Whether you're looking for a cosy, casual tapas bar or a complete upscale restaurant experience, these eateries will deliver pure Spanish gastronomy cooked fresh with local ingredients and artisan techniques handed down from generation to generation.

From the money-saving Menú del día, mouthwatering tapas, and sharing platters, to Spanish rice dishes, paellas, and exotic Valencian broths and stews – you'll find it all right here in Orihuela Costa.

Here's our list of all the Spanish restaurants and tapas bars in Orihuela Costa for the summer season, recommended by other members of our community. A world of culinary delights awaits you, and you have to try them all!

Restaurante La Mirada, La Zenia

An unparalleled location with spectacular views across Cala Bosque beach. An extensive selection of authentic tapas and an international menu offering traditional Spanish specialities and international dishes. Open every day.

A large terrace on the beach itself overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. The venue offers an Olympic-size swimming pool, sunbeds for hire, and a beach bar during the summer months. Lift access to all levels for persons with limited mobility.

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Restaurante Rianxeira, Cabo Roig

More than 30 authentic Spanish tapas dishes to sample with Menú del día options and an a la carte menu. Fish, meat, paellas, and pizzas with a dedicated children's menu. Cosy outside terrace and open six days a week for lunch and dinner.

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Restaurante Los Cucalos, Los Dolses

Specialising in authentic Spanish rice dishes, prepared meat, fresh fish and seafood. One of the largest Spanish restaurants in Orihuela Costa with a dedicated playground for children and plentiful parking. An excellent local reputation.

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Restaurante Casa Adolfo, Cabo Roig

One of the most established family-owned Spanish tapas restaurants, located in La Regia since 1967. Authentic tapas with a menu of fresh food that changes daily. Open Monday to Saturday for coffee, breakfast, and lunch from 08:00 until 17:00.

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Delpuerto Chiringuito, Dehesa de Campoamor

A traditional beachfront restaurant with commanding views over Barranco Rubio beach. An excellent selection of mouthwatering Spanish tapas, and Menú del día or a la carte menus with fresh ingredients. Open year-round with seasonal opening hours.

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Restaurante Doña Isabel, San Miguel de Salinas

An unassuming facade hides a Spanish restaurant that punches above its weight. Open for lunch and dinner with Menú del Día and Menú del Noche options available, offering great value. Traditional Spanish dishes are also available a la carte.

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El Pony Restaurante, Campoamor

Often overlooked, this small but upscale restaurant serves the finest Spanish cuisine. Tapas, salads, and Valencian rice dishes, with a fixed price Menú del Día at lunch and a sharing menu for dinner. Check out the menu on their website.

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Restaurante La Bahia, Cabo Roig

A genuinely idyllic location for this authentic tapas bar and restaurant overlooking the magnificent Cala La Caleta beach in Cabo Roig. Often featured in the UK TV show “A Place in The Sun”, the venue's terrace is located immediately at the water's edge.

Visitors can choose from a menu of small tapas (Pinchos) and light bites from the bar, or a full a la carte menu of Spanish rice, meat and fish dishes in the restaurant. Menus are available in English, Spanish, Russian and French.

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Resto Bar Ili's, Los Altos

Super-authentic family restaurant with a spacious outside terrace. Menú del Día and tapas menu options with Spanish seasonal menu choices offered daily. Open 6 days a week (closed Sunday) for breakfast, lunch and dinner sittings. A hidden gem.

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La Cibeles Bar, Punta Prima

Highly recommended by members of the La Zenia community, La Cibeles Bar offers a variety of authentic tapas and main meals. Dining room or terrace for al fresco eating. Open every day from 10:00 for breakfast, lunch, and dinner services.

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Restaurante Los Angeles, Campoamor

A beautiful restaurant with an elevated terrace overlooking the marina and the Mediterranean Sea. The menu is unsurprisingly fish-focused, with an extensive range of seafood, lobster, octopus, and squid – an unparalleled dining experience.

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Mesón Rincón de Paco, San Miguel de Salinas

Often recommended by group members for the finest authentic Spanish tapas. Family-style restaurant with outdoor seating and a menu of traditional fish and meat dishes. Open for lunch and dinner service every day except Monday.

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Restaurante Nautilus, Punta Prima

It's not possible to get a dining experience closer to the sea. A Spanish restaurant built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea and the beach in Punta Prima. Formal dining room or wrap-around terrace, both just a few metres from the water's edge.

