The Underrated Food And Wine Destination In Spain You Should Visit
Skip the crowds this summer and head to Spain's coastal autonomous region of Galicia. This stunning northwestern seaside destination has become known for its exceptional locally produced food and wine. Yet, even with its fantastic seafood, refreshing Albariño wines, and riveting culture, it remains a hugely underrated destination. Around a five-hour train ride away from Madrid (with a single transfer), Galicia makes for a perfect weekend getaway or a culturally immersive holiday destination. The world renowned hike known as El Camino typically concludes in Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia, also making this area an excellent place to extend your journey with some well-earned food and drink after days to weeks spent on foot.
As for what to actually eat when you get there, we've got you covered. Simplicity is key in Galicia, which allows the quality of the regional food to stand out without excessive ingredients. Seafood fans will go crazy for Galician octopus, known locally as pulpo a feira. Sometimes served with potatoes, the octopus is flavored with a generous drizzle of olive oil, as well as paprika and sea salt. Merluza a la Gallega is a fish dish also typically presented with potatoes and brought to its full potential with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, paprika, and onion.
Galicia offers more than coast side cuisine, too. For turf lovers, lacón con grelos is delicious, featuring roasted pork served with turnips, one of the region's most beloved vegetables. Classic meals like empanadas and tapas are also popular and can be perfect for a lighter meal.
Where to eat and drink in Galicia
When it comes to Galician wine, the most desired variations stem from Albariño grapes, which transform into white wine that pairs exquisitely with the region's seafood. The Rías Baixas inlets within Galicia produce some of the most notable wine in the region using these grapes, so be sure to keep an eye out for their bottles or — even better — include these sub-regions in your Galicia vacation.
One of the best destinations for food lovers in Galicia has to be the rustic and charming food hall, Mercado de Abastos, located in Santiago de Compostela. Here you'll find fresh and prepared local food served at over 70 stalls. At the outer end of the market you'll encounter Abastos 2.0, a Michelin star restaurant that offers a combination of wine and tapas starting at €30. It's best make reservations, as there is only one (albeit long) table within the restaurant.
Just a 10 minute walk away lies the airy Mercado La Galiciana. You'll find most of the region's most popular dishes from surf to turf, plus tasty local dishes like tortilla Galiciana, which involves potato, eggs, ham, and Arzúa Ulloa cheese, exclusively made with regional milk. For more European foodie destinations head to Italy for their cappuccinos or if you're based in the states, see if Anthony Bourdain recommended a U.S. foodie city near you.