The Best Restaurants Locals Love in Javea
The historic town of Javea is located just outside of Alicante on the northeast tip of Costa Blanca. A market town with an active fishing port, Javea is known for its fresh produce, meats and, of course, daily catch of seafood. This abundance of fresh foods makes it a perfect destination for anyone looking for authentic Spanish dining when visiting the area and the fact that many of the restaurants, cafes and bars are in close proximity to the sparkling turquoise waters, white beaches and swaying palm trees just adds to the overall Mediterranean dining experience. As with so many vacation spots, when you’re looking for the ‘real deal’ in dining, it’s always smart to follow the locals! Here are just a few establishments where you’ll find the best in Spanish cuisine, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or full-on, five-star service.
Bon Amb
When a restaurant has received not one but two Michelin stars, you know that you’re in for the ultimate experience in fine dining. With its multi-course menus, extensive wine offerings and hefty price tags, Bon Amb is a strictly ‘special occasion’ establishment, although ‘special’ might be an understatement! Housed in an old farmhouse on Carretera Benitachell, Bon Amb is without doubt one of the best restaurants Javea has to offer with patrons describing the food as ‘sublime’ and ‘sensational’ and well worth the price. If your visit to Javea coincides with a celebration, or if you just want a slice of gourmet heaven, Bon Amb is an absolute dining destination.
Kimera
You’ll fee like part of the family after visiting Bar Cafeteria Kimera, just up from the waterfront on Avenida Lepanto. This family-run business is a definite local hang-out and has, according to many diners, the absolute best coffee in Javea! Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner Kimera is casual dining at its best with a homely atmosphere, well-priced selection of tapas, seafood – including squid, mussels and cuttlefish – made to order paella and staff that will make you feel like they’ve known you forever!
La Boheme
More affordable than Bon Amb, but still in the higher-price range, La Boheme is a definite favourite among locals and tourists alike. The charming, airy dining room overlooks the beach and the short but varied menu offers something for every taste, including an array of tapas, perfect for a light lunchtime bite. While still viewed as more of a special occasion restaurant, La Boheme serves up consistently tasty entrees delivered by friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Essencia Tapas
The narrow, twisting and turning streets of the old town area of Javea can often reveal hidden gems, one being the relatively new restaurant Essencia Tapas. Nestled on Calle San Bonaventura, Essencia Tapas may be a new addition to the Javea dining scene but it has quickly become a popular eatery for many locals…and those tourists who are lucky enough to stumble upon it! Diners can choose to either sit inside the cosy dining area or on the street-side patio where they can take in the quiet elegance of old Javea. With a wide selection of Spain’s ubiquitous dish, Essencia Tapas raises the bar by offering creative twists on the classics with visitors to the establishment coming back for the inventive food, welcoming atmosphere and friendly owners.
Scallops of Javea
Finally, if you simply want some tasty food that the whole family will love, Scallops of Javea is the best value in town. One of the more established restaurants in the town, Scallops Of Javea sits slightly inland from its former sea front location, giving diners the choice of a roomy dining room, airy wooden Pergloa or rose garden terrace. While there is nothing fancy about the restaurant, the wide range of dishes on the menu, including Spanish, European and British favourites, large portions and affordable prices make it a popular place year-round. From paella, steak and lamb to their ‘Feast of Fish’ selection, not to mention limited but good value wine choices, Scallops of Javea may not have any Michelin stars but you’ll leave fully sated having experienced the best in good, simple Spanish fare.
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