An extensive menu of authentic delicacies, meats and fish. International options include burgers and pizzas. A fully-stocked bar with an exceptional choice of wines, and a rear terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Open daily, read our review.

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Mesón El Prado, San Miguel de Salinas

A traditional Spanish restaurant tucked away down a side street. Stunning covered terrace area and a large dining room to enjoy the authentic menu of freshly cooked food. Menú del Día and Spanish stews with fish or meat a speciality of the house.

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Cafetería Violetas, Playa Flamenca

A cosy Spanish eatery close to Playa Flamenca beach. Authentic Valencian paella and rice dishes are a speciality. Outside terrace for an al fresco dining experience, open seasonally for Spanish breakfasts, lunch and dinner.

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La Barraca de Campoamor, Dehesa de Campoamor

Established since 1975, this traditional Spanish restaurant enjoys a beautiful location with idyllic Mediterranean Sea views. A la carte menu with meat, fish, and paella. Open daily for lunch and dinner service, closed in the winter.

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Restaurante Casa Manolo, La Zenia

A popular location close to Cala Bosque Beach in La Zenia. Pizzeria, paellas and authentic regional rice dishes, and speciality ice creams. Large outside terrace. Open every day from 08:30 until 23:00 (Tuesday to Sunday during the winter).

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Patio Andaluz, Punta Prima

Established in 1973, this authentic Spanish restaurant offers a traditional Spanish meat-focused menu with fish dishes and Valencian paellas. A seasonal venue with live music daily during the summer, and a spectacular Flamenco show three times a week.

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La Braseria, Dehesa de Campoamor

Located inside the La Fuente commercial centre, La Braseria offers a traditional Spanish menu of Biscayan-style fish and Iberian meats. Large outside terrace and covered terrace. Open seven days a week with dinner service only from 17:00.

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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.

Originally scheduled to take place from Wednesday 8th October, the organisers announced the cancellation of this initial date due to an inclement weather forecast, a day before the inauguration.

The festival brings together vintage food trucks, a DJ, live music from local performing artists, and family-friendly entertainment over the course of the weekend.

The classic specially adapted trucks will serve a selection of street food that embraces global flavours from around the world, including German hot dogs, French-style crepes, Belgian waffles, grilled Argentinian meats, Mexican specialities, and a selection of American, Spanish, and European burgers.

Torrevieja street food festival, a world of flavours

The festival kicks off at 18:00 on Friday 24th October, with the opening of the festival and a live outdoor concert by Seguridad Social at 21:30.

On Saturday, the fun starts earlier at 13:00, with local artists set to take to the stage during the day, and additional entertainment for children.

The Torrevieja street food festival continues on Sunday afternoon from 12:00 with performances from local musicians, live entertainment, and succulent street food delights throughout the day.

Particular musical highlights of the all-weekend festival include Queen tribute artists, Keeng, on Saturday afternoon from 14:30, and Rolling Stone tribute, Control Stone, taking to the stage live on Sunday afternoon from 13:00.

Live music and vintage food trucks in Torrevieja

Eight vintage food trucks will attend the event, with additional attractions including a vintage market area with fashion, art and design, and an outdoor dining terrace offering more than 100 tables.

The Torrevieja street food festival takes place at the Park of Nations in Torrevieja on Friday 24th October from 18:00, with entertainment scheduled for each day of the weekend and culminating on Sunday 26th October.

The Alacant Street Market Tour organises the festival, tickets are not required for this event, and entry is free. Rock and food? Come hungry! Follow this link for a Google Map with directions from your location.

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: Alacant Street Food Market

Now a firmly seated annual tradition celebrating its tenth 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-one 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 €22 to €50 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, Mar de Levante, and Restaurante La Cantina located on the seafront promenade.

Torrevieja Rice Week from Monday 4th March 2024

Diners can expect a full four-course dining experience for the price, with several appetisers, 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 4th March 2024 until Sunday 10th March. For more information about this event, a list of the participating restaurants, and menus, visit the official website here.

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

Tapas days are one of our closest coastal city's most successful innovations, allowing diners to sample beautifully presented Spanish fayre at prices that offer excellent value.

A total of 13 revered local restaurants are taking part in the special event, including specialised tapas bars such as Restaurante Catalina II and Las Columnas in the city centre – and our favourite beachfront restaurant, La Cantina, on the main promenade adjacent to the city's marina.

