Although less known than other regional cuisines in Spain, the cuisine of Murcia is simply spectacular. We invite you to visit this region, which is home to a significant part of “Europe’s vegetable garden,” and try some of the best restaurants in Murcia. The flavours will leave a lasting impression.
In this article, we’ll share several recommendations to help you make the most of the local produce, with both classic and modern recipes, all full of flavour. You’ll notice the Arabic influence in the desserts, the freshness of the vegetables, and the richness of the seafood dishes with fish and shellfish from the Mediterranean. And, of course, all of this is accompanied by spectacular wines produced in the region, mainly from the Jumilla and Yecla DOs (Designations of Origin).
Where to Enjoy Traditional Murcian Cuisine
It’s easy to find restaurants in Murcia where you can enjoy exquisite dishes, sample some of the best wines in Spain, and experience all that the city and region have to offer. However, there are a few key spots that are a true delight if you’re looking to enjoy tapas and explore Murcian cuisine in the city:
- Plaza de Las Flores: A lively area in Murcia, with several terraces of bars and restaurants where you can enjoy tapas and try various typical dishes of the region.
- Plaza del Cardenal Belluga: The streets leading to this square are filled with fantastic places to sample Murcian cuisine, with a particular focus on tapas.
- Plaza Julián Romea: In the heart of Murcia, surrounded by palaces and other historical buildings, this square offers a little bit of everything: terraces, national and international restaurants, as well as shops to explore before or after dining.
- Plaza de San Juan: Another fantastic option to try the region’s cuisine, located in one of the city’s most important neighbourhoods, with an outstanding gastronomic offer.
Don’t forget the coast of Murcia, where you’ll find numerous restaurants and beach bars in front of some of the country’s best beaches. Here, you can enjoy fish, shellfish, and rice dishes that will leave you speechless.
Restaurants in the Centre of Murcia
Now that you know some of the best areas in the city and region to sample its cuisine, let’s go into more detail and suggest some of the top-rated restaurants in Murcia.
This restaurant, specialising in grilled meats and fish, is one of the best in the centre of Murcia. You’ll see how expertly they work with the grills and how they prepare a variety of fish, meats, and skewers. The decor is particularly interesting, featuring remnants of the city’s Arab wall, a Josper oven on display, and a very pleasant dining room. Suckling pig, octopus, rice dishes, and varied seafood are just some of the options you can try here.
Located in the Santa Eulalia neighbourhood, Restaurante Salzillo blends tradition and innovation to create fantastic dishes using local produce, from coastal ingredients to land vegetables and native meats. It’s a family-run restaurant with a refined atmosphere and a carefully crafted menu, including a selection of wines.
With fresh, high-quality ingredients and a constant search for the authentic flavours of Murcia, Restaurante El Churra pays attention to every detail to offer a wonderful dining experience. Its extensive menu features various starters, both cold and hot, meats, fish, and vegetables, along with a long wine list worth exploring.
Since 1981, this restaurant has been a meeting point for lovers of Murcian cuisine. The space is well-designed, with a unique interpretation of regional cooking. It’s located in Plaza de Santa Isabel, making it one of the highest-quality restaurants in central Murcia. These reasons make Restaurante Jota Ele a must-visit stop on any culinary tour of the city.
A laid-back venue that has been open since 1926, Los Zagales knows everything there is to know about Murcian tradition. Here, you’ll find a variety of tapas and home-cooked meals at affordable prices, allowing you to sample a bit of everything. It’s worth visiting to appreciate the old photos on the walls and experience the authenticity of one of the most iconic restaurants in Murcia.
Another classic in the city, with nearly 100 years of history, Restaurante Rincón de Pepe is known for its quality products and service. If you’re after traditional food made with locally sourced ingredients and a meticulous approach, this is your best option for dining in Murcia.
What Dishes Should You Try in Murcia?
To know what to order at restaurants in Murcia, here are the essential dishes of Murcian cuisine:
- Zarangollo: A scrambled egg dish with garden vegetables, sometimes including potato or aubergine. It’s a common accompaniment or appetizer that you must try in Murcia.
- Caldero del Mar Menor: This typical rice dish from the region is a must-try in the local gastronomy. Its rich broth and the use of rock fish give it a unique flavour that you’ll want to order again.
- Michirones: A stew with broad beans, chorizo, bacon, pancetta, and various spices. It’s hearty, intense, and delicious. In some areas, potatoes are added.
- Paparajotes: Perhaps the most typical dessert from the Murcia region. Of Arab origin, its preparation is as simple as it is delicious. Lemon tree leaves are covered in a flour and egg batter, fried, and then dusted with cinnamon and sugar. Has your mouth started watering yet?
- Marinera: You’ll find this delicious tapa in any bar in the region. A ring of bread is topped with tuna salad, potatoes, and olives, with anchovies on top. Simple but irresistible.
Murcia: A Culinary Destination. Come and Discover It.
If you’ve already decided to visit this region, whether for its cuisine or its many other wonders, you might be interested in checking out this selection of fantastic accommodations in Murcia. Some are located near the beach, with pools, barbecues, and many other fantastic features for a perfect holiday. Come and discover the restaurants in the centre of Murcia, all while enjoying comfort and tranquillity.
