Paella Valenciana: top 9 places with a local delicacy of Valencia

Paella Valenciana: top 9 places with a local delicacy of Valencia

June 11, 2025

Valencia, Spain's third largest city, is not only home to the impressive Ciutat de les Arts and les Ciències, but also the cradle of one of Spain's most famous dishes - paella. This aromatic dish of rice, saffron and a variety of toppings, originally prepared by farmers and laborers in the fields around Lake Albufera, has become a symbol of the region and a must-visit for any culinary traveler. In our guide, we'll highlight 9 of the best restaurants in Valencia where you can enjoy authentic paella valenciana and other variations of the dish. From traditional establishments with a long history to modern restaurants with sea views, each of these places offers a unique culinary experience that will allow you to discover the true taste of Valencia. Get ready for a culinary feast that will satisfy even the most discerning palates and introduce you to the world of Spanish flavors and hospitality.

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Tradition and flavor in the heart of Valencia

Our culinary journey begins with three iconic restaurants that have been cultivating the tradition of preparing authentic paella valenciana for years.

Casa Carmela, located at C/ d'Isabel de Villena, 155, is a place with a rich history dating back to 1922. The restaurant is famous for its paella prepared over a traditional orange wood fire, which gives it a unique flavor. Although the prices here are higher (PRICE_LEVEL_EXPENSIVE), the quality of the ingredients and attention to traditional preparation methods justify the price. Guests especially praise the seafood paella, although some point out the long waiting time, especially on weekends. So it's worth considering booking in advance.

Another stop is Puerta del Mar, located in the heart of the old town on Carrer dels Transits, 4. This restaurant, which offers reasonably priced dishes (PRICE_LEVEL_MODERATE), has won praise from tourists and locals alike. Guests praise not only the paella, but also the wide selection of appetizers, including cod croquettes and fresh calamari. The restaurant also offers a menu del dia, making it an attractive option for those looking for good value for money.

A third place worth noting is Navarro, located at C/ de l'Arquebisbe Mayoral, 5. This restaurant, also in the middle price range, stands out for its high quality paella and professional service. Guests especially recommend the paella valenciana, which must be ordered a day in advance. Navarro enjoys excellent reviews, with many guests emphasizing that it is one of the best places in the city to try this traditional dish.

Each of these restaurants offers a slightly different experience: Casa Carmela is all about luxury and tradition, Puerta del Mar attracts good value for money, and Navarro stands out for its consistently high quality. What all three places have in common, however, is a passion for preparing authentic paella and a commitment to guest satisfaction. It is worth noting that advance reservations are recommended at each of these restaurants, especially during the tourist season or on weekends, to avoid the disappointment of not having seats available.

Paella with sea views and modern interpretations

Continuing our culinary journey through Valencia, we move closer to the coast, where restaurants offering not only delicious paella, but also unique views and atmosphere await.

El Trompo Restaurante - Paella House -, located on Paseo Maritimo de la Malvarrosa, is the ideal place for those who want to combine paella tasting with admiring the seascape. The restaurant offers affordable dishes (PRICE_LEVEL_MODERATE) and enjoys high guest ratings (4.5/5). Particularly recommended is the seafood paella, which guests say is 'delicious'. As an added bonus, guests can dine overlooking the beach and sea, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

Moving deeper into the city, we find ourselves at Restaurante Levante Valencia on Av. de Manuel de Falla, 12. This place, also offering moderate prices, is famous not only for its paella, but also for other traditional dishes such as croquettes and octopus dishes. Guests praise the friendly atmosphere and professional service. Of note is their paella valenciana, which according to reviews is 'on 6!', although some guests note that it can be a bit salty.

The next stop is El Racó de la Paella, located on Carrer de Mossèn Rausell, 17. This restaurant, although located further from the tourist center, attracts guests with its high quality dishes and pleasant atmosphere. Guests especially praise the service, mentioning by name the waiters who take care of the unique dining experience. El Racó de la Paella offers not only traditional paella, but also other dishes with rice, allowing guests to experiment with different flavors.

When comparing these three places, it's worth noting their unique features. El Trompo Restaurante is distinguished by its location by the sea, which is an ideal option for tourists who want to combine a meal with relaxation on the beach. Restaurante Levante Valencia offers a wider selection of traditional Valencian cuisine, which may appeal to those looking to try more than just paella. El Racó de la Paella, on the other hand, boasts a more intimate atmosphere and personalized service.

All three restaurants offer dishes in a similar price range, making them accessible to a wide range of guests. It's worth noting, however, that El Trompo Restaurante may have slightly higher prices due to its attractive location. In terms of availability, El Racó de la Paella may require advance reservations, especially on weekends, due to fewer tables.

Regardless of your choice, each of these restaurants offers a unique dining experience, combining traditional paella flavors with a unique atmosphere and professional service. They are the ideal places for those who want to discover the true taste of Valencia in a variety of contexts.

Culinary gems for the discerning gourmet

At the end of our culinary journey in Valencia, we present three exceptional restaurants that will satisfy even the most discerning gourmets looking not only for excellent paella, but also for a unique culinary experience.

We begin with La Pepica, a legendary restaurant located on Passeig de Neptú, 6. This is a place with a rich history that has hosted many famous personalities, including Ernest Hemingway. La Pepica offers dishes in the medium price range (PRICE_LEVEL_MODERATE) and has a reputation for its paella, especially the 'pepica paella' variant. The restaurant is also notable for its location overlooking the beach, which adds to the charm of the meal. However, it's worth keeping in mind that due to its popularity, it can get crowded and wait times for dishes can be longer.

Another place worth noting is GOYA GALLERY RESTAURANT at Carrer de Borriana, 3. This restaurant, also offering moderate prices, combines traditional cuisine with a modern approach. Guests praise not only the paella, but also other dishes such as liquid chicken croquettes and cuttlefish in truffle sauce. GOYA GALLERY RESTAURANT is distinguished by its elegant decor and professional service, making it an ideal place for a special dinner.

The last stop is El Paeller, located at C/ dels Cavallers, 5. This restaurant, although less well-known than the previous ones, wins praise from guests for its great value for money. El Paeller offers not only the traditional paella valenciana, but also other variations of this dish. Guests also praise other appetizers, such as patatas bravas. The restaurant attracts attention with its authentic Spanish atmosphere.

When comparing the three places, it is worth noting their unique features. La Pepica stands out for its history and location by the sea, which may appeal to tourists looking for a classic experience. GOYA GALLERY RESTAURANT offers a more refined approach to Valencian cuisine, ideal for those seeking culinary innovation. El Paeller, on the other hand, may be a good choice for those who appreciate authenticity and affordable prices.

As for availability, La Pepica, due to its popularity, may require advance reservations, especially during high season. GOYA GALLERY RESTAURANT, although not as well-known as La Pepica, can also be crowded on weekends, so reservations are recommended. El Paeller seems to be more accessible for spontaneous visits.

It is worth noting that all three restaurants offer gluten-free dishes, which is important for those with gluten intolerance. GOYA GALLERY RESTAURANT particularly stands out in this regard, offering a wide selection of gluten-free options.

All in all, each of these restaurants offers a unique dining experience. La Pepica is classic and historic, GOYA GALLERY RESTAURANT is modern and sophisticated, and El Paeller is authentic and approachable. Regardless of your choice, any of these places will allow you to discover the true taste of Valencia and taste one of the most distinctive dishes of Spanish cuisine - paella.

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