Unlike Torrevieja's bi-annual Tapas Route, the International Tapas Day will give locals and visitors just one day to sample the gastronomic delights on offer.

Each restaurant will produce two different types of signature tapas dishes: a traditional classic tapa and a gourmet tapa, each served with a small beer or soft drink for just 3,50€ per tapa.

Torrevieja's International Tapas Day 2023

The event provides an opportunity for local restaurants to showcase their culinary skills, usually resulting in some ornate and beautiful dishes, and the international nature of the event means that Asian and Mexican spices will influence some of the crafted offerings.

The gastronomic experience offers a fun and inexpensive way to spend an afternoon or evening touring the centre of Torrevieja and discovering many of the hidden delights of the city.

The City Council have provided a leaflet illustrating the participating restaurants and the special menu on offer from each venue, and diners can find a copy available from local tourist information offices throughout the city.

The event has been organised by City Hall in association with local businesses, and with support from the Costa Blanca tourist board.

The Torrevieja International Tapas Day takes place this coming Saturday 30th September 2023. Find more information from the official website.

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

Photo credit: LaZenia.com

Diners can enjoy a wide variety of authentic Spanish tapas during the latest iteration of the popular event, with 23 venues taking part. However, in a departure from previous editions, this year's springtime experience lasts for two weekends.

The event normally occurs twice yearly – once in the autumn and once at this time of year, but due to the ongoing global pandemic, last year's springtime event was cancelled. To compensate for the adjustment to the social calendar the latest event runs for two consecutive weekends – with this weekend representing the first chance for residents and international visitors to experience the gastronomic delicacies on offer.

One of the coastal city's most successful innovations and now in its sixth year, the Torrevieja Tapas Route offers people the ability to sample beautifully presented Spanish fayre at prices that offer excellent value.

For this spring, a selection of revered local restaurants are taking part in the event, including specialised tapas bars such as Tapería El Teatro, and Brasas y Tapas in the city centre; and our favourite beachfront restaurant, La Cantina, on the main promenade adjacent to the city’s port.

This year´s role-call of local establishments includes some big names on the south Costa Blanca restaurant scene, including city centre venues such as Restaurante Luz de Mar, Tapas Bar Catalina II, and Burger Hombre del Mar directly overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

“Nos Vamos de Tapas” in Torrevieja this spring weekend

For each venue, four different tapas will be available – presented to serve two people: “Home-style” (or “Author”) style tapas and traditional “Gourmet” tapas, with each plate of tapas served with two small beers, two glasses of wine, or two soft drink for just €10.00 per plate.

Typically, the tapa is accompanied by a small Spanish beer, with Cruzcampo, Mahou, Estrella, Ambar, Alhambra, and San Miguel well represented throughout the city.

Alternatively, the tapa can be enjoyed with a small glass of fine Spanish wine, and a selection of Rioja, Jumilla, and other Valencian label speciality wines will be available for tasting.

Due to public health restrictions in place within the Valencian Community, dishes are available from 12:00 until 18:00 and present an opportunity for local restaurants to showcase their culinary skills, resulting in some ornate and perfectly beautiful dishes.

The Torrevieja Tapas Route event offers a fun and inexpensive way to spend a lunchtime or late afternoon touring the centre of Torrevieja and discovering many of the hidden sights and delights within the city.

The local organisers in association with Torrevieja Gastronomica have provided a leaflet with a map showing the route, available for download here or from tourist information offices.

Torrevieja Tapas Route, sample traditional Spanish food by the Mediterranean Sea

The leaflet outlines the participating venues and provides further details regarding the menu offered by each restaurant on the different days over the forthcoming weekend.

The event has been organised by Torrevieja Gastronomica in association with local businesses and receives support from Torrevieja’s tourist board.

Usually held twice yearly in the spring and autumn, Torrevieja´s Tapas Route has quickly become a popular staple event that has been replicated across local communities throughout Spain, and has proven a success with both residents and tourists wherever it is held.

The spring 2021 Torrevieja Tapas Route takes place this weekend, Saturday 17th April and Sunday 18th April, and culminates next weekend from Thursday 22nd April until Sunday 25th April 2021. Visit the official website for more information and to see the full list of restaurants.

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

Photo credit: LaZenia.com

Diners can enjoy a wide variety of authentic Spanish tapas during the autumn iteration of the popular event, with 23 venues taking part. However, in a departure from previous editions, this year's autumn experience lasts for two weekends.

