The local cuisine of San Juan de Alicante is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Rice dishes, especially paella, are central to the food culture, often featuring seafood like prawns, clams, and mussels, which are abundant in the region. The town also specializes in traditional Valencian dishes such as arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish stock) and fideuà (a noodle-based dish similar to paella).
Local markets offer fresh produce, including fruits and vegetables from the surrounding countryside. Tapas bars are common, where visitors can sample a wide variety of small dishes, such as patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and calamares.
The town has a range of excellent restaurants, from casual beachfront eateries to fine dining establishments that highlight the region’s culinary traditions. Many of these restaurants participate in annual food festivals that celebrate local products and chefs, making it an exciting destination for food lovers.