Tossa de Mar, a charming coastal town on the Costa Brava in Spain, is a haven for foodies and travelers alike. With its rich history, stunning beaches, and picturesque old town, Tossa de Mar is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors and culture of Spain. When it comes to dining, Tossa de Mar offers a diverse range of options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Catalan cuisine to international flavors, the town’s restaurants, cafes, and bars are sure to tantalize your taste buds. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Tossa de Mar, highlighting the best places to eat, drink, and indulge in the local culture.
Get ultimate traveler plannerThe Old Town: A Gastronomic Hub
The old town of Tossa de Mar is a maze of narrow streets, charming squares, and historic buildings, offering a unique dining experience. The town’s main street, Carrer Major, is lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars, each with its own unique charm and character. From traditional tapas bars to modern restaurants, the old town has something for everyone.
Tapas Bars
Tapas bars are a staple of Spanish cuisine, and Tossa de Mar is no exception. Some of the best tapas bars in the old town include:
- El Tapas: A cozy, family-run bar serving a wide range of tapas, from classic patatas bravas to more adventurous options like grilled octopus.
- La Tasca: A lively, modern tapas bar with a focus on local ingredients and creative flavor combinations.
- Bar El Puerto: A historic bar located in the heart of the old town, serving traditional tapas and drinks in a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
Restaurants
For a more substantial meal, the old town is home to a range of restaurants serving everything from traditional Catalan cuisine to international flavors. Some of the top recommendations include:
- El Racó d’en Cesc: A Michelin-starred restaurant serving innovative, locally-sourced dishes in a cozy, intimate setting.
- La Bodega: A family-run restaurant serving traditional Catalan cuisine, including dishes like escalivada and botifarra amb mongetes.
- El Mirador: A seafood restaurant with stunning views of the Mediterranean, serving fresh, locally-caught seafood dishes.
Beachside Eats
Tossa de Mar’s beautiful beaches are the perfect spot to relax and refuel with a bite to eat. From beachside restaurants to snack bars and cafes, there’s something for every taste and budget. Here are some of the best places to eat near the beach:
Beachside Restaurants
For a more leisurely meal, try one of the beachside restaurants, such as: (See Also: Where to Eat in Barnes? Top Dining Spots)
- El Restaurante del Puerto: A beachside restaurant serving a range of Mediterranean dishes, including seafood and vegetarian options.
- La Playa: A beachside eatery serving fresh, locally-sourced dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and snacks.
Snack Bars and Cafes
For a quick bite or a refreshing drink, try one of the beachside snack bars or cafes, such as:
- La Barra: A beachside snack bar serving a range of snacks, including sandwiches, salads, and ice cream.
- El Café del Mar: A beachside cafe serving coffee, tea, and snacks, with stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Local Specialties
Tossa de Mar is famous for its local specialties, which showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage. Be sure to try some of the following dishes during your visit:
Catalan Cuisine
Catalan cuisine is known for its rich flavors, aromas, and textures, and Tossa de Mar is no exception. Some of the top local specialties include:
- Pa amb tomàquet: A classic Catalan dish made with bread, tomato, garlic, and olive oil.
- Escalivada: A hearty dish made with roasted vegetables, including eggplant, peppers, and onions.
- Botifarra amb mongetes: A traditional Catalan dish made with white beans, sausage, and vegetables.
Seafood
Tossa de Mar is a coastal town, and seafood is a big part of the local cuisine. Be sure to try some of the following seafood dishes:
- Fideuà: A seafood paella made with noodles instead of rice.
- Arroz con mariscos: A seafood paella made with rice and a variety of seafood, including shrimp, mussels, and squid.
- Calamares fritos: Fried squid rings served with a side of aioli or tartar sauce.
Drinks and Nightlife
Tossa de Mar has a lively nightlife scene, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Be sure to try some of the following drinks and activities:
Drinks
Tossa de Mar is famous for its local wines, including cava and xarello. Be sure to try some of the following drinks: (See Also: Where to Eat in Belgravia? Top Dining Spots)
- Cava: A sparkling wine made from macabeo, parellada, and xarello grapes.
- Xarello: A white wine made from the xarello grape.
- Beer: Tossa de Mar has a range of local beers, including Estrella and Mahou.
Live Music and Nightlife
Tossa de Mar has a lively nightlife scene, with a range of live music venues and clubs to choose from. Some of the top recommendations include:
- La Discoteca: A popular nightclub playing a range of music, from pop to rock to electronic.
- El Bar de la Playa: A beachside bar with live music and DJs during the summer months.
- El Café de la Música: A live music venue featuring a range of local and international acts.
Recap
Tossa de Mar is a foodie’s paradise, with a range of delicious restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from. From traditional Catalan cuisine to international flavors, the town has something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a quick snack, or a lively night out, Tossa de Mar has it all. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, including pa amb tomàquet, escalivada, and botifarra amb mongetes. And don’t forget to wash it all down with a glass of cava or xarello wine. With its rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Tossa de Mar is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors and culture of Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to get to Tossa de Mar?
A: The best way to get to Tossa de Mar is by flying into Girona-Costa Brava Airport, which is located about 30 minutes from the town. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Tossa de Mar.
Q: What is the best time to visit Tossa de Mar?
A: The best time to visit Tossa de Mar is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town is also popular during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
Q: What is the best way to get around Tossa de Mar?
A: The best way to get around Tossa de Mar is on foot, as the town is small and easily walkable. However, there are also buses and taxis available if you prefer not to walk. (See Also: Where to Eat in Ninenzaka? Culinary Delights)
Q: What are some of the best beaches in Tossa de Mar?
A: Some of the best beaches in Tossa de Mar include Platja Gran, Platja dels Pins, and Platja de la Mar Menuda. Each beach has its own unique character and charm, so be sure to explore them all during your visit.
Q: What are some of the best restaurants in Tossa de Mar?
A: Some of the best restaurants in Tossa de Mar include El Racó d’en Cesc, La Bodega, and El Mirador. Each restaurant offers a unique dining experience, from traditional Catalan cuisine to international flavors. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, including pa amb tomàquet, escalivada, and botifarra amb mongetes.
