Discover the essence of Valencia through its most iconic dish: paella. Learn where and how to enjoy the very best recipes—even by the sea—and immerse yourself in authentic Mediterranean flavors.
The genuine Valencian paella is a culinary journey you simply can’t miss. Trace its origins in L’Albufera, explore the best places to taste it, and uncover the secrets of its essential ingredients and regional variations. For a truly unforgettable experience, you can even enjoy paella on board, sailing the Mediterranean Sea.
A trip to Valencia wouldn’t be complete without savoring this masterpiece in its birthplace. Whether you’re here for a few days, on holiday, or visiting for business, tasting authentic Valencian paella is an absolute must.
Valencian paella is one of the most iconic culinary treasures of the Valencian Community, especially in Valencia and along the Mediterranean coast. The traditional recipe is made with local ingredients such as rice, chicken, rabbit, and fresh vegetables from the Valencian orchard. Today, you’ll also find delicious variations, such as seafood paella or the famous paella del senyoret, among others, depending on the region of the Valencian Community where it is prepared.
Sometimes, finding the perfect place to enjoy authentic Valencian paella can be difficult—even in Valencia! But don’t worry, keep reading because we know the best spots to savor this traditional dish.
Before you grab your wooden spoon—yes, that’s right! The best Valencian paella is eaten straight from the paella pan with a wooden spoon—you should know a little about its history. Valencian paella was born in L’Albufera back in the 16th century, as a humble meal for field workers. Farmers cooked it with whatever the land provided. Today, this area remains one of the most beautiful in Valencia, where you’ll find restaurants with breathtaking views in the idyllic Natural Park, surrounded by birds and rice fields.
In Valencia, paella is an art form. Whether it’s the classic paella valenciana with chicken and garrofó, a rich seafood paella, or the famous paella del senyoret (as it’s known locally), you’ll taste flavors you won’t find anywhere else. Some say it’s due to Valencia’s climate, water, and unique rice, while others credit the altitude. In fact, the temperature at which water boils—and thus how rice cooks—varies with altitude. Here in Valencia, slow and precise cooking creates the perfect texture, making the rice truly unforgettable.
Be sure to reserve in advance when dining at a paella restaurant. Valencian paella is a delicacy that takes time to prepare, and in the best restaurants, they’ll ask you ahead of time if you plan to order paella and for how many people.
It’s also important to note that paella is always ordered for a minimum of two people. This way, you can enjoy it directly from the very pan in which it’s cooked—the paella itself. And remember: the true flavor is best experienced when eaten straight from the pan!
To taste the most authentic paella, there’s no better place than Valencia itself. So, ladies and gentlemen, if you haven’t been here yet, perhaps it’s time to plan your next trip and make the beautiful city of Valencia your destination.
And since you’re looking for the best Valencian paella, let’s go over the essential ingredients. A true paella valenciana must include them all—if it has extras, it’s no longer the original recipe; and if any are missing, it isn’t authentic either.
A good Valencian paella must have an intense flavor, with every spoonful melting in your mouth and offering a perfect blend of aromas and tastes. It is also a healthy choice, fully aligned with the balanced Mediterranean diet.
Here are the indispensable ingredients for the most authentic Valencian paella recipe:
400 g of Bomba rice
1 kg of chopped chicken
500 g of chopped rabbit
200 g of green beans
100 g of fresh garrofó (a local white bean)
100 g of chopped tomato
6 tablespoons of olive oil
A few threads of saffron
Ground red paprika
1 sprig of rosemary
Salt to taste
Across the Valencian Community, you’ll also find local variations of paella, each with its own twist. If you’re traveling through the region, you may want to try different styles such as: Paella from Castellón, Paella from El Camp de Túria, Paella from La Marina, Paella from La Ribera Alta, Paella from La Ribera Baixa, or Paella from La Safor—among other unique versions and rice dishes.
If you love the sea and great food, our paella service on board in Valencia offers the perfect plan.
Paella is meant to be shared—with family, friends, or whoever you choose! That’s why we offer special paella menus on our rental boats in Valencia, ideal for party packs, bachelor celebrations, or corporate events.
And if you still can’t decide between the best views and the best Valencian paella, why not enjoy both? Savor our delicious paellas on board—an authentic delicacy served in an exclusive setting right in the port of Valencia.
Rent our boats in Valencia, we offer sailboats, yachts, speedboats, and catamarans, perfect for special events or celebrating life. Enjoy our meal service on board, boat rental with Paella Menu for families, friends or romantic events.
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