Discover the best restaurants in Costa Brava for a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.
Photo by Jay Wennington
The Costa Brava is renowned not only for its stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes but also for its vibrant culinary scene. From quaint seaside taverns to Michelin-starred establishments, the region offers a rich variety of dining experiences to cater to all tastes. Food is a fundamental part of the Costa Brava experience, reflecting the region’s cultural heritage and natural bounty. This article will take you on a culinary journey through some of the best restaurants in Costa Brava, highlighting their unique offerings and why they stand out. Whether you are a food connoisseur or simply enjoy a good meal, the Costa Brava promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
Top rated restaurants
El Celler de Can Roca, Girona
El Celler de Can Roca, located in Girona, is helmed by the Roca brothers and is celebrated as one of the best restaurants in the world. The restaurant blends traditional Catalan dishes with innovative culinary techniques. The ambiance is elegant yet welcoming, with a modern design that complements the exquisite food. The spacious and sophisticated dining room provides a perfect setting for a special occasion or a memorable meal.
Signature dishes
El Celler de Can Roca is known for its meticulously crafted tasting menus, which change seasonally to highlight the freshest ingredients. Standout dishes include:
- Charcoal-grilled king prawn: Showcasing the prawn’s natural sweetness, enhanced by subtle smoky flavours.
- Caramelized olives: An inventive dish that transforms olives into a sweet treat.
- The trip to Havana: A dessert inspired by a journey to Cuba, featuring chocolate, rum, and tobacco leaf.
Compartir, Cadaqués
Compartir, meaning “to share” in Catalan, is located in the picturesque coastal town of Cadaqués. It is a collaboration between three former chefs of El Bulli and focuses on contemporary tapas designed to be shared. The relaxed and casual ambiance, with a modern interior, reflects the restaurant’s innovative approach to traditional Catalan cuisine. The bright, airy dining room and outdoor terrace create a welcoming environment for communal dining.
Signature dishes
Compartir’s menu features a variety of creative tapas that highlight local ingredients and flavours. Signature dishes include:
- Tomato tartare: A fresh and vibrant dish made with finely chopped tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil, served with crispy bread.
- Octopus with potato foam: A modern take on a classic dish featuring tender octopus paired with light, airy potato foam.
- Passion fruit sorbet with coconut foam: A refreshing dessert combining tropical flavours in a light, frothy sorbet.
Miramar, Llançà
Miramar, located in Llançà, is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering a sublime dining experience. Chef Paco Pérez presents avant-garde cuisine rooted in local traditions and flavours of the Costa Brava. The restaurant’s location by the sea provides a stunning backdrop, and the minimalist décor enhances the focus on the culinary masterpieces served. The intimate dining room and attentive service create an atmosphere of refined elegance.
Signature dishes
Miramar’s menu features innovative dishes that push the boundaries of traditional Catalan cuisine. Standout creations include:
- Sea urchin with caviar: Combining the rich, briny flavours of sea urchin and caviar with delicate precision.
- Turbot with black garlic and citrus: A beautifully plated fish dish balancing the rich flavours of black garlic with citrus brightness.
- Chocolate textures: A dessert showcasing different forms and flavours of chocolate, providing a decadent end to the meal.
Casamar, Llafranc
Casamar, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Llafranc, is known for its creative take on traditional Catalan cuisine. The restaurant offers a cosy, intimate setting with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The simple yet elegant décor allows the focus to remain on the beautifully presented dishes. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes Casamar perfect for a romantic dinner or special celebration.
Signature dishes
Casamar’s menu highlights the best of local produce and seafood. Signature offerings include:
- Squid with black rice: A classic Catalan dish reimagined with a modern twist.
- Lamb with rosemary and honey: Combining the earthy flavours of rosemary with the sweetness of honey.
- Apple tart with vanilla ice cream: Pairing a classic apple tart with creamy vanilla ice cream for a comforting yet sophisticated finish.
La Blava, Calella de Palafrugell
La Blava, nestled in the picturesque coastal town of Calella de Palafrugell, offers an enchanting dining experience right by the sea. This family-run restaurant exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere with its rustic charm and stunning views of the Mediterranean. The outdoor terrace, overlooking the beach, is the perfect spot for a leisurely meal, allowing diners to enjoy the gentle sea breeze and breath-taking sunsets. La Blava focuses on traditional Catalan cuisine, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both simple and flavourful.
Signature dishes
La Blava’s menu features a variety of traditional Catalan dishes, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and seasonal produce. Some of the standout dishes include:
- Calamars de potera a l’andalusa: Andalusian-style jig-caught squid served with a green curry mayonnaise, showcasing a delightful blend of textures and flavours.
- Tàrtar de filet de tonyina Bluefin: Hand-cut Bluefin tuna fillet tartare with a touch of wasabi, offering a fresh and vibrant taste that highlights the quality of the tuna.