The event normally occurs twice yearly – once in the spring and once at this time of year, but due to the ongoing global pandemic, the springtime event was cancelled. To compensate for the adjustment to the social calendar the latest autumn event runs for two consecutive weekends – this weekend representing the last chance for residents and visitors to experience the gastronomic delicacies on offer.

One of the coastal city's most successful innovations and now in its fifth year, the Torrevieja Tapas Route event offers people the ability to sample beautifully presented Spanish fayre at prices that offer excellent value.

Torrevieja Tapas Route 2020: one of the most popular autumn events

For this autumn a selection of revered local restaurants are taking part in the event, including specialised tapas bars such as Brasas y Tapas, and Tapa y Caña in the city centre; and our favourite beachfront restaurant, La Cantina, on the main promenade adjacent to the city's port.

This year´s role-call of local establishments includes some big names on the south Costa Blanca restaurant scene, including city centre venues such as Restaurante Báhia, Namm & Gastronomic, and Restaurante Las Columnas directly overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

For each sitting, two different types of tapas will be available: a “Home-style” (or “Author”) tapa and a traditional “Gourmet” tapa, each served with a small beer or soft drink for just €2.50 per tapa respectively.

Typically, the tapa is accompanied by a small Spanish beer, with Cruzcampo, Mahou, Estrella, Ambar, Alhambra, and San Miguel well represented throughout the city.

Alternatively, the tapa can be enjoyed with a small glass of fine Spanish wine, and a selection of Rioja, Jumilla, and other Valencian label speciality wines will be available for tasting.

Dishes are available for lunchtimes (12:00 until 16:30) and for evening dinner (19:00 to 23:00) and present an opportunity for local restaurants to showcase their culinary skills, resulting in some ornate and perfectly beautiful dishes.

The Torrevieja Tapas Route event offers a fun and inexpensive way to spend an afternoon or evening, touring the centre of Torrevieja and discovering many of the hidden sights and delights within the city.

Torrevieja Tapas Route 2020: sample classic Spanish cuisine for just €2.50

The local organisers in association with Torrevieja Gastronomica have provided a leaflet with a map showing the route available from local tourist information offices.

The leaflet outlines the participating venues and provides further details regarding the menu offered by each restaurant on the different days over the forthcoming weekend.

The event has been organised by Torrevieja Gastronomica in association with local businesses and receives support from Torrevieja's tourist board.

Usually held twice yearly in the spring and autumn, Torrevieja´s Tapas Route has quickly become a popular staple event that has been replicated across local communities throughout Spain, and it is always a success with both residents and tourists wherever it is held.

The autumn 2020 Torrevieja Tapas Route finishes this weekend, Saturday 26th September and Sunday 27th September 2020, with participating venues across the city. Visit the official website for more information and to see the full list of restaurants.

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

But some of our beloved establishments are adapting to life under lockdown and providing first class takeaway food that we can all enjoy at home.

If you don't want to cook yourself and you're looking for freshly prepared, beautifully cooked food, check out our list of Orihuela Costa restaurants that offer a home delivery service.

Fresco Food, La Zenia

Fresco's takeaway food delivery menu consists of freshly prepared salads, lighter sandwiches, burgers, authentic kebabs and pitas, and create-your-own pizza options. A minimum order value of €12.00 applies, but with free delivery throughout the entire Orihuela Costa area.

The home delivery service operates from 18:00 to 22:30 Thursday to Saturday each week, with a longer service that covers lunchtime on Sundays. You can find their menu here, call 965 073 737 to place your order, or get in touch via their Facebook page.

Píccolino Ristorante Italiano Pizzeria, Cabo Roig

Píccolino is offering an extensive menu of salads, Italian pasta dishes, and what must be the largest selection of freshly cooked pizza in the Orihuela Costa region. Prices offer excellent value, with a basic Margarita pizza starting at just €6.50.

Home delivery to Torrevieja or our local area costs just €1.50 per order with kitchens open daily from 13:00 until 22:00. Call 603 137 223 or visit their Facebook page for more information.

Isabela's Italian, Lomas de Cabo Roig

Isabela´s menu offers a complete gamut of antipasti and speciality pasta, fish and meat dishes, and authentic Italian-style pizzas cooked to order. Local Orihuela Costa delivery is free in association with Costa Delivery with a minimum order of €20.00.

