Top 5 Alicante Food & Drink: A Delicious Review

Alicante, alright, it’s that gem on Spain’s Costa Blanca. The city does grab you, and so you discover that Alicante has great weather, pretty beaches, but that’s not all that this area has to offer. Food and drinks do really shine, so too you’ll find the most amazing culinary delights and flavorful experiences. I mean, in case you didn’t know, this city’s food scene is more or less top-tier. I will share with you a rundown of some must-try things to taste in Alicante. Read our full review: Alicante Food and Drink Full Review and Details

1. Taste the Paella Alicantina

When in Alicante, like, you cannot pass up Paella Alicantina. Paella is a pretty typical Spanish dish, and you have the same basic construction wherever you are, that too with some variety across different regions. Rice is sort of simmered with saffron, and mixed with seafood, plus that’s so typically paired with rabbit or chicken or a combination of both; Paella Alicantina offers this taste of fresh, land-to-sea combinations. This dish shows how locally-sourced stuff really enhances food quality.
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2. Try the Turrón de Jijona

Now, I feel like I have to get something clear right away about what I’m recommending to you here, and that is: it’s not just any nougat, that specific type, but I’m talking about Turrón de Jijona, often called “soft turrón”, very smooth, unlike versions of nougat that feature full pieces of almonds or are even shatteringly hard. Jijona is arguably a town near Alicante that has that Indicación Geográfica Protegida status, I would say, which sort of protects its traditional process. It also speaks to what almonds and honey sources can be called ‘authentic.’ It might be worth it just to know the local stories on it when you try Turrón de Jijona.
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3. Drink the Fondillón Wine

Speaking of things that Alicante has that speak to that specific geographic origin or history, in this case, a certain type of wine should be something that comes to mind for you when visiting. A sweet wine does bring so much joy into your day; Fondillón could be exactly what you’re craving. You probably wouldn’t expect the historic reverence afforded this dessert wine. It actually was lauded by kings in previous eras! Its distinctness arises from the Monastrell grapes after they get sun-dried and get their aging process done just right. Maybe it’s got you planning how to acquire your own rare and delicious taste.
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4. Devour Coca amb Tonyina

There seems to be more than one variation of “coca” to be found and loved in Spanish cuisine, yet Alicante gives you its own spin. Unlike other coca recipes across the peninsula, Coca amb Tonyina features that yummy combo of tuna, onions, and pine nuts, all that sitting on a baked dough. It’s kind of great for a snack or like light meal. That’s often enjoyed especially during Las Hogueras festival; though honestly I can imagine there’s really not a wrong time of year to indulge yourself with a savory delight.
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5. Sample Arroz a Banda

If paella is kind of well-known and a dish more or less ubiquitous in Spain, Alicante still gives rice lovers some options to try something new; and there’s always Arroz a Banda. Often compared with its better-known cousin paella; there’s good reasons why this dish is more beloved in Alicante. So you should also know that this version simmers that rice in fish broth; and I want to also mention it usually comes with seafood as add-ins (often shellfish!). When locals offer Arroz a Banda on the menu; that probably means they’re also willing to serve it with a side of that flavor-rich alioli sauce which I believe adds more depth to the experience.
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