Michelin-Star Magic in Alicante: The Ultimate Summer Gourmet Getaway
While most travelers head to the Costa Blanca for its golden beaches and Mediterranean sunsets, a growing number of savvy visitors are discovering another reason to fall in love with Alicante: its world-class gastronomy. And what better time to explore this culinary landscape than during your summer holiday in the Valencian Community.
Just a short drive from Valencia, Alicante Province is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, charming seaside villages, and rich cultural offerings. Here’s how to turn your summer escape into a five-star experience—on and off the plate.
Top Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Alicante Province
1. Quique Dacosta (Dénia) – 3 Stars
Ranked among the top chefs in the world, Quique Dacosta offers an immersive, avant-garde tasting menu that tells the story of the Mediterranean through ingredients like sea fennel, red prawns, and wild herbs. Located near the beach, this is a must-visit for haute cuisine lovers.
2. BonAmb (Xàbia) – 2 Stars
BonAmb is a stunning gastronomic oasis nestled between olive groves and citrus trees. Chef Alberto Ferruz crafts menus that celebrate the seasonal bounty of the Marina Alta region. Don’t miss their wine pairing experience, featuring rare Spanish vintages.
3. L’Escaleta (Cocentaina) – 2 Stars
For a mountain escape with exceptional cuisine, head to L’Escaleta. Known for its smoky rice dishes and locally foraged truffles, this restaurant blends innovation and tradition in unforgettable ways.
4. La Finca (Elche) – 1 Star
Chef Susi Díaz creates poetic plates inspired by Alicante’s gardens, orchards, and coastline. Enjoy elegant dining surrounded by palm trees and serenity—an ideal break from beach crowds.
5. Tula (Xàbia) – 1 Star
Small, intimate, and effortlessly stylish, Tula serves beautifully crafted dishes with a focus on local seafood and organic produce. Perfect for a relaxed, romantic evening.
Things to Do Between Meals: Culture, Nature & Leisure
1. Explore Coastal Towns
Take a day trip to Altea, Jávea, or Villajoyosa to admire whitewashed houses, artisan markets, and beachside cafés. These towns blend traditional Spanish charm with artistic flair.
2. Wine Tours & Tastings
Visit boutique wineries in the Vinalopó Valley or near Salinas to taste Alicante’s signature wines like Monastrell. Many offer tours with tapas under the summer sun.
3. Sunset Sailing & Watersports
From Dénia to Torrevieja, the coastline offers sailing tours, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and boat rentals. Book a sunset cruise with cava for a romantic touch.
4. Open-Air Cinema & Summer Festivals
Alicante hosts several film screenings, jazz concerts, and folk music festivals in plazas and castles. Check out the Castillo de Santa Bárbara for starlit events.
5. Beach Clubs & Rooftop Lounges
For nightlife with a view, explore beach clubs in San Juan Playa or rooftop bars in Alicante city center. Many venues host live DJs, themed parties, and full moon events.
Travel Tips for the Gourmet Explorer
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Advance Reservations: Michelin-starred spots are in high demand in summer. Book early!
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Dress Smart-Casual: Especially for dinner—leave the flip-flops for the beach.
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Local Markets: Visit Mercado Central in Alicante or Mercat de Dénia for artisanal finds.
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Transport: Call us, call Artman Transfers for any inland villages and remote beaches.
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Stay Cool: Many restaurants offer shaded patios and cooling summer menus—think gazpacho, octopus salad, and lemon sorbet.
Pair Your Trip with a Culinary Escape.
Your summer in Spain deserves more than tapas. Go Michelin. Go Alicante.
