Santa Pola is a food lover’s paradise, with its cuisine deeply influenced by its coastal location. Seafood is a staple in many dishes, with fresh fish, prawns, and shellfish caught daily by the city’s fishing fleet. A standout dish in Santa Pola is “caldero,” a traditional fish stew made with rice, garlic, and saffron. Visitors can also indulge in paella, Spain’s famous rice dish, often made with a combination of seafood and meat.
In addition to seafood, Santa Pola’s gastronomy includes products from the surrounding agricultural areas, such as fresh vegetables, olive oil, and citrus fruits. Tapas bars and seafood restaurants are scattered throughout the city, offering an array of delicious small plates and meals.
For those with a sweet tooth, traditional Spanish desserts like churros, turrón (nougat), and helado (ice cream) are popular in Santa Pola’s many cafes and ice cream parlors. The local food markets, such as Mercado de Abastos, are perfect for exploring the freshest produce and regional specialties.