Orders can be placed online via the Costa Delivery website, or by WhatsApp on 685 243 440. Cash and card payments are accepted, and food can be delivered seven days a week from 17:00 until 22:00. Find their menu on Facebook here.

Local 48 Bar & Restaurant, Playa Flamenca

There´s no need to miss out on the full English breakfast while you´re isolated at home. Local 48 in Playa Flamenca is offering a free delivery service on their breakfast menu on Wednesdays and throughout the weekend from 10:00 until 13:00.

The venue offers a variety of freshly cooked breakfast treats including a Scottish breakfast, American breakfast, vegetarian breakfast, and a Spanish Bacon breakfast option with prices from just €3.75. Find the menu on their Facebook page or call 620 044 983 to place your order.

La Fuente Fish and Chips, Las Filipìnas

One of the area's most respected takeaway food shops located in La Fuente Commercial Centre, the popular chip-shop menu consists of fried fish dishes, pies, a variety of sausages, burgers, chips, and (of course) mushy peas and a host of additional extras.

Food is freshly cooked with prices for a standard cod and chips starting at €7.40 with cheaper fayre available from the menu. Local delivery takes place every day except Sunday from 17:00 and hungry diners can place an order by calling 635 425 102. Find their menu on Facebook here.

Rajhastan Indian Restaurant, Villamartin Plaza

Connoisseurs of spicy food alternatives might be tempted by the extensive menu offered by Rajhastan in the Plaza. The restaurant is offering free local delivery six days a week from 18:00 until 22:00 (excludes Sunday evenings).

Freshly prepared Biryani's, Karahi's, Vindaloo's, and other South Asian speciality dishes can be ordered alongside rice and vegetable options, with prices that offer very good value. Find the menu on their Facebook page, and call 965 321 799 or WhatsApp 632 122 219 to place your order.

Bar-Inn Takeaway Food, Cabo Roig

Bar-Inn has prepared a complete home delivery menu with a popular selection of burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas, including speciality calzone pizza takeaway options and create-your-own pizzas with the unusual option of a Kangaroo meat topping.

The restaurant is offering free local delivery for orders over €25.00 (€4.00 fee for smaller orders), and deliveries are made daily from 18:00 until 22:00. Find the menu on their Facebook page or call 711 006 693 to place an order.

Restaurante Los Cucalos, Los Dolses

Fancy a little taste of Spain in your own home? Los Cucalos restaurant can serve up a genuine fresh Spanish Paella and deliver it to your door in association with Costa Delivery, offering a selection of fifteen different mouthwatering paellas.

The restaurant provides free delivery from midday until 21:00 (every day except Monday), with a minimum order of paella for just two persons and prices from €10.50 per person. You can find the menu and order online, or call or WhatsApp your order to 685 243 440.

Che Restaurant, Villamartin Plaza

One of Villamartin Plaza's favourite local eateries, Che is offering a complete 3-course home dining experience with free local delivery for orders over €20. A range of tempting starters accompany pizzas, pasta dishes, and speciality meat dishes or salads, with a gourmet burger from just €8.00.

Deliveries take place daily from 18:00 until 22:00 and the complete takeaway food menu can be found on their Facebook page. Call 966 765 297 or WhatsApp 699 973 281 to place your order.

Balti Tower Indian Restaurant, Cabo Roig

Balti Tower is renowned locally for its authentic Indian cuisine, and its home delivery menu will be a welcome addition to residents' dining choices.

The restaurant is offering its complete menu of Tandoori dishes, flavourful curries, rice and naan, and with prices for a typical Chicken Madras starting at just €7.95, the menu offers super value. As a bonus, local delivery is free.

Unfortunately, Balti Tower hasn´t updated its Facebook page since February last year, but you can find their takeaway food menu in our Community Facebook group. Delivery can be made from 18:00 until 22:00 every evening except Sunday, and orders can be placed on 965 321 799 or via WhatsApp on 632 718 740.

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

Every venue that has made this list of our most recommended places to be during New Year's Eve offers something special, whether you're looking for spectacular views, a traditional Spanish venue, a thoroughly sophisticated restaurant, or a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

Read on, and find out what's going on over the New Year period, all the parties, all the fireworks, and don't forget the Spanish Twelve Grapes of Luck.

