Calpe is known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, with a strong emphasis on seafood, reflecting its maritime heritage. One of the city’s signature dishes is arroz a banda, a type of rice dish cooked in fish stock, which is widely regarded as a local specialty. Paella, another traditional Spanish dish, is also popular in Calpe, often prepared with seafood caught fresh from the Mediterranean.
Visitors can also indulge in caldero, a hearty fish stew traditionally cooked by fishermen, or sample gambas rojas (red prawns), which are considered a delicacy in the region. For dessert, try turrón, a sweet almond nougat that is a staple in Alicante province, especially during the holiday season. Local wines, particularly those produced from the nearby vineyards of the Jalon Valley, complement the culinary experience.
Calpe’s bustling restaurants and tapas bars offer a range of dining options, from casual beachfront eateries to fine dining establishments. Food festivals, such as the annual Ruta de la Tapa, invite visitors to taste a variety of local dishes, paired with wine and live entertainment.