The “tapeo” tradition in Spain is integrated into the collective culture. It forms as a part of each and every Spaniard that enjoys the delicacies of gastronomy as well as having drinks on one of the many terraces that line the streets in the summer. Every day more restaurants grow exponentially in offering culture at the hour of tapas. It is for that reason that such a large variety of local Valencia eateries exist: to enjoy the cultural and gastronomic exposition.
Depending on the clients’ preferences, there are local restaurants that offer presentations that are out of the ordinary with an exquisite culinary experience. For art lovers, in Bombas Gens, they can find a large selection of modern and classic art expositions. The local restaurant, which was previously a factory of hydraulic machinery, counts on their industrial yet renovated aesthetic. In the remodel, they discovered a refuge, which also formed part of the gallery. What better way to enjoy this environment than good food? In this space, you will find Recard Camarena’s gastronomic space.
In Ricard Camarena Restaurant, you can find Mediterranean food in a unique environment, and decorated in a tidy culinary manner. One of their star plates is the flamed eggplant with a Dutch sauce, feta, pinions, and parsley, or the Galician cow Roastbeed with grilled peppers and shallot onion oil.
If you enjoy art, but in a different expression, and you also have a strong pallet, you must go to Convent Carmen. It is an open space, with different rooms and food trucks that always have something different to offer: from music performances, like dance or exposition art. The terrace area, broad and modern, is perfect for the summer. What can you find in Convent Carmen? Fish, tapas, even braised meat. Of these tapas, the Mediterranean mussels stand out along with the bravas and the croquettes -which can be made with cod, chicken or ham-, and are traditional. What better way to enjoy a concert?
If you like food trucks, there is another place in Valencia with a unique cultural selection. In La Fábrica de Hielo, next to the beach, you can enjoy many performances, literature, even jams, exhibits and dance. In La Regional, inside La Fábrica de Hielo, you will find a large selection of tapas to share, bocadillos in focaccia bread, or the already known burgers made from Galician veal. The veggie option comes with a vegetable vase and legumes from the market.
If what you like most is the shows, you cannot go to Valencia without going to Radio City. The local myth is that it is one of the busiest streets in Carmen, offering quality as well as a variety of performances. Not only is it a pub, but it is also a place that is true to Valencian culture and offers their clients flamenco, jazz, funky; even art exhibits, theatrical performances, and live music. It is true that the culinary experience is not the most extensive but it has a grand variety of cocktails to start every show.
Text: Alicia Alegre
Pictures: Laura Torres