Benidorm's restaurant scene has evolved dramatically in recent years. While the resort still caters to those seeking familiar international cuisine, a thriving local food culture has emerged with authentic tapas bars, excellent seafood restaurants, and even fine dining options. From a 10 EUR menu del dia to a special occasion dinner with sea views, this guide covers the best places to eat in Benidorm for every budget and taste in 2026.
Old Town Tapas: The Authentic Experience
The Casco Antiguo (Old Town) is home to Benidorm's best tapas scene. Small family-run bars serve traditional Spanish tapas at prices that have barely changed in years - most cost between 2-5 EUR per tapa. The quality and authenticity here is miles ahead of the tourist strip. Locals queue outside the most popular spots, which is always a good sign. The atmosphere is lively, informal, and genuinely Spanish.
- Patatas bravas (spicy potatoes): The Spanish bar snack staple, 3-4 EUR
- Gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns): Sizzling prawns in olive oil, 6-8 EUR
- Pulpo a la gallega (Galician octopus): Tender with paprika, 7-9 EUR
- Croquetas (bechamel croquettes): Ham or mushroom, 4-6 EUR for 6 pieces
- Pan con tomate (bread with tomato): Simple perfection, 2-3 EUR
- Jamon iberico: World-class cured ham sliced thin, 8-12 EUR per plate
Fresh Seafood Restaurants
Being a Mediterranean fishing port, Benidorm has excellent fresh seafood. The best seafood restaurants source daily from the local fleet and markets in nearby Villajoyosa and Santa Pola. Look for restaurants displaying the day's catch on ice at the entrance - this is a sign of freshness. Grilled fish (dorada, lubina) typically costs 12-18 EUR, while seafood paella for two runs 25-40 EUR depending on the restaurant.
Order paella at lunchtime (1-3pm) when it is freshly made. Evening paella is often reheated. Authentic paella takes 20-30 minutes to prepare - if it arrives in 5 minutes, it was pre-made.
Budget-Friendly Eating
The menu del dia remains the best value meal in Spain. Available at lunchtime (1-4pm) at most local restaurants, you get three courses plus bread, a drink, and often dessert or coffee for 10-14 EUR. Another budget option is the numerous Chinese and Indian restaurants offering all-you-can-eat buffets from 8-10 EUR. For breakfast, skip hotel restaurants and visit a local bakery for fresh pastries and coffee for under 3 EUR.
Beach Restaurants and Chiringuitos
Beach bars (chiringuitos) along both Levante and Poniente serve food and drinks with sand between your toes. Quality varies greatly - some are excellent while others serve overpriced tourist fare. Look for ones popular with Spanish families rather than those with multilingual menus and photos on the menu board. The best chiringuitos serve simple grilled fish, paella, and fresh salads at reasonable prices (mains 10-15 EUR).
Restaurant Tips
- Spanish lunch time is 1:30-3:30pm, dinner 8:30-11pm - restaurants are empty outside these hours
- The further from the beach, the cheaper and more authentic the food tends to be
- Ask for the menu del dia even if it is not displayed - many restaurants offer it
- Service charge (servicio) is usually included, tip 5-10% for good service
- Bread and olives brought to your table are usually not free (1-2 EUR) - ask before eating
- The Benidorm Holiday Pass offers 10-20% discounts at partner restaurants
Old Town - the heart of Benidorm's food scene