- Rossejat de fideus negres i calamars: Black noodles cooked with squid ink and squid, creating a visually stunning and flavourful dish.
Local cuisine specialties
Traditional Catalan Dishes
The culinary heritage of the Costa Brava is deeply rooted in traditional Catalan cuisine, known for its bold flavours and use of fresh local ingredients. Here are some must-try traditional dishes:
- Escudella i Carn d’Olla: A hearty stew with various meats and vegetables, often accompanied by pasta shells or rice.
- Suquet de Peix: A classic fish stew made with a variety of fish and shellfish in a rich tomato and saffron broth.
- Escalivada: A dish of grilled vegetables, typically red peppers, aubergines, and onions, drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt.
Seafood Delights
Given its coastal location, the Costa Brava is renowned for its fresh seafood. Local cuisine features various seafood dishes that highlight the region’s maritime heritage.
- Gambas de Palamós: Prized red shrimp known for their sweet flavour, often grilled and served with sea salt.
- Arròs negre: Black rice made with cuttlefish ink, flavoured with garlic, onions, and tomatoes, often garnished with aioli.
- Fideuà: Similar to paella but made with noodles, featuring a variety of seafood cooked in a savoury broth.
Regional Ingredients and Cooking Methods
The cuisine of the Costa Brava is characterised by its use of fresh local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
- Olive Oil: Fundamental in Catalan cuisine, adding depth and richness to many dishes.
- Herbs and Spices: Rosemary, thyme, and saffron add complexity and enhance natural flavours.
- Charcoal Grilling: Imparts a distinctive smoky flavour, popular for preparing seafood and meats.
- Slow Cooking: Allows flavours to meld and intensify, essential for stews and braised dishes like Escudella i Carn d’Olla and Suquet de Peix.
Dining etiquette and tips
Local dining customs
Understanding local dining customs can enhance your culinary experience in the Costa Brava. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Meal Times
- Lunch and Dinner: In the Costa Brava, lunch is typically the main meal of the day and is served between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Dinner is usually lighter and served later, from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Restaurants often close between lunch and dinner, so plan your meals accordingly.
- Tapas: Tapas are small dishes meant to be shared and are often enjoyed in the late afternoon or evening, especially as a pre-dinner snack.
Sharing Dishes
- Family Style: It is common to order several dishes to share among the table. This family-style approach allows everyone to taste a variety of flavors and dishes.
- Tapas and Raciones: Tapas are smaller portions, while raciones are larger, plate-sized portions. Both are meant for sharing.
Bread and Olive Oil
- Complementary Bread: Bread is typically served with meals, often accompanied by olive oil or aioli for dipping. It is not usually eaten with butter.
- Pa Amb Tomàquet: A traditional Catalan way to enjoy bread is to rub it with ripe tomatoes, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.
Best times to dine out
Knowing the best times to dine can help you enjoy a more relaxed and authentic experience:
- Reservations: Popular restaurants can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. It is advisable to make reservations in advance, particularly for dinner.
- Off-Peak Dining: For a quieter experience, consider dining slightly earlier or later than typical meal times. Arriving at a restaurant around 12:30 PM for lunch or 7:30 PM for dinner can help you avoid the busiest periods.
Making reservations and tipping
Making Reservations
- Phone and Online: Many restaurants in the Costa Brava accept reservations by phone or through their websites. Some also use reservation platforms like OpenTable or TheFork.
- Special Requests: When making a reservation, feel free to mention any special requests, such as dietary restrictions or preferred seating.
Tipping
- Service Included: In many restaurants, service charges are included in the bill. However, it is customary to leave a small tip for good service.
- Tipping Amount: A tip of 5-10% is generally appreciated. For excellent service, you can leave a bit more. Tipping in cash is preferred, even if you pay the bill by card.
Paying the Bill
- Asking for the Bill: In Spain, the bill is not usually brought to the table until you ask for it. You can signal the waiter by saying “La cuenta, por favor” (The bill, please).
- Splitting the Bill: If dining with a group, it is common to split the bill evenly among all diners, unless someone volunteers to treat.
Embrace the flavours of the Costa Brava
The Costa Brava offers a culinary landscape as diverse and beautiful as its scenic coastlines. From Michelin-starred restaurants to charming local eateries, there is something for every palate. The region’s traditional Catalan dishes, fresh seafood, and innovative culinary creations make it a gastronomic paradise. Dining in the Costa Brava is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together to share flavours, stories, and moments.
As you explore the culinary delights of the Costa Brava, remember to embrace both the planned and spontaneous moments. Whether enjoying a meticulously crafted tasting menu at El Celler de Can Roca or savouring freshly grilled prawns at a seaside tavern, let your taste buds guide you on this unforgettable journey. Bon appétit!
