Alicante, the star of Spanish gastronomy in 2025
A blend of innovation, tradition, and quality has earned it the title of Spain’s Capital of Gastronomy
The city of Alicante has been chosen 2025 Spanish Capital of Gastronomy, taking over from Oviedo, further cementing its status as a must-visit destination for lovers of Mediterranean cuisine. With a focus on exceptional local ingredients, culinary innovation, and the richness of its traditional recipes, Alicante is preparing for a year brimming with events, show cooking, and one-of-a-kind gastronomic experiences. It’s no surprise that Alicante was chosen. The city has kept alive a rich tradition of rice-based cooking, with more than 300 different dishes — from oven-baked rice and arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish stock) to tuna rice, creamy rice, or artichoke rice. Each dish combines fresh ingredients from both land and sea, perfectly capturing the true spirit of the Mediterranean diet. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of local restaurants, markets, and producers, showcasing Alicante’s culinary identity and its contribution to the local economy. To mark the occasion, Alicante has a lineup of activities planned to promote its gastronomy in Spain and abroad. Gastronomic routes, fairs selling local produce, and gatherings with top chefs are just some of the exciting initiatives in store.

From October 3rd to 6th, the city will host the seventh edition of Alicante Gastronómica 2025, a fair bringing together over 250 exhibitors and renowned Michelin-starred and Repsol sun-awarded chefs. Boasting more than 400 activities—from lectures and tastings to competitions and workshops—this event is making a name for itself as one of the country’s top gastronomic events. Alicante is not only famous for its gastronomy — it also shines for its strong tourism infrastructure, adding to its prestige. With nine kilometers of urban beaches, 8,000 hotel beds, and over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, it’s no wonder visitors are drawn to Alicante to enjoy its delicious cuisine and stunning natural beauty.