ALICANTE NAMED AS THE SPANISH CAPITAL OF GASTRONOMY FOR 2025

Alicante, in the Valencian Autonomous Community, has been awarded the prestigious title of Spanish Capital of Gastronomy 2025, taking the baton from Oviedo, the 2024 titleholder. The Andalusian town of Antequera earned an honorable mention as runner-up.

The announcement has sparked excitement among gastronomes and tourism enthusiasts, with experts predicting a surge in food-driven tourism to the region.

Manuel Buter, Director of the Spanish Tourist Office in the UK, emphasized Alicante’s culinary prestige:
"Gastronomy is a cornerstone of Alicante's identity and a vital driver of its tourism. The city’s cuisine is celebrated both nationally and internationally, reflecting Spain’s vibrant culinary traditions and the spirited competition that defines its food culture."

The City of 1001 Rice Dishes

Alicante showcases an unrivalled passion for Mediterranean cuisine, with rice at the heart of its culinary identity. Known as the ‘city of one thousand and one rice dishes’, these dishes come in different shapes and sizes such as arroz al horno (baked) and arroz con costra (with a crust) to the iconic arroz a banda (cooked in fish stock). They range from dry rice dishes to creamier recipes such as melosos and even brothy styles, like a caldero from neighbouring Murcia.

The city is home to 37 certified restaurants under the “Alicante City of Rice” quality label, guaranteeing exceptional standards in the preparation of this beloved staple. At the core of these dishes lies the Mediterranean diet’s finest ingredients: extra virgin olive oil; saffron; ñora peppers; and the region’s signature salmorreta seasoning.

This prestigious designation is further bolstered by the introduction of the "Alicante Gourmet" brand, which aims to elevate the city’s gastronomic reputation on a global stage. Beyond rice, Alicante offers a dynamic calendar of culinary events, including the Tapas Trail, Lent Cuisine Days, Gastro Brunches, Alicante Cocktail Week, and more.

A Gastronomic Capital with Unique Identity

Gastronomy is a cornerstone of Alicante's cultural and tourist appeal. The city’s markets, including the historic Central Market and those in Benalúa, Carolinas, and Babel, are celebrated for their high-quality products, authentic local charm, and welcoming atmosphere. With 1,700 dining establishments, including Michelin-starred and Repsol Sol certified establishments, Alicante’s culinary offerings are as diverse as they are distinguished.

An annual highlight of Alicante's gastronomy scene is Alicante Gastronómica, a dynamic culinary fair that invites visitors to taste, savour, and learn from top foodie experts. The event is home to prestigious competitions such as the National Tortilla de Patata Championship, the International Haute Pastry Award dedicated to Paco Torreblanca, and the Mediterranean Rice Competition, alongside creative contests celebrating local ingredients like cured fish and artichokes; prized produce from the Vega Baja region.

A Leading Tourist Destination

As the capital of the Costa Blanca, Alicante is a magnet for travellers seeking sun, culture, and exceptional gastronomy. With nine kilometres of urban beaches certified with the ‘Q’ for Quality by the Spanish Institute of Tourism Quality (ICTE), 8,000 hotel rooms, over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, and a biodiverse natural environment, the city is a dream for holidaymakers. The Santa Cruz district is where visitors will find the Old Town of Alicante, an area of lively and picturesque streets with beautiful white houses decorated in brightly coloured boarders, further solidifying its tourism appeal.