Torrevieja Rice Week, city’s 8th annual gastronomic event starts today

SINCE IT'S INTRODUCTION IN 2013 Torrevieja Rice Week has become something of a local institution, with local culinary teams using the gastronomic event as a reason for going a little “off-piste” with their menu ideas.

Now a firmly seated annual tradition celebrating its eighth iteration this year, the citywide rice-themed affair is becoming more prominent within the Torrevieja social calendar and its popularity among locals compares to the much-loved bi-annual tapas route that takes place in the city each spring and autumn.

The popular staple ingredient is undoubtedly one of the most versatile available in any kitchen, and it should prove no surprise that given the Spanish location, restaurant chefs throughout Torrevieja are keen to showcase just what's possible with the humble grass seed.

Within Europe, only Italy produces more rice each year than Spain, and dishes like Valencian Paella, one of the most globally recognised dishes in Spanish cuisine, only serve to highlight the national importance of this adaptable ingredient.

For this year, no less than twenty-seven of Torrevieja's finest restaurants have lined up to produce special menus with a mouthwatering variety of rice-based dishes.

Torrevieja Rice Week is a much more extravagant affair than its tapas route sibling, with elegant and inventive dishes that use premium ingredients and advanced culinary skills. This is reflected in the price, with individual set menus costing from €20 to €35 per person depending on the venue.

Participating restaurants are offering a menu that changes daily, and famous names taking part this year include Las Columnas in the heart of the city, Restaurante Vela Beach in La Mata, and Hotel La Laguna Spa and Golf in Ciudad Quesada.

Torrevieja Rice Week from Monday 8th March 2020

Diners can expect a full three-course dining experience for the price, with a starter, a rice-based main course typical of the Valencian Community, a dessert, and a selection of fine local wines, beers, and soft drink options.

Torrevieja Rice Week takes place in the city from Monday 9th March 2020 until Sunday 15th March. For more information about this event and the participating restaurants visit the official website, or click here for the full menu (PDF download).

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: LaZenia.com