The gastronomy of the Costa Brava and Pirineu de Girona region is very fantastic and worth a taste for travelers. Here you can read our insider guide for best eating out & dining opportunities in Costa Brava, including best restaurants, outdoor cafes, gastronomy and cuisine.
Gastronomy
When it comes to food, the Costa Brava region in Catalonia is a true culinary paradise. From fresh seafood to traditional Catalan dishes, there is no shortage of delicious cuisine to sample. Here are some of the best gastronomic experiences to be had in Costa Brava.
Seafood
With the Mediterranean Sea on its doorstep, it’s no surprise that seafood is a major part of the Costa Brava diet. From prawns to squid to lobster, you’ll find an array of delicious seafood dishes in the region’s restaurants. Make sure to try the traditional fish stew, known as suquet de peix, and the local anchovies, which are considered some of the best in the world.
Paella
A staple of Spanish cuisine, paella is a rice dish typically made with seafood, chicken, and vegetables. In Costa Brava, you’ll find variations of the dish made with local ingredients, such as lobster and langoustines. Make sure to pair it with a glass of local wine for the ultimate dining experience.
Catalan cuisine
Costa Brava is located in the Catalonia region of Spain, which has its own unique culinary traditions. Catalan cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple yet flavorful preparations. Some must-try dishes include escalivada (grilled vegetables), botifarra (sausage), and fideuà (a paella-like dish made with noodles instead of rice).
Wine
Catalonia is known for its wine, and Costa Brava is no exception. The region produces a variety of delicious wines, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds. Some of the most popular varieties include Cava, a sparkling wine, and Garnatxa, a red wine made from the Garnacha grape.
Local markets
For an authentic taste of Costa Brava cuisine, make sure to visit one of the region’s local markets. Here you’ll find a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and other local specialties, as well as an opportunity to interact with the friendly vendors.
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Top Dishes
Here are some of the top dishes you can try in Costa Brava:
- Suquet de Peix: This hearty fish stew is a traditional Catalan dish made with a variety of fish and shellfish, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and garlic.
- Arròs negre: Also known as black rice, this dish is made with squid ink, rice, seafood, and a variety of spices. It’s a popular dish in the coastal regions of Spain, including Costa Brava.
- Esqueixada: This cold salad-like dish is made with salt cod, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and olives. It’s a refreshing dish that’s perfect for a hot summer day.
- Escudella i carn d’olla: This hearty stew is a traditional Catalan dish made with a variety of meats, vegetables, and legumes.
- Coca de recapte: This savory pastry is made with a crispy crust and topped with a variety of vegetables, cured meats, and cheese.
- Fideuà: Similar to paella, this dish is made with short noodles instead of rice and a variety of seafood, vegetables, and spices.
- Crema Catalana: This dessert is similar to crème brûlée but with a Catalan twist. It’s made with a custard base and caramelized sugar on top.
- Turrón: This sweet treat is made with almonds and honey and is a popular dessert during the Christmas season.
Wine
Costa Brava is home to some excellent wine-producing regions, particularly the Empordà DO (Denominació d’Origen) which covers a large part of the region. The Empordà DO produces a range of red, white, and rosé wines, which are made with local grape varieties such as Garnacha, Carignan, and Tempranillo for reds, and Macabeo and Garnacha Blanca for whites.
One of the most famous wineries in the region is the Castillo de Perelada, which has a long history of wine production dating back to the 14th century. The winery produces a range of high-quality wines, including reds, whites, and cavas.
Another notable winery is the Masia Serra, which produces organic wines with a focus on sustainability and environmental conservation. The winery is located in the Alt Empordà region and offers tastings and tours of their vineyards.
In addition to the Empordà DO, there are other wine regions in the Costa Brava, such as the Alella DO and the Pla de Bages DO, which produce excellent wines using local grape varieties. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tours of vineyards, and even participate in grape harvesting during the harvest season.
