Although Spain is worldfamous for its extraordinary gastronomy, with prestigious chefs, excellent products, and delicious recipes from the sea and land, it is also a great destination for international cuisine. Italian food, for example, is highly appreciated across the country, so much so that there are many restaurants offering authentic Italian cuisine prepared by Italian chefs themselves. Spanish and Italian cuisines share many traits: a Mediterranean diet, a passion for highquality ingredients, and an unwavering respect for tradition. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the best Italian restaurants in Spain. We begin in Madrid, where you’ll find a wide range of Italian cuisine. In the heart of the Salamanca district lies Numa Pompilio, a restaurant with a romantic air inspired by the historic Italy, boasting one of the most beautiful gardens in the city. Its menu features traditional fare: homemade pasta, risottos, fresh seasonal produce, and the finest Italian cheeses and desserts. Another excellent choice in Madrid is Da Nicola, a restaurant in the heart of the city, near the Plaza de España. Its menu offers a wide selection of fresh pasta, risottos, salads, and pizzas, as well as delicious desserts, all in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. In Barcelona, the Italian food scene is just as vibrant. The heart of the city is home to Cecconi’s, a contemporary classic Italian restaurant located in the Gothic Quarter. It serves handmade pasta, seafood, and dishes from northern Italy, all to be enjoyed in a superb setting with a beautiful terrace. Another gem is the restaurant within the Hotel Cotton House, where you can try exquisite Italian dishes like tagliolini with truffle and foie gras, or wild sea bass with Mediterranean flavours.
In Valencia, a city known for its paella, there’s also a thriving Italian culinary scene. One standout is Al Pomodoro, located in the city center near the Cathedral. This cozy eatery offers a menu that combines the best of Italian tradition with innovative twists, featuring dishes like squid ink risotto and truffle pizza, all made with fresh, highquality ingredients. The warm, rustic interior and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Just a short drive from the city, in the charming town of L’Alfàs del Pi, you’ll find Ristorante El Pescatore, an Italian restaurant renowned for its seafood dishes. With views of the Mediterranean Sea, this familyrun establishment serves up fresh catches of the day prepared in classic Italian styles. Their homemade pasta and risottos are also highly recommended, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner by the sea. Heading south to Seville, the heart of Andalusia, Italian cuisine finds a home in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city. La Tagliatella, located in the lively neighborhood of Triana, offers a wide variety of pizzas and pastas, all made with authentic Italian ingredients. The restaurant’s intimate setting, with its exposed brick walls and dim lighting, creates a cozy ambiance perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal. Their extensive wine list features some of the best Italian wines, allowing diners to find the perfect pairing for their meal. In the coastal city of Málaga, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Italian cuisine shines at Trattoria Lorenzo. This restaurant, situated near the famous Malagueta Beach, offers a menu full of traditional Italian dishes, from woodfired pizzas to homemade gnocchi. The open kitchen allows diners to watch the chefs at work, adding an element of theatre to the dining experience. The restaurant’s outdoor terrace is a great spot to enjoy a meal while soaking up the sun and sea breeze. Finally, in the northern city of Bilbao, known for its avantgarde architecture and rich Basque culture, Italian food lovers will find Trattoria Da Vinci, a restaurant that combines the best of both worlds. Located near the iconic Guggenheim Museum, this trattoria offers a fusion of Italian and Basque flavors, with dishes like Iberian ham risotto and pizza with Idiazabal cheese. The restaurant’s modern design, with sleek lines and large windows, provides a chic backdrop for a memorable dining experience.