An Irish theme: Party at Paddys Point, La Zenia

One of the most established Irish Bar´s on the entire Iberian peninsula, Paddys Point is a much-loved local institution.

The venue celebrated 20 years of the finest Irish hospitality earlier this summer, and for New Years Eve, they're keeping things super simple.

No need to book, just turn up and enjoy seeing in 2020 in true Irish style, with their well-stocked bar and a menu that's proved popular year-round.

And from 22:00, local band “The Cages” take to the stage to rock in the new year. Find out more information from their Facebook page.

FACEBOOK | MAP | TRIPADVISOR

New Years Eve German-style at El Capitan, Punta Prima

El Capitan in Punta Prima is offering an authentic German-themed New Year's Eve party from 19:00 on 31st December.

The all-inclusive event includes live entertainment from Stefan of local La Zenia Siesta Radio fame, and live music and dancing with Danny Daniel and MiMi.

The renowned local restaurant will feature a free bar during the course of the evening, an unlimited cold and warm buffet, and a midnight snack to welcome in the new year.

El Capitan's New Year's Eve party costs €55 per person, with advanced ticket sales required for the night. Call +34 608 444 208 to enquire or book.

FACEBOOK | MAP | TRIPADVISOR

A Russian party at Ruzali Georgian Restaurant, La Zenia

Tucked away in the heart of La Zenia you might happen upon Restaurante Ruzali. One of the newer additions to the Orihuela Costa gastronomic scene, the eatery specialises in Russian influenced cuisine.

Ruzali is offering an exceptionally unique New Years Eve experience, hosting a Russian-themed dinner party complete with music and a full table service menu.

The restaurant offers an extensive menu of soups, cold appetisers, and meat and fish dishes, with a wide variety of regional Georgian dishes sure to excite any palate.

Starting from 21:00, the event is free to attend but the venue insists on table reservations prior to the evening. Call Ruzali on +34 658 319 680 to enquire, or book via Facebook.

FACEBOOK | MAP | TRIPADVISOR

Sophisticated and elegant, María Limón, Lomas de Cabo Roig

María Limón only opened earlier this year, but the first of their New Year's Eve menus is dressed to impress.

The comprehensive four-course signature menu is both imaginative and well-crafted, with luxurious ingredients such as red tuna, turbot, sirloin steak, and Iberian ham.

The evening includes a welcome glass of Spanish Cava, the traditional Twelve Grapes of Luck, live music, and fireworks at midnight.

The fixed-price menu costs €98 per person (including a free bar), and bookings can be made via Facebook or by calling +34 744 622 438.

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Spend New Years Eve at Numbar 5, Cabo Roig

One of the highlights of the Cabo Roig Strip, Numbar 5 have earned a reputation for finely crafted food and wine, garnering a significant following both locally and online.

The restaurant has developed an exquisite bespoke menu for the ultimate New Year's Eve, with diners treated to a four-course gastronomic experience that starts with a glass of Champagne upon arrival.

The evening meal costs €80 per person, but with an accomplished culinary team in the kitchen and premium ingredients such as Canadian Lobster Thermidor, Russian King Crab, and Angus fillet steak, the venue promises something quite special.

For bookings call +34 635 373 679 or visit their Facebook page for more information about forthcoming events and dates.

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Welcoming 2020 with Chameleon Gastrobar, Lomas de Cabo Roig

Another stylish find in Lomas de Cabo Roig, Chameleon Gastrobar is well worth the cost of a short taxi ride next week.

The special New Years Eve menu offers a selection of starters, a sorbet of gin and tonic palate cleanser before service of the main course, a choice of pork shank or duck breast, followed by Grandma's Cake dessert.

The three-course menu costs €50 per person including one drink, a welcome glass of Cava, and an assortment of traditional Spanish sweets to round off the evening.

Advance bookings can be made by calling +34 675 252 939 or getting in touch with Chameleon Gastrobar on Facebook.

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The ultimate experience? Restaurante Nautilus, Punta Prima

Restaurante Nautilus has been providing the ultimate beachfront venue for New Year´s Eve celebrations for more than four decades.

Their opulent Spanish “Nochevieja” menu is a naturally elaborate and exclusive affair, with a selection of exotic plates to choose from and seemingly limitless courses.

The price is €130 per person, which considering the beautiful location and the quality of food on offer, does represent good value for money. The experience includes a free bar all evening, live music and entertainment, and the traditional Cava and Grapes of Luck at midnight.

