La Escala’s cuisine is deeply rooted in its coastal setting and fishing traditions. The town is especially famous for its anchovies, which are typically served as tapas or appetizers in local restaurants. The Anchovy Festival, held every September, celebrates this iconic delicacy, drawing visitors from across the region to sample a variety of dishes featuring the fish.
Beyond anchovies, La Escala offers a rich variety of Mediterranean cuisine. Seafood is a staple, with dishes such as suquet de peix (a Catalan fish stew), grilled sardines, and octopus frequently appearing on menus. Local vegetables, olive oil, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme are commonly used in the town’s culinary repertoire.
Visitors can enjoy these traditional dishes at local restaurants like Can Miquel and El Roser, which are highly regarded for their use of fresh, local ingredients. The town also hosts several food markets, where visitors can sample regional products and buy locally made cheeses, wines, and olive oils.