Imagine sitting at a cafe and feeling the sun on your skin, while gazing out onto the Mediterranean. Abas costa blanca, the jewel of Spain’s east coast, offers more than stunning beaches or picturesque landscapes. This is a culinary heaven that attracts foodies around the world.
Imagine starting your morning with a stroll in a bustling Alicante market. The air smells of oranges and tomatoes. Vendors offer everything from fragrant saffron to plump olives, shouting in melodic Spanish. It’s not just about shopping here, but also a journey for your palate.
The paella dish is synonymous with Spanish cuisine. Costa Blanca is the home of this traditional rice dish, but Valencia claims it as its origin. Imagine yourself sitting next to the sea with a fork in your hand and diving into an enticing seafood paella that is brimming over with mussels and shrimps. Each bite takes you into another world with flavors dancing like flamencos across your mouth.
But grab your hats! The Costa Blanca’s culinary scene does not stop with paella. Tapas are scattered throughout towns such as Denia, Javea and other coastal areas like confetti during a fiesta. These small plates are packed with flavor — think garlic-infused patatas bravas or crispy gambas all ajillo drizzled with spicy sauce aioli.
I once got lost (not literally!) in Altea’s historic old town, a maze of whitewashed streets with bright bougainvillea flowers flowing down walls as if they were petals. I followed my stomach to an unassuming bodega. Locals gathered in wooden barrels, sipping on vino tinto as they nibbled on thinly-sliced jamon.
Sweets are always a good idea (and who doesn’t like them? You should definitely add churros con chocolat to your next list of things to do! The thick hot chocolate served with these golden fried doughsticks is perfect for dunking or dipping.
We’ll take things a few steps further by exploring Michelin starred restaurants along the sunny coast that offer inventive dishes based on recipes handed down through generations, but given modern twists to leave even seasoned chefs speechless!
Wines produced in the locality of rolling hills, bathed each day by the generous rays above them. Each sip captured sunshine.
If you love to eat, then this is the place for you. Enjoying fresh seafood from fishing boats in nearby harbors and decadent deserts that are made using centuries-old techniques will leave a lasting impression on your heart. You’ll want to come back again soon.