Vendrell’s cuisine is a celebration of the Mediterranean diet, featuring fresh seafood, local produce, and Catalan culinary traditions. Paella, arroz a banda (rice with fish), and suquet de peix (a traditional fish stew) are common dishes that visitors can enjoy at local restaurants along the coast. The region is also known for its variety of seafood, including mussels, prawns, and anchovies, which are often served with local olive oil and herbs.
Another local specialty is calçots, a type of green onion that is grilled and served with romesco sauce, made from roasted peppers, almonds, and tomatoes. This dish is typically enjoyed during the winter months in large communal gatherings known as calçotadas. Additionally, the city is part of the Penedès wine region, making its local wines and cava an essential part of any meal in Vendrell.
For dessert, visitors should try crema catalana, a rich custard dessert similar to crème brûlée, and panellets, small almond-based pastries traditionally enjoyed during the autumn festival of La Castanyada.