Gijón, a charming coastal city in the Principality of Asturias, Spain, is a culinary haven that offers a wide range of delicious and authentic Asturian cuisine. From traditional dishes to modern twists, Gijón’s food scene is a reflection of its rich history and cultural heritage. As a visitor, it can be overwhelming to navigate the city’s many restaurants, cafes, and bars, which is why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you discover the best places to eat in Gijón.
Traditional Asturian Cuisine
Asturian cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting dishes, often made with local ingredients such as seafood, meat, and vegetables. Here are some traditional Asturian dishes you should try when visiting Gijón:
Seafood
- Fogaza: A traditional Asturian dish made with cod, potatoes, and vegetables.
- Arroz con Mariscos: A seafood paella made with rice, seafood, and spices.
- Caldereta de Mariscos: A hearty seafood stew made with a variety of seafood, vegetables, and spices.
Meat and Vegetables
- Fabada Asturiana: A rich bean stew made with chorizo, morcilla, and panceta.
- Chopitos: Fried baby squid, often served as a snack or appetizer.
- Patatas Arrugadas: Wrinkled potatoes cooked in salt and olive oil, often served with garlic and paprika.
Modern Gijón Cuisine
Gijón’s food scene is not just about traditional Asturian cuisine, but also about modern and innovative cooking. Here are some modern restaurants and cafes you should visit:
Restaurants
- El Puerto: A modern restaurant located in the heart of Gijón, serving creative and seasonal dishes.
- La Tasquita de Enol: A cozy and intimate restaurant serving traditional Asturian dishes with a modern twist.
- Restaurante El Rincón de la Abuela: A family-run restaurant serving homemade dishes and traditional Asturian cuisine.
Cafes
- La Casa de la Tía: A charming cafe located in the historic center of Gijón, serving coffee, pastries, and light meals.
- Café La Estación: A cozy cafe located in the old train station, serving coffee, tea, and snacks.
- La Tetería: A tea room located in the historic center of Gijón, serving a wide range of teas and herbal infusions.
Food Markets
Gijón’s food markets are a great place to sample local produce, cheeses, and other specialties. Here are some food markets you should visit:
Mercado de Abastos
The Mercado de Abastos is a bustling food market located in the heart of Gijón. Here, you can find a wide range of local produce, cheeses, and meats. Be sure to try some of the fresh seafood and traditional Asturian dishes at the market’s many food stalls.
Mercado de San Juan
The Mercado de San Juan is a smaller, more specialty food market located in the historic center of Gijón. Here, you can find artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and other local specialties. Be sure to try some of the market’s famous Asturian cider and cheese. (See Also: Where to Eat in Nottingham City Centre? Top Picks Revealed)
Where to Eat in Gijón
Here are some general tips for finding the best places to eat in Gijón:
Ask Locals
One of the best ways to find the best places to eat in Gijón is to ask locals. Many locals are happy to recommend their favorite restaurants and cafes, and can provide valuable insights into the city’s food scene.
Try Local Specialties
When visiting Gijón, be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as seafood, meat, and vegetables. These dishes are often made with local ingredients and are a reflection of the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Explore the City
Gijón is a city that is best explored on foot. Take a stroll through the historic center and explore the many streets and alleys, which are lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops. This is a great way to discover new places to eat and drink, and to get a feel for the city’s vibrant food scene. (See Also: Where to Eat in Blue Ridge? Top Local Favorites)
Recap
In this guide, we’ve explored the best places to eat in Gijón, from traditional Asturian cuisine to modern and innovative cooking. We’ve also provided some general tips for finding the best places to eat in the city, including asking locals, trying local specialties, and exploring the city on foot. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Asturian meal or a modern twist on classic dishes, Gijón has something for everyone.
FAQs
What is the best way to find the best places to eat in Gijón?
One of the best ways to find the best places to eat in Gijón is to ask locals. Many locals are happy to recommend their favorite restaurants and cafes, and can provide valuable insights into the city’s food scene.
What are some traditional Asturian dishes I should try when visiting Gijón?
Some traditional Asturian dishes you should try when visiting Gijón include fogaza, arroz con mariscos, caldereta de mariscos, fabada asturiana, chopitos, and patatas arrugadas.
Are there any modern restaurants in Gijón that I should visit?
Yes, there are many modern restaurants in Gijón that are worth visiting. Some popular options include El Puerto, La Tasquita de Enol, and Restaurante El Rincón de la Abuela.
What are some food markets I should visit in Gijón?
Some food markets you should visit in Gijón include the Mercado de Abastos and the Mercado de San Juan. These markets offer a wide range of local produce, cheeses, and meats, and are a great place to sample some of the city’s famous cuisine. (See Also: Where to Eat in Perranporth? Coastal Delights)
Is it possible to find vegetarian and vegan options in Gijón?
Yes, it is possible to find vegetarian and vegan options in Gijón. Many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan options, and some even have separate menus for these dietary preferences. Be sure to ask your server about vegetarian and vegan options when dining out.