Mediterranean menus borrow freely across the sea — olive oil, fish, vegetables, citrus — and tend to be the easiest choice for a mixed table.
In Valencia the Mediterranean list is led by Begoña Rodrigo (La Salita) in Ruzafa (One MICHELIN Star, €130-€160 / $140-$175 per person). If you want the same cooking for less, Alma de Temple at €35-€65 / $40-$70 is the value pick.
- 1.
Begoña Rodrigo (La Salita)
One MICHELIN StarCreative Mediterranean · Ruzafa · €130-€160 / $140-$175
Begoña Rodrigo
Begoña Rodrigo's La Salita, housed in a beautifully restored palace, presents an imaginative and deeply personal take on Valencian cuisine. Her dishes are highly artistic, often featuring unexpected combinations and intricate plating, while always prioritizing flavor and seasonal Spanish produce. The restaurant offers a unique sensory journey that reflects Rodrigo's distinctive culinary vision and innovative spirit.
Order: Mushroom and truffle 'forest'; 'Carbonara' of sea urchin
- 2.
Alma de Temple
Bib GourmandCreative Mediterranean · Ciutat Vella · €35-€65 / $40-$70
Alma de Temple offers a contemporary take on Mediterranean cuisine within a beautifully restored 18th-century building, featuring a charming interior that blends historic architecture with modern design. The dishes are well-executed, showcasing fresh, local ingredients with imaginative twists and appealing presentations. It's a relaxed yet refined dining spot, providing excellent value for its quality and inviting ambiance near the city's historic center.
Order: Red tuna tataki with avocado and mango; Cod confit with black garlic
Booking a Mediterranean table in Valencia
- · For Michelin-starred restaurants, book 2-4 months in advance, especially for weekend dinner reservations. Some offer online systems, while others prefer phone calls.
- · Many fine-dining establishments require a credit card guarantee or a non-refundable deposit to secure your table, which is deducted from your final bill.
- · Consider booking lunch. Often, the tasting menus are similar or slightly abbreviated versions of dinner offerings but at a more accessible price point, providing excellent value.
- · Be aware of cancellation policies. Most top restaurants have strict no-show or late cancellation fees, typically charging a significant per-person amount.
And the local dishes in Valencia
Paella Valenciana
The quintessential dish of Valencia, an authentic Paella Valenciana is cooked with rice, chicken, rabbit, green beans, and garrofó (a local white bean), often over an open wood fire. It's a flavorful, saffron-infused rice dish best enjoyed fresh at a traditional 'arrocería' or by the beach, offering a true taste of the region's culinary heritage.
Horchata con Fartons
Horchata is a refreshing, milky drink made from tiger nuts (chufas), originating from Valencia. It's naturally sweet and often served chilled. It's traditionally accompanied by 'fartons,' elongated, sugary pastries perfect for dipping. This classic combination is a beloved local snack, especially during warmer months, providing a unique and satisfying treat.
Esgarraet
Esgarraet is a traditional Valencian salad made with roasted red peppers and salted cod (bacalao), often dressed with olive oil and garlic. The ingredients are 'torn' into strips, giving the dish its name. It's a simple yet incredibly flavorful tapa, showcasing the quality of local produce and traditional preparation methods, often found in traditional tapas bars.
Fideuà
Similar to paella but made with short, thin noodles instead of rice, Fideuà typically features seafood like prawns, mussels, and squid, cooked in a rich fish broth. The noodles absorb the savory flavors beautifully, and it's often served with a dollop of aioli. This dish offers a delicious alternative to paella, particularly popular along the coast.
Other cuisines in Valencia
Seven days in Valencia
Pair these Mediterranean tables with the full itinerary: neighbourhoods, museums and what to skip.
Read the Valencia travel guide