€€Rice Dishes, Regional Cuisine
If you’re planning a relaxing day out with a swim, this restaurant located between Valencia and the Parque Natural de La Albufera could be the perfect option for you. Part of the renowned Arrocería Maribel (El Palmar) restaurant group, it has the added bonus of a lounge and pool area where you can relax while enjoying a post-meal swim and drink. The traditional Valencian cuisine on offer features an impressive array of rice dishes (most of its paellas and creamy rice options need to be selected when you make your booking). The perfect setting for a family get-together!
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Arrocería Pinedo Beach in Alfafar specializes in rice dishes and regional cuisine. Reviews highlight high food quality, featuring crispy bread, tender squid, and flavorful rice, alongside friendly and accommodating service. However, some guests criticize inconsistent meal pacing, with long intervals between courses, and express disappointment over bland flavors or insufficient meat portions. The atmosphere is generally pleasant, though the poolside chill-out area can become noisy during summer. Value perceptions vary; while many find the experience rewarding, others consider the pricing high relative to portion sizes or complain about the cost of sunbed rentals.
Suitable for travelers seeking authentic rice dishes and a seaside vibe, but allow ample time for dining due to potential pacing issues.
€€Japanese
A Japanese restaurant with a zen-like ambience that is enjoying considerable success. Modern Japanese cuisine that is easily recognisable to the general public, including a wide choice of starters. We recommend booking ahead.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Nozomi Sushi Bar in Valencia holds an average rating of 4.7/5. Reviewers consistently praise the high-quality ingredients, professional and friendly service, and tranquil atmosphere, with some considering it the top Japanese dining option. Dishes are noted for their exquisite presentation and sensory appeal. Negative feedback primarily concerns reservation management errors leading to denied entry, occasional service dissatisfaction, and mixed views on value for money. Some suggest varying the nigiri selection in tasting menus. While the culinary experience and ambiance are highly rated, guests should verify reservations carefully to avoid issues.
Ideal for diners seeking high-quality Japanese cuisine and a peaceful atmosphere, but ensure reservation details are confirmed in advance.
€€Contemporary, Grills
Carito Lourenço and Germán Carrizo's more casual proposal, a short hop from Fierro, their award-winning restaurant, has found its space in an old bar in the Ruzafa neighbourhood. Conceptually, we find a modern bistro with a wide and varied menu, even featuring a cocktail section. A maturation chamber with various fish (brimming with sea bream or sea bass, which usually mature for seven days) is a surprising sight, and appetizing pieces of both picaña and Galician blonde cutlet (requiring about 50 days of maturation). The menu, which allows the grill to take the limelight, includes small bites
€€€spanish/valencian cuisine
An attractive restaurant with a bistro ambience and rustic-contemporary decor. On its menus (L'Eixample, Na Germana and Lo Rat Penat), all of which are available with a wine pairing, chef Vicente Patiño takes us on a gastronomic journey via Mediterranean cooking that is rooted in tradition but approached from a more modern perspective. Dishes on the menu here range from the local “all I pebre” of white prawns and cacao, to blue crab, and signature dishes such as the celery meringue.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.0/5 · 80 reviews
Saiti offers Spanish Valencian cuisine with mixed reviews. Food quality is frequently praised for its artistic presentation, creative flavor combinations, and Mediterranean essence, though some guests found dishes bland, basic, or insufficiently portioned. Service is generally described as warm, professional, and attentive, with occasional inconsistencies in pacing. The ambiance is noted as pleasant and quiet. Value perception varies significantly; while some find the experience justified, many criticize the high cost relative to small portions, particularly regarding signature tapas, leading to concerns about price-to-quality ratio.
Suitable for diners seeking refined, creative cuisine who are less price-sensitive; check portion sizes beforehand.
