Elche’s cuisine reflects the flavors of the Mediterranean, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. One of the most famous dishes is “Arroz con Costra,” a rice dish baked with egg and a variety of meats. Seafood also features prominently, with dishes like “caldero” (a fish and rice stew) being popular along the coast.
For those with a sweet tooth, Elche offers a variety of delicious desserts. The “almojabana” is a sweet pastry with Moorish origins, made from flour, honey, and cheese. Another local treat is “dátiles,” dates that are harvested from the city’s vast palm groves.
Elche is home to numerous restaurants that offer both traditional and contemporary takes on Valencian cuisine. The city also boasts lively food markets, such as the Mercado Central, where visitors can sample local produce, cheeses, and wines.