A villa holiday in the Costa Blanca can’t be fully enjoyed until you’ve sampled the local specialties. The food and drink of Costa Blanca is a wonderful blend of traditional cuisine and modern influences. The region is full of fresh seafood, delicious desserts, and mouthwatering meats that make for a spectacular dining experience.
Casa Bernardi (Benissa)
For a delightful dining experience, this restaurant is sure to make you feel truly special. Led by the talented Ferdinando Bernardi, an Italian chef from Rimini, Casa Bernardi embodies the essence of "italianità"—genuine Italian hospitality. Nestled within a residential district, this charming restaurant offers contemporary Italian cuisine with a focus on meticulous preparation.
Expect perfectly cooked al dente pasta and flavourful Mediterranean dishes, like their standout squid ink lasagne and classic spaghetti carbonara. Sourcing ingredients locally from the Alicante region, the menu emphasises freshness and a strong connection with nearby suppliers. Diners can enjoy a concise à la carte option during lunchtime or choose from three thoughtfully curated tasting menus: Terra (vegetarian), Pasta Lovers, and A Modo Mio.
To top it off, the restaurant has a beautiful terrace with sea views, adding to the overall experience.
Komfort (Calpe)
A hidden gem away from Calpe’s typical tourist spots, Komfort offers a unique dining experience with a nod to the comfort food trend. Located within the stylish Cook Book Hotel, its modern bistro setting features large picture windows, a mix of table heights, and a variety of quirky lamps that give the space a distinct character.
The menu showcases a diverse selection of both traditional and international dishes, from mouth-watering pizzas and cocas (flatbreads) to grilled specialties and rice dishes. The steak tartare is a particular highlight, and for those looking for a more curated experience, a tasting menu is also on offer. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking something different, blending cozy charm with top-notch cuisine.
Le Dauphin (Moraira)
Arguably the best-located restaurant in Moraira, and perhaps on the entire Costa Blanca, with breathtaking views overlooking Portet Beach. In the summer, dining on the terrace is a treat, with a refreshing sea breeze and gorgeous scenery. Run by Swiss owners, the restaurant has earned a Michelin kitchen recommendation, a testament to the exceptional quality of its cuisine.
While it may seem pricey for Spain, at around 60-70 euros per person for the food, the combination of the prime location and superb dishes makes it quite reasonable. The wine selection is extensive, with bottles starting at 20-25 euros, but there’s no pressure to splurge, making it a relaxed and enjoyable experience.