Gastronomic Tourism on the Costa Blanca

Gastronomic Tourism

Gastronomic tourism is on the rise, and it’s no surprise that gastronomy, tourism, and culture are becoming part of a global trend. This type of tourism is not just about enjoying a good meal and a drink; it’s a way to connect with the cultural heritage of the region we visit.

Travelers are increasingly tired of conventional tourism and seek unique and authentic experiences. This is where gastronomic tourism truly shines. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the average tourist spends about one-third of their holiday budget on gastronomy.

What quality is most valued by tourists seeking a gastronomic experience?

Good Food Ireland states: “Gastronomic tourism and culture have become the main attractions of travel, with authenticity being the most important value for today’s consumers.” Many tourists come to the Costa Blanca looking for sun and beaches, only to discover that the province of Alicante has much more to offer, especially in terms of gastronomy.

We could say that the cuisine of the Costa Blanca is divided into two main areas: the coast and the interior. The coast specializes in fresh fish and seafood, while the interior features dishes more influenced by meats and produce from the countryside. Among all these, the various types of rice dishes stand out, prepared throughout the province and including rice with meat, fish, seafood, and, of course, vegetables from the local gardens.

Guardamar del Segura
Guardamar del Segura is a coastal town located in the southeast of the province. When it comes to gastronomy, it boasts two star products: the prawn and the Guardamar ñora pepper. These products lend their name to the Ñora and Prawn Gastronomic Week of Guardamar, held every year in June.

Hotel Meridional
Hotel Meridional is a gastro-hotel located in Guardamar that offers various gastronomic experiences for tourists seeking not only to enjoy the town’s 11 kilometers of beaches but also a carefully curated cuisine at one of its two restaurants.

On one hand, there’s El Jardín Restaurant, which offers a daily menu based on Mediterranean cuisine with some international influences. The highlight dishes include a variety of rice specialties (a banda, del senyoret, turbot and red prawn, seafood, rabbit and free-range chicken, vegetables with grilled Iberian pork, black rice…) as well as daily fish and seafood suggestions that vary according to what’s available at the fish markets of Guardamar, Santa Pola, or Torrevieja.

Ñam Gastrobar
On the other hand, within the same building, you’ll find Ñam Gastrobar. This venue features modern, colorful, and cosmopolitan décor with sea views. The gastrobar offers a gastronomic concept focused on creative, well-crafted tapas that emphasize high-quality ingredients and meticulous presentation. The menu is designed for sharing and socializing while enjoying a unique dining experience.

With an international cooking style, you’ll also find reimagined classics of Spanish cuisine, along with unique and authentic tapas you won’t taste in other restaurants. Not to mention a carefully curated selection of cocktails to pair with your meal, featuring rum, gin, vodka, or whiskey. Be sure to save room for dessert, as there’s a very special dessert section, also designed for sharing and indulging in singular and delicious flavors. Highlights include sweet fruit curry, Ñora sponge cake with white chocolate fondillón, or artichoke mascarpone with yuzu.

If you’re in the mood to savor the most authentic tapas in Guardamar, don’t hesitate to reserve your table by calling 659 181 652 or visiting the website www.namgastrobar.es.