🕐 Mo 13:00-15:30; Tu 13:00-15:30, 20:00-22:00; We 13:00-15:30; Th-Sa 13:00-15:30, 20:00-22:00; PH off
€€Traditional Cuisine, Rice Dishes
In a building that began its journey as a bar in 1950 and a historical spot in the city, and no wonder... the Mostra de València-Cinema film festival was first established here! It offers a traditional Mediterranean à la carte featuring an impressive choice of starters (don’t pass up the chance to try the amazing Mosquitos, small battered crayfish, or the GOYA cuttlefish with mayonnaise) as well as for its wonderful section of dry and honeyed rice dishes, the house speciality (rice dishes must be ordered before 12:00 noon the same day). We recommend booking ahead as it usually fills up with lo
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.1/5 · 80 reviews
Goya Gallery specializes in traditional Valencian cuisine and rice dishes, holding an average rating of 4.1/5. Food quality is a standout feature, with Paella, seafood rice, and starters like croquettes receiving high praise for richness and generous portions. However, some reviews note issues such as overly salty paella or tough squid. Service is mixed; while staff members like David are commended for attentiveness, frequent complaints cite slow pacing, missing bread/oil, and unhelpful service regarding wine lists. The atmosphere is pleasant and suitable for groups. Although the food offers good value, inconsistent service detracts from the overall experience. Reservations for Paella are recommended 24 hours in advance.
Ideal for diners seeking authentic Valencian cuisine who can overlook occasional service lapses; book Paella 24 hours in advance.
€€Traditional Cuisine
A contemporary-style restaurant that describes its traditionally inspired Valencian cuisine in a single premise: “We cook in the same painstaking way as in the past, but with a modern touch”. On the à la carte, with its focus on traditional, market-inspired cuisine, and featuring an array of suggestions with a focus on wild-caught fish of the day, you’ll also find delicious rice dishes (Arròs del Senyoret, Arroz en Perol Marinero, Paella de Costilla Ibérica with vegetables, Arroz en perol de montaña) which need to be pre-ordered. Make sure you also sample the exquisite cod fritters (Buñuelos d
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews
Yarza in Valencia specializes in traditional cuisine, holding an average rating of 4.4/5. Food quality is a standout feature, with fresh seafood and skilled preparation earning Michelin recognition. Service is generally praised for being attentive and welcoming, though some guests reported issues with perceived arrogance or overly intrusive staff. The ambiance is modern and well-maintained, offering a quiet atmosphere despite limited space and some windowless areas. Value perceptions vary; while many find the experience worthwhile, others cite high prices relative to portion sizes or occasional errors in temperature and seasoning. Reservations are essential due to popularity. This restaurant suits diners seeking authentic Valencian flavors and high culinary standards, provided they are comfortable with its specific service style.
Ideal for diners seeking authentic Valencian cuisine who are comfortable with advance reservations.
€€€Japanese Contemporary
If you enjoy fusion cuisine, this Japanese restaurant is a must as it takes its relationship with the Mediterranean one step further thanks to the unique blend of Japanese-Italian cooking that comes courtesy of young chef Bo Jimmy Zhu, who hails from the town of Asti in Italy’s Piedmont region. His dishes are based around the Omakase philosophy which only works with the very best market-inspired ingredients. These are served at the bar (there is also a private space with a more exclusive ambience) and are centred around three enticing menus: Bohan, Honbo and Haku. The superb nigiris here are p
€€€regional
The high-level cuisine at this contemporary restaurant close to the Mercado de Colón comes as an impressive surprise, thanks to its complete focus on fire, the grill and smoke – techniques which chef Eduardo Espejo manages in an almost primitive yet masterful way. As you look into the open-view kitchen it has a stage-like appearance (when they serve the last order the team closes the curtain to signify the end of the culinary performance), you catch sight of fish ready in their individual grill racks, as well as delicious meats and select vegetables that crackle over the embers. It is usually
🕐 Mo-Sa 14:00-17:30,21:00-24:30; Su off
€€Contemporary, International
This unusual restaurant, part of chef Ricard Camarena’s stable, boasts a surprising design and layout on the lower floor of the Modernist-style Mercado de Colón. The extensive and affordable à la carte features several of the famous chef’s dishes from the past, with a focus on Mediterranean cooking but with the occasional nod to international cuisine.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
Located on the lower level of Mercado Colon, Habitual offers contemporary international cuisine under Ricard Camarena. Food quality is generally praised, with white asparagus, cod, and filet highlighted, though desserts and meal pacing receive mixed feedback. Service is polarizing; while staff like Anna and Alvaro are commended for hospitality, some guests report rudeness and billing errors regarding drinks. The spacious atmosphere suits groups and families. Value perceptions vary, with some finding it fair and others noting high prices relative to the experience. Overall, it is a popular choice for its location and diverse menu, despite occasional operational inconsistencies.
Suitable for travelers seeking convenient market dining who can tolerate occasional service inconsistencies.
