Manilva’s cuisine is a reflection of its coastal location and agricultural traditions, offering a delightful mix of seafood, fresh produce, and locally made wines. Fish and seafood dishes dominate the menus of local restaurants, with sardines, prawns, and octopus being particularly popular. A local favorite is espetos de sardinas, which are sardines grilled on skewers over an open flame on the beach.
The town’s inland location also means that fresh vegetables and fruits play a major role in its cuisine, and Manilva’s sweet Muscatel grapes are often served as a dessert or used in local wine production. Other typical dishes include gazpacho (a cold tomato soup), and pescaíto frito (fried fish), which can be found in most tapas bars and restaurants.
Local eateries, such as those in the port of La Duquesa and Sabinillas, offer a variety of dining experiences, from casual beach bars (chiringuitos) to upscale restaurants. Wine lovers will find plenty of opportunities to sample the town’s renowned Muscatel wines, either at local vineyards or at food festivals held throughout the year.