Reservations must be paid in full and can be made by phone on +34 966 798 354 or via email at reservas@restaurantenautilus.es.

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A Spanish New Years Eve at Alejandros Bar Restaurante, La Zenia

Local favourites Alejandros celebrated their 20th anniversary earlier this year. The venue has become a regular haunt for both locals and returning visitors over the decades, a testament to the quality of the food.

For New Years Eve, Alejandros are offering an extensive six-course menu and diners are met with a glass of Spanish Cava on arrival, followed by two starters, and a sorbet palate cleanser crafted from tangerines and Freixenet Ice Cava.

Main course choices include a rack of Iberico lamb, a duet of venison and wild boar, or gilt-head bream in a béarnaise sauce, with each dish accompanied by some delicious accoutrements such as Duchess potatoes and wild mushroom ragout.

The menu costs €75 per person (including a fireworks display and the essential Twelve Grapes of Luck), and reservations can be made via Alejandro´s Facebook page, or by calling +34 966 760 623.

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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

Every restaurant that has made this list of our most recommended places to eat over the Christmas period offers something special, whether you're looking for spectacular views, a traditional Spanish venue, a thoroughly international flavour, or a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

Christmas inspiration: The Orange Tree, Cabo Roig

The popular casual dining venue, The Orange Tree, is offering one of the more traditional Christmas menus, with a 4-course set menu for just €16 per person.

The main course features a selection of roast meats including turkey, chicken, and beef, served with sage and onion stuffing, seasonal vegetables, and a Yorkshire pudding.

Admirably, vegetarian and pescatarian options are available, and gluten-free gravy is provided on request. A choice of four starters and four delicious desserts rounds out their festive offering.

The Orange Tree Christmas menu is available for advanced bookings only with a €10 deposit from 1st to 23rd December. Call +34 965 323 235 to enquire or book.

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Festive and classy: María Limón, Lomas de Cabo Roig

María Limón only opened earlier this year, but the first of their Christmas menus is dressed to impress.

The signature menu is both imaginative and well-crafted, with a choice of three starters including prawn lollipops, duck mousse with a red berry preserve, and an Iberian cold cut platter.

Lamb, hake, and a charcoal-grilled steak provide a choice of hearty main courses, and two desserts round out the festive menu.

The fixed-price menu costs €30 per person, and bookings can be made via Facebook or by calling +34 744 622 438.

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Christmas menus: Hi-Life Resto Bar, La Zenia

Already highly regarded for their family-sized Sunday carvery, Hi-Life Resto Bar has an entire festive calendar planned for this season.

For those too impatient for Christmas Day itself, the venue is hosting a pre-Christmas party on Christmas Eve replete with a four-course dinner for €25.

The main event takes place on Christmas Day from 6:00 pm and the bar is offering a three-course festive meal for just €18. Quite exceptional value.

For bookings call +34 693 916 747 or visit their Facebook page for more information about forthcoming events and dates.

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Festive fun: The Emerald Isle, La Florida

One of the Orihuela Costa's most popular casual dining venues, it should be no surprise to learn that The Emerald Isle is already fully booked for Christmas Day.

Nonetheless, they're offering a festive menu daily from now until 20th December, centred around a traditional British roast dinner replete with Yorkshire pudding and offering a choice of roasted meats.

A two-course main and dessert costs €12 with a three-course option available for €15. However, the venue requires a booking of at least 10 people limiting availability exclusively to organised events or larger family and friend groups.

Advance bookings can be made by calling +34 965 327 138 or speaking with The Emerald Isle on Facebook about their Christmas menus.

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Christmas at the beach, The Nautilus, Punta Prima

The Nautilus has been providing the ultimate beachfront venue for festive partygoers for more than four decades.

Their opulent Christmas Day menu is a naturally elaborate and exclusive four-course affair with a selection of delicious and exotic plates to choose from.

The price is €55 per person which considering the beautiful location, and the quality of food on offer, does offer remarkable value for money – especially considering the menu includes the price of all water, wine, beer and Cava ordered at the table.

Reservations must be paid in full and can be made by phone on +34 966 798 354 or via email at reservas@restaurantenautilus.es.

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A Spanish theme: Alejandros Bar Restaurante, La Zenia

Local favourites Alejandros celebrated their 20th anniversary earlier this year. The venue has become a regular haunt for both locals and returning visitors over the decades, testament to the quality of the food.

