertile lands around Valencia, Spain. Originally, it was a humble field lunch prepared by farmers and laborers.
The traditional Valencian paella featured a combination of chicken, rabbit, and local white beans called “garrafó.” Today, paella has evolved to incorporate seafood paella, vegetarian paella, and “mixed” paella (combining both meat and fish).
- Seafood paella includes shrimp, mussels, squid, and sometimes lobster which elevates the dish to a luxurious level.
- Vegetarian paella showcases seasonal vegetables, saffron-infused rice, and aromatic herbs.
- “Mixed” paella combines the best of both worlds, featuring a harmonious blend of meats and seafood.
Insider Tip: The hallmark of an exceptional paella lies in its socarrat—a golden, crispy layer of rice that forms at the bottom of the pan. Achieving the perfect socarrat requires precise cooking techniques and patience. It’s a prized element that Valencians savor.
2. Fideuà
Paella’s seafood-and-noodles cousin has its origins as a humble fisherman’s dish. This tender, perfectly cooked noodle dish tastes spectacular with seafood additions like monkfish, squid, shrimp, and more. So it’s not surprising that Fideuà is one of the most popular foods from Valencia, and a great option if you don’t want to order paella.
The Valencian town of Gandia is proud to be the birthplace of this tasty dish. If you visit the region in early summer check out the annual fideuà cooking contest, a favorite local celebration in Gandia that has been around since 1975.
3. Coca
Coca, also known as coques are sweet or savory pastries enjoyed along much of Spain’s eastern coast. As a flatbread that comes piled with delicious toppings, it’s easy to think of the coca as pizza’s Valencian or Catalan cousin—and if that doesn’t convince you to try one, I’m not sure what will.
Popular varieties of coca include:
- Sweet Cocas: These cocas feature a sweet dough made with eggs and sugar. They can be topped with ingredients like fruit, nuts, and cheese.
- Savory Cocas: These cocas use a savory dough made with yeast and salt. Common toppings include fish, vegetables, and meat.
- Open Cocas: The typical coca with its content on top.
- Closed Cocas: Cocas with fillings on the inside.
4. Arròs a banda
Arròs a banda is a delightful Valencian dish that showcases the region’s love for rice and seafood. Arròs a banda originated in Alicante, a coastal city in the Valencian Community, Spain. Fishermen would use unsold fish to create the flavorful stock used for cooking the rice turning it into a savory and aromatic dish. Unlike paella, where all ingredients are cooked together, arròs a banda is served differently: The fish or seafood (often including prawns, squid, or monkfish) is served as the first course.
The rice, cooked in the flavorful fish stock, is then served as a separate dish. It’s also common to top the rice with a dollop of alioli (garlic mayonnaise) for a creamy and garlicky touch to the rice. Next time you’re in the Valencian region, don’t miss the opportunity to savor this unique and delicious dish!
5. All i Pebre
All i pebre is a traditional Valencian dish that warms both the body and the soul, making it an ideal choice if you are visiting during colder months. This hearty stew has been cherished by locals for generations, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why.
The star of the show, eel chunks are the heart of all i pebre. Their tender texture and rich flavor infuse the dish with depth. Other key ingredients include sliced or cubed potatoes simmered to perfection and sauce made with garlic, paprika, and almonds. The result is a comforting, aromatic stew that warms you from the inside out.
While all i pebre might not be as famous as paella or horchata outside of Valencia, it holds a special place in the hearts of locals. It’s their well-kept secret—a dish passed down through generations, enjoyed during family gatherings and festive occasions.
Insider Tip: Enjoy all i pebre with a glass of local red wine or a crisp rosé. The wine’s acidity complements the richness of the stew.
Valencian Drinks and Sweet Treats
Horchata
Horchata is a beloved Valencian beverage made from tiger nut milk, and sweetened with sugar and cinnamon. Horchata is often enjoyed alongside fartons, elongated pastries that are light, fluffy, and slightly sweet. These finger-shaped pastries are dusted with powdered sugar and have a delicate crumb. Traditionally, you dip a farton into the horchata to soak up its unique flavors. This is the perfect breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up after a long day of sightseeing!
Agua de Valencia
Another local favorite is this potent cocktail made by blending Cava, gin, and freshly squeezed orange juice for a citrusy punch. For a decade, the drink remained a secret known only to a small group of clients at Café Madrid. However, in the 1970s, it started gaining popularity in the wider Valencian nightlife scene, eventually becoming a beloved local favorite.
Local wine
The Valencian region is home to some of the most fantastic (and underrated) wines in Spain. Its denominaciones de origen include Valencia, Alicante, Utiel-Requena, and even some cava! If you prefer something non-alcoholic and refreshing, look no further than a glass of pure, freshly squeezed orange juice, celebrated for its superior taste thanks to Valencia’s abundant citrus groves.
Bunyols
Bunyols are yummy fritters containing a touch of pumpkin in the dough. Valencians usually snack on them during the famous Las Fallas festival in March, but I recommend enjoying them any time of year!
Flan de calabaza
Pumpkin is a starring ingredient in many typical foods from Valencia, more so than any other place in Spain. One of its most delicious iterations is pumpkin-flavored flan, where it provides the perfect velvety texture that this classic dessert needs.
Plan The Perfect Trip
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