Santander, a charming coastal city in the autonomous community of Cantabria, Spain, is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty, Santander is a must-visit destination for foodies and travelers alike. The city’s culinary scene is a perfect blend of traditional Cantabrian cuisine, innovative fusion dishes, and fresh seafood, making it a paradise for those who love to eat.
As you wander through the city’s historic center, you’ll discover a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and bars serving up everything from hearty breakfasts to decadent desserts. But with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to eat in Santander. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the city’s culinary scene and discover the best places to eat in Santander.
The Best Traditional Cantabrian Restaurants
Cantabrian cuisine is known for its rich flavors, bold ingredients, and hearty portions. Here are some of the best traditional Cantabrian restaurants in Santander:
El Mesón del Canto
Located in the heart of the historic center, El Mesón del Canto is a cozy restaurant serving up traditional Cantabrian dishes with a modern twist. Try their famous cocido montañés, a hearty stew made with beef, pork, and vegetables, or their delicious arroz con bogavante, a seafood paella cooked to perfection.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Calle de la Paloma, 2 | 942 22 12 34 | Monday to Saturday: 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm, 8:30 pm – 11:30 pm; Sunday: 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm |
La Tasquita de Enfrente
This charming restaurant is tucked away in a quiet alley in the historic center. La Tasquita de Enfrente serves up traditional Cantabrian dishes with a focus on local ingredients and creative presentation. Try their famous rabo de toro, a slow-cooked beef brisket dish, or their delicious tortilla de patatas, a Spanish omelette made with potatoes and onions.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Calle de la Cruz, 12 | 942 22 11 11 | Monday to Saturday: 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm, 8:30 pm – 11:30 pm; Sunday: 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm |
The Best Seafood Restaurants
Santander is a coastal city, and its seafood is some of the freshest and best in the country. Here are some of the best seafood restaurants in Santander: (See Also: Where to Eat in Hue Vietnam? A Food Lover’s Paradise)
El Puerto de la Marina
Located in the heart of the marina, El Puerto de la Marina is a popular seafood restaurant serving up fresh catches of the day. Try their famous fideuà, a seafood paella made with noodles instead of rice, or their delicious arroz con langostinos, a seafood rice dish cooked with succulent langostinos.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Muelle de la Marina, 1 | 942 22 13 34 | Monday to Saturday: 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm, 8:30 pm – 11:30 pm; Sunday: 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm |
La Gamba
This cozy seafood restaurant is located in the historic center and serves up fresh seafood dishes with a focus on local ingredients. Try their famous gambas al ajillo, garlic shrimp cooked to perfection, or their delicious arroz con mejillones, a seafood rice dish cooked with mussels.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Calle de San Francisco, 10 | 942 22 14 44 | Monday to Saturday: 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm, 8:30 pm – 11:30 pm; Sunday: 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm |
The Best Bars and Cafes>
After a long day of exploring Santander, there’s nothing better than grabbing a drink or snack at one of the city’s many bars and cafes. Here are some of the best:
Café de la Estación
Located in the historic train station, Café de la Estación is a charming cafe serving up delicious coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick breakfast or snack before exploring the city.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Estación de Santander, 1 | 942 22 15 55 | Monday to Saturday: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm; Sunday: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm |
Bar El Puerto
Located in the heart of the marina, Bar El Puerto is a popular spot for a drink or snack. Try their famous tortilla de patatas, a Spanish omelette made with potatoes and onions, or their delicious croquetas, crispy fried balls filled with ham, fish, or chicken. (See Also: Where to Eat Black Pepper Crab in Singapore? Top Recommendations)
| Address | Phone Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Muelle de la Marina, 2 | 942 22 16 66 | Monday to Saturday: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, 8:00 pm – 12:00 am; Sunday: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm |
Other Recommendations
In addition to the restaurants and bars mentioned above, here are a few other recommendations to consider:
- El Rincón de la Abuela: This charming bakery is located in the historic center and serves up delicious pastries, cakes, and sandwiches.
- La Tasca de la Plaza: This cozy tapas bar is located in the historic center and serves up a variety of small plates, including tortilla de patatas, croquetas, and more.
- El Mercado de Abastos: This bustling market is located in the historic center and offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, and seafood. It’s a great place to pick up some snacks or ingredients for a picnic.
Recap
Santander is a food lover’s paradise, with a rich culinary scene that offers something for everyone. From traditional Cantabrian restaurants to seafood eateries and cozy bars and cafes, there’s no shortage of delicious options to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or a decadent dinner, Santander has something to satisfy your cravings. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well on your way to discovering the best places to eat in Santander.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to get around Santander?
A: Santander has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and trams. You can also walk or bike around the city, as many of the main attractions are within walking distance.
Q: What is the best time to visit Santander?
A: The best time to visit Santander is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the city is also beautiful during the fall and winter months, when the weather is cooler and the streets are less crowded.
Q: What are some of the best beaches in Santander?
A: Santander has several beautiful beaches, including La Magdalena, El Sardinero, and Langre. Each beach has its own unique character and attractions, so be sure to check them out during your visit. (See Also: Where to Eat in Cadaques? Top Hidden Gems)
Q: What are some of the best hiking trails in the Santander area?
A: The Cantabrian Mountains offer some of the most beautiful and challenging hiking trails in Spain. Be sure to check out the trails around Picos de Europa National Park, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Q: What are some of the best festivals and events in Santander?
A: Santander hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Santander Jazz Festival, the Cantabrian Wine Festival, and the Feria de Santander. Be sure to check out the city’s event calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.