Where To Eat The Best Paella In Valencia: A Guide To Getting It Right of Hotel Conqueridor in Valencia. Official Website.
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Where to eat the best paella in Valencia: a guide to getting it right
Valencian paella has its rules. The first: it’s eaten at lunchtime, not in the evening. The second: there are just a few specific ingredients. The third: the best places aren’t always the most obvious ones. If you want to eat a proper paella in Valencia, here’s what you need to know.
WHAT GOES INTO A VALENCIAN PAELLA
The traditional recipe includes Albufera rice, chicken, rabbit, bajoqueta (flat green beans), garrofó (a variety of broad bean), tomato, paprika, saffron, olive oil and salt. No seafood. No chorizo. No peas. If you see those on the menu, it’s not Valencian paella: it’s something else, which may well be tasty, but it’s not the same.
AREAS WHERE YOU CAN EAT WELL
El Palmar, in the Albufera Natural Park, about 12 kilometres from the city centre, is the place to go. The village’s restaurants have been making paella with local rice for decades, and you can really tell the difference. It’s well worth the trip for a half-day excursion.
In Valencia city, the Las Arenas area and Malvarrosa beach have restaurants with terraces serving quality paella. They’re geared towards tourists but maintain a high standard.
In the city centre, there are decent options that use good ingredients and the right technique. Ask at your hotel: the locals know which ones are really worth a visit.
SIGNS OF A GOOD PAELLA
The ‘socarrat’ – that layer of lightly toasted rice at the bottom of the paella pan – is a good sign. The rice should be loose, not soupy. If the service is quick (less than 10 minutes), be wary: paella takes between 20 and 30 minutes to cook properly. And if the menu lists 40 types of paella, that’s also a bad sign.
WHEN AND HOW TO ORDER IT
Paella is ordered for a minimum of two people. Many restaurants only serve it at lunchtime. Booking in advance is a good idea, especially at the weekend. If you’re on your own, order a fideuà or baked rice, which are usually available as single portions.
Here at the Hotel Conqueridor, we can recommend trusted restaurants where you can enjoy paella without being disappointed. We’re in the centre of Valencia and know the city well. Book your stay and ask us for advice when you arrive.