Nestled on Spain’s southern coast, Cádiz is a city where history, sunshine, and food come together beautifully. Known as one of Europe’s oldest ports, it has a rich culinary scene that perfectly reflects the Mediterranean diet—fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, olive oil, and local wines. Whether you’re exploring the old town or relaxing on the beach, Cádiz offers unforgettable flavors that embody the heart of Mediterranean eating.
Best Local Dishes to Try
When visiting any new city, it is best to try the local dishes. The dishes will be prepared the best way possible and all made by locals. No imitations here! In Cádiz there are a few dishes that you must try. Add the following dishes to your must try list when exploring Cádiz, Spain.
Tortillitas de Camarones (Shrimp Fritters)
These crispy, paper-thin fritters are a Cádiz classic. Made with chickpea flour, onions, parsley, and tiny local shrimp. They’re fried until golden and served piping hot. Often served as a tapa with a squeeze of fresh lemon. Light, savory, and perfect with a glass of sherry, they capture the Mediterranean diet’s balance of simplicity and flavor.
Atún Rojo de Almadraba (Bluefin Tuna from the Atlantic)
The tuna season in Cádiz is legendary. Caught using a traditional and sustainable method called almadraba, which is a fishing method that dates to the Phoenicians. Bluefin tuna caught this way is celebrated for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep flavor. You’ll find the bluefin tuna is prepared in countless ways—from sashimi-style cuts to grilled steaks. Rich in healthy fats, this dish is a prime example of why the Mediterranean diet is linked to heart health.
Churros Gaditanos with Hot Chocolate
For a sweet treat, Cádiz-style churros are a must. Thicker and less oily than the Madrid version, they’re served with thick, velvety hot chocolate for dipping. You can find these in almost any cafeteria or pastry shop. They are a delicious indulgence for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Pescaito Frito (Mixed Fried Fish)
One of Cádiz’s most iconic plates is a cone of mixed fried fish. Think anchovies, cuttlefish, and tiny hake, dusted in flour, and fried to perfection. It is served in paper cones for eating on the go or during festivals. It’s simple, fresh, and deeply tied to the city’s seafaring heritage. It’s seafood at its most approachable and a local favorite that pairs beautifully with crisp white wine.
Papas Aliñás (Potato Salad with Olive Oil and Tuna)
Simple but full of flavor, this chilled potato salad is dressed with extra-virgin olive oil, onions, parsley, and tuna. It’s light, refreshing, and perfectly in line with the Mediterranean diet’s emphasis on olive oil as the main fat. It is Cádiz’s answer to a refreshing summer dish. Sometimes you can find added olives or boiled eggs to incorporate extra flavor. Unlike heavy potato salads elsewhere, this version is light, wholesome, and heart-healthy thanks to its emphasis on olive oil and fish.
Drinks You Can’t Miss
With all these lovely mouth-watering dishes you’ll need a local drink to wash it all down. Here are some recommendations that we love:
Sherry
Cádiz is part of the famed “Sherry Triandgle,” and tasting local sherry is an essential part of your trip. Sherry is made from the Palomino grape and aged using the unique solera system, which blends younger and older wines to create complex flavors. Here is a breakdown of some sherry options:
- Fino: pale, dry, and crisp. Fino pairs well with seafood tapas like tortillitas de camarones or pescaito frito. Its delicate profile makes it one of the healthiest ways to enjoy sherry in moderation.
- Amontillado: darker and nuttier. This sherry has a richer flavor that matches heartier dishes like tuna or grilled cuttlefish.
- Manzanilla: exclusively made near Sanlúcar de Barrameda (just outside Cádiz). This variety is slightly salty due to the sea breeze influence, making it the perfect companion to shellfish.
- Oloroso: more full-bodied and aromatic. Ideal for sipping slowly after a meal.
Sherry isn’t just a drink here—it’s part of Cádiz’s culture, best enjoyed standing at a bustling tapas bar with locals.
Wines From Nearby Jerez
If sherry is not your favorite, we recommend trying wines from nearby Jerez. The region is gaining recognition for excellent still wines – crisp whites, light roses, and full-bodied reds. These wines, often made from local grape varieties, are versatile and food-friendly. They are designed to complement Mediterranean ingredients like fresh fish, tomatoes, olives, and herbs. These wines showcase Spain’s viticultural richness and complement the local food beautifully.
Where to Eat Like a Local
When visiting a new city, it is crucial to know the best local spots to eat and to avoid touristy spots that overcharge for mediocre food. Here are just a few suggestions on where to find the best local spots.
Tapas Bars in the Old Town
Wander through Cádiz’s narrow streets and stop at family-run tapas bars. These are easy to find because they don’t stress about the latest décor trends. You also may notice that the locals tend to frequent here often and in large groups. Join in on the fun and order a few tapas to share with your friends or family and sample more local dishes.
Fresh Seafood Stalls at the Market
An absolute must do is to check out the local market. This is where you will find the freshest food especially the fresh catch of the day. You’ll notice the locals perusing the aisles trying to find the freshest fruit, vegetables, and especially fish. The Mercado Central de Abastos is one of the best places to see Cádiz’s seafood culture in action. Here, locals buy the freshest fish and shellfish straight from the Atlantic.
Rooftop Terraces for Drinks with a View
Nothing beats a great rooftop terrace to see amazing views of the city. This is the best place to relax after a long day of exploring all that Cádiz has to offer, especially if it is during sunset. At the top you can sit down and relax while sipping on sherry or local wine.
Family-run Taverns and Beachside Chiringuitos
Cádiz’s charm lies in its authentic eateries. Family-owned taverns in hidden alleys and beachside chiringuitos (casual seafood bars) are the best places to enjoy fried fish, tuna dishes, and a true taste of local life. Plus, you will be supporting the local economy.
Cádiz is more than just a destination; it’s a food lover’s paradise where the Mediterranean diet comes alive on every plate. From fresh seafood and olive oil-rich dishes to world-class wines, eating here is a journey through tradition, health, and flavor.
