What to eat in Villajoyosa

Villajoyosa is renowned for its rice dishes typical of Alicante cuisine, especially those made with fresh fish and seafood.

Popular recipes include:

• Arròs amb llampuga (rice with dolphinfish)

• Arròs amb ceba (rice with onions)

• Arròs amb espinacs (rice with spinach)

• Other traditional dishes include:

• Suquet de peix (fish stew)

• Polpets amb orenga (baby octopus with oregano)

• Pebrereta (pepper and fish dish)

• The most iconic dish in the area is the “caldero de pescado” (fish caldero).

Local specialities include:

·Tuna roe

·Bonito fish

·Mojama (salt-cured tuna)

These products can be found in local markets and enjoyed as tapas in many bars and restaurants. Most are sourced directly from the town’s fishing port, ensuring freshness and quality.

Villajoyosa is famous for its artisan chocolate tradition, home to several historic factories, including the internationally renowned Chocolates Valor.

Typical sweets include:

·Pastissets de boniato (sweet potato pastries)

·Tortada de almendra (almond cake)

Another must-try is “turrón a la piedra”, known for its creamy texture and subtle lemon flavour.

During summer, don’t miss the local drink “nardo vilero”, made with iced coffee and absinthe.

Villajoyosa has become a leading gastronomic destination in Spain, thanks to its strong culinary identity built around chocolate, fishing and Mediterranean cuisine.