€€€spanish, regional
A popular restaurant with an open-view kitchen and the hallmark of chef Quique Dacosta. The focus here is on high-quality produce with no artificial flavourings, top-quality cured ingredients, and superb rice cooked on orange wood and vine shoots. We can definitely recommend the creamy rice with smoked eel and free-range chicken, and delicious stews, with special mention to dishes cooked on the open grill. The à la carte is complemented by the Temporada (Season) tasting menu. The finishing touches to some dishes are added at your table.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.4/5 · 80 reviews
Llisa Negra, a Spanish regional restaurant in Valencia, holds an average TripAdvisor rating of 3.4/5 from 80 reviews. Positive feedback highlights food quality, service, and atmosphere, particularly praising the open kitchen, wine list, and dishes like monkfish, pork tenderloin, and cheesecake. However, negative reviews frequently cite inconsistent food quality, poor service, and perceived lack of value. Some guests reported unpleasant treatment and dissatisfaction with specific items, while others noted issues with meal pacing. Although recommended by the Michelin Guide, experiences vary significantly. The chic ambiance and detailed attention are appreciated by many, but potential diners should be aware of mixed reviews regarding service attitude and overall value for money.
Suitable for diners seeking a chic atmosphere and refined Valencian cuisine who are tolerant of variable service standards.
€€spanish, tapas
Located next door to Flores Raras, one of Valencia’s fabled gourmet addresses, Vuelve Carolina stands out for its casual, informal feel. The proposal is one of a great culinary journey through the trends of the world and its markets (Surquillo in Lima, Jemaa el-Fna in Marrakech, Toyosu in Tokyo, the floating market of Khlong Lat Mayom in Bangkok, and more). It is a great place for a fun and relaxed dining experience where you can share dishes with friends, including some of award-winning chef Quique Dacosta’s most iconic dishes (such as his Cuba Libre of foie gras with lemon peel, arugula and
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.6/5 · 80 reviews
Vuelve Carolina in Valencia offers Spanish tapas and fusion cuisine with mixed reviews. Food quality is polarizing; while some praise the creamy potato balls, foie gras, and innovative dishes, others criticize excessive spicing, poor presentation, or insufficient portions. Service is generally highlighted as warm and professional, with specific staff members like Rachid, Princess, and Alberto receiving commendations, though delays and communication issues were noted. The ambiance is described as unique, elegant, and immersive due to its remarkable decor. Value for money is debated, with some finding the tasting menus reasonable and others considering them pricey for the experience. Overall, it provides a distinctive dining atmosphere with variable culinary execution.
Suitable for diners seeking a unique decorative atmosphere and creative cuisine, who are tolerant of varying flavor profiles.
€€€Farm to table
The very best the Mediterranean has to offer! The menu, announced at your table, focuses on fish and seafood and changes daily subject to availability at the fish auction.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 56 reviews
El Bressol is noted for high-quality Valencian local produce and seafood, with frequent praise for its wine selection and desserts. The atmosphere is described as exclusive and intimate, though some find the service overly intrusive or the lack of other diners off-putting. While overall ratings are strong, negative reviews highlight issues with rude staff, cancelled reservations, and opaque pricing due to the lack of a fixed menu. Some guests consider the cost excessive relative to the experience, indicating mixed perceptions of value.
Suitable for diners seeking premium local flavors who accept a chef's tasting format; verify reservation details in advance.
€€Traditional Cuisine
A spacious and modern restaurant just a few steps from the Plaza de Zaragoza that is full every day – a success based on its simple motto of “rice and grilled dishes”. Its interior, a mix of the rustic and contemporary, provides the backdrop for its famous rice dishes (for a minimum of two people) and grilled options ranging from fish fresh from the market and top-quality cuts of meat. The à la carte is complemented by an impressive array of specials, including a variety of stews and seafood options.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.3/5 · 80 reviews
Gran Azul offers traditional Valencian cuisine with mixed reception. Food quality is polarizing; some praise the seafood rice and fish as exceptional, while others criticize small portions and poor execution. Service is generally described as friendly and professional, though isolated complaints cite rudeness or indifference. The atmosphere is noted as relaxed and modern. Value perception varies widely. While some find it reasonable, many report high prices, misleading menu pricing regarding portion sizes, and poor cost-performance ratios, feeling the experience does not justify the expense.
Suitable for diners seeking traditional flavors who are less price-sensitive and can tolerate variable portion sizes.