Vilafranca del Penedès is a paradise for food lovers, with a cuisine that reflects the region’s rich agricultural traditions. The city is known for its excellent wine, particularly Cava, and local dishes often incorporate wine in their preparation. Traditional Catalan cuisine dominates the local food scene, with hearty dishes such as “escalivada” (roasted vegetables) and “xató,” a salad made with cod, endives, and romesco sauce.
The region is also famous for its charcuterie, especially “butifarra,” a type of sausage that is often grilled or used in stews. Another local specialty is “cargols a la llauna,” or roasted snails, a dish beloved by many Catalans. Visitors can enjoy these regional delicacies in many of the town’s traditional restaurants and tapas bars.
Wine is, of course, central to the culinary experience in Vilafranca, and many restaurants offer pairings of local wines with their dishes. The city also hosts several food and wine festivals throughout the year, providing visitors with the chance to sample a variety of local flavors.