Some places are discovered with your eyes. Others can only truly be understood through taste. Alicante is one of those destinations where the culture, the land and the sea tell their stories—mainly at the table.
When we talk about Gastronomic Experiences in this part of the Mediterranean, we’re not just referring to dishes or recipes. We’re talking about a way of life—about traditions passed down through generations, and about aromas that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
That’s why, if you’re looking for more than just sun and beaches in Alicante, we invite you to join us on this personal journey through some of the city’s most authentic markets and local wineries—places where gastronomy is lived, touched and celebrated every single day.
A Stroll Through Alicante’s Central Market
Our route always begins here, in the heart of the city. The Central Market of Alicante is not just a market—it’s a theatre of daily life, where locals shop, greet each other, and carefully select each product.
The moment you walk in, you’re wrapped in the scent of both sea and soil: freshly caught fish from the harbor, fruits and vegetables from nearby orchards, sausages hanging like works of art. And amid all the bustle, there’s always time for a smile, a tip, a “try this cheese, it’s amazing.”
When we speak of Gastronomic Experiences, this market is the perfect starting point. Because here, you’re not just seeing ingredients—you’re living them.
You can linger by the seafood stalls, follow the smell of cured meats, or simply sit at a small bar and enjoy impromptu tapas as life flows around you.
And the best part: you’re not a tourist here. You’re one of us.
Traditional Wineries: The Flavor of the Land
Just a short drive inland from Alicante lies a lesser-known yet equally fascinating landscape: vineyards that produce some of the province’s most characteristic wines.
A must-stop on our Gastronomic Experience route is visiting one of the local wineries in the areas of Monóvar, Pinoso or Villena.
Here, between rows of vines and small villages, one of the region’s best-kept secrets is waiting: Fondillón, a sweet aged wine crafted using traditional methods dating back to the 15th century.
Many of these wineries are family-run and always welcome visitors warmly. It’s not just about tasting wine—it’s about understanding what’s behind every glass: the climate, the land, the slow passage of time in every barrel.
Bodega Monóvar or Bodegas Francisco Gómez are just two examples of places where you can walk through vineyards, smell the oak barrels, and taste wines you won’t find in any supermarket. And at the end, the feeling is always the same: you’ve become part of something truly genuine.
Dining at the Markets: More Than Just Tapas
Back in central Alicante, there’s another market we especially love for its relaxed and modern atmosphere: Mercado de la Luz.
This space offers a different concept: small food stalls combined with shared tables. You can order fresh oysters, a cheese board, or a mini paella—paired with local wines or craft beers.
These kinds of spots have become favorites for those seeking Gastronomic Experiences that blend tradition with innovation. Because Alicante’s cuisine isn’t something locked in a museum—it’s alive, evolving, and adapting to new tastes while staying true to its essence.
And the best part? You can take your time, chat with the cooks, discover new ingredients, and create your own food journey at your pace.
Rice, the Undisputed King
When talking about Alicante, we can’t forget about rice. Here, rice is more than just a dish—it’s a cultural icon.
From Alicante-style paella to arroz del senyoret or lobster rice stew, each variety has its own technique, story, and special moment.
One of the best Gastronomic Experiences you can enjoy is joining a workshop or cooking class where you don’t just eat rice—you learn how to make it. Often, these activities take place in rural homes or open-air settings where cooking becomes a social event.
Or, if you prefer, simply follow the locals and enjoy the flavors at well-known restaurants like Dársena by the port or El Portal in the city center—places where every bite tells you something about the land.
Local Identity in Every Bite: Nougat, Salted Fish and More
Alicante is also the land of turrón (nougat). If you’re traveling in winter, don’t miss a visit to Jijona, where this sweet is still made using traditional recipes in family-run factories.
And if you’re more into savory flavors, salted fish products are another local treasure: mojama (cured tuna), dried roe, salt cod… strong, historical flavors full of character.
These small delights are a key part of any Gastronomic Experience in the region. You’ll find them in markets and specialty shops alike, where you can taste, ask questions, and take home something truly unique.
Wine and Sobremesa: An Art in Itself
In Alicante, the meal doesn’t end when the plates are cleared. Here, sobremesa—the time spent lingering after a meal—is almost sacred. It’s the moment when conversations stretch, stories are shared, and, of course, new bottles are opened.
A proper sobremesa on a seaside terrace, with a local wine or a glass of herbero (a typical mountain liqueur), is the perfect finishing touch to any food experience.
Because if we’ve learned anything from organizing Gastronomic Experiences, it’s that it’s not just about what you eat—it’s about how, where, and with whom you share it.
Alicante: A Journey to Be Tasted
What we love most about our land is that gastronomy here isn’t just an extra—it’s at the very heart of local culture. Every market, every winery, every dish tells a story.
So when someone asks us why they should experience Gastronomic Experiences in Alicante, we always answer the same way: because here, food isn’t just served on a plate. It’s lived in every corner, every conversation, and every toast.
And once you experience it… it’s hard to forget.