For the Christmas season, Alejandros are offering a simple three-course menu that showcases their gastronomic skills.

To begin the experience, diners can choose the cream of leek soup or a Goats cheese salad on a bed of lambs lettuce. Naturally, the main dish includes a roast turkey option, a venison fillet, or salmon served with green asparagus. A classic Tiramisu rounds off the festive meal.

The menu costs €29.90 per person, and reservations can be made via Alejandro´s Facebook page, or by calling +34 966 760 623.

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Christmas menus at the Sunrise Restaurant, Playa Flamenca

It's no secret that the Sunrise is one of our personal favourite dining venues on the Orihuela Costa, so we were genuinely looking forward to reading this year´s Christmas menus.

And it was well worth the wait, as the venue is offering a no-holds-barred five-course menu for Christmas Day itself – replete with live music.

At €58 per person it certainly isn't the cheapest option around this year, but with an established reputation for first class table service, and a kitchen team that consistently delivers high-quality food, we predict that tables will be booking up pretty fast.

It's worth mentioning that the price also includes soft drinks, beer, red and white house wines, Spanish Cava, and water at the table. Call +34 965 326 814 or find them on Facebook.

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Viva Morgans Music Bar and Diner, Lago Jardin II

A little tucked away, you'll find Viva Morgans at the Via Park 5 commercial centre and this little gem is certainly worth tracking down.

The venue is offering one of the most comprehensive Christmas menus, and it's certainly worth considering if you are thinking about where to book that special festive meal over the Christmas period.

Viva Morgans Christmas Day offering provides complimentary Bucks Fizz on arrival, followed by a hot and cold self-service buffet. There´s a wide variety of courses to choose from, including desserts, plus live entertainment and music in the evening.

The party starts at 15:00 and the event costs €25 per person. You can make an enquiry via their Facebook page, or call +34 629 622 534 to make your booking.

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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

Diners can enjoy a wide variety of authentic Spanish tapas during the autumn iteration of the popular event, with 36 venues taking part. However, in a departure from previous editions, this year's autumn experience lasts just a single weekend.

One of the coastal cities' most successful innovations and now in its fourth year, the twice-yearly Torrevieja Tapas Route event offers people the ability to sample beautifully presented Spanish fayre at prices that offer excellent value.

For this autumn a selection of revered local restaurants are taking part in the event, including specialised tapas bars such as Restaurante Bahía, and Namm & Gastronomic in the city centre; and our favourite beachfront restaurant, La Cantina, on the main promenade adjacent to the city's port.

For each sitting, two different types of tapas will be available: a “Home-style” tapa and a “Gourmet” tapa, each served with a small beer or soft drink for just €2.50 per tapa respectively.

Typically, the tapa is accompanied by a small Spanish beer, with Cruzcampo, Mahou, Estrella, Ambar, Alhambra, and San Miguel well represented throughout the city.

Alternatively, the tapa can be enjoyed with a small glass of fine Spanish wine, and a selection of Rioja, Jumilla, and other Valencian label speciality wines will be available for tasting.

Dishes are available for lunchtime (12:00 until 16:30) and for evening dinner (19:30 to 23:00) and present an opportunity for local restaurants to showcase their culinary skills, resulting in some ornate and perfectly beautiful dishes.

The Torrevieja Tapas Route event offers a fun and inexpensive way to spend an afternoon or evening, touring the centre of Torrevieja and discovering many of the hidden sights and delights within the city.

Torrevieja Tapas Route 2019: sample classic Spanish cuisine for just €2.50

The local Town Hall has provided a leaflet with a map showing the route, available for download or from tourist information offices.

The leaflet allows diners to vote for their favourite tapa, and upon the collection of ten official participating restaurant stamps (one stamp per tapa), the leaflet can be entered into a prize draw for a number of great prizes including a smartphone.

The event has been organised by City Hall in association with local businesses and receives support from Torrevieja's tourist board.

Held twice yearly in the spring and autumn, it has quickly become a popular staple event that has been replicated across local communities throughout Spain, and it is always a success with both residents and tourists wherever it is held.

The autumn 2019 Torrevieja Tapas Route takes place later this week from Thursday 21st November and runs until Sunday 24th November 2019, with participating venues across the city. Visit the official website for more information and to see the full list of restaurants.

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

Photo credit: LaZenia.com