A Journey Through the Flavors of the Asturian Sea and Land

Gijón, the coastal jewel of Asturias, is not only known for its beaches and rich cultural heritage, but also for its extraordinary culinary offerings. Located in the heart of the Cantabrian coast, our city offers a culinary variety that combines the best of the land and sea. Whether you’re a foodie or simply a curious traveler, Gijón invites you on a journey through its most authentic flavors.

Gijón and Asturian cuisine

Gijón’s gastronomy is deeply rooted in Asturian tradition, one of the most renowned in Spain. This cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh, local, and seasonal produce, ensuring dishes full of flavor and quality.

In Gijón, you can sample everything from traditional recipes to more innovative offerings that fuse the classic with the contemporary.

Seafood and Fish: Stars of the Cantabrian Sea

Gijón, with its privileged location next to the Cantabrian Sea, is a paradise for fish and seafood lovers. The city has a long fishing tradition, which guarantees a daily supply of fresh fish in its markets and restaurants.

Among the most outstanding dishes, you can’t miss the hake in cider , a typical Asturian recipe where the fish is slowly cooked in a sauce made with natural cider, the perfect accompaniment to highlight the flavors of the sea.

Another star dish is monkfish , known as monkfish in the rest of Spain. This firm, mild-flavored fish is prepared in a variety of ways, with baked monkfish being one of the most popular. Of course, seafood also plays a prominent role in Gijón’s culinary offerings.

Spider crabs , king crabs , and barnacles are just some of the delicacies you can enjoy in the city’s many specialty restaurants.

Cider, the liquid soul of Gijón

Talking about Gijón’s gastronomy without mentioning cider would be unthinkable. This beverage, made with native apples, is much more than a simple drink: it’s an essential part of Asturian culture. In Gijón, cider is lived and celebrated, and it’s common to see locals and tourists participating in the traditional cider pouring process in the city’s many cider mills and cider houses.

Cider is served from a considerable height so that when it hits the glass, it releases all its aromas and properties. This ritual is an experience in itself, and you can’t leave Gijón without trying a “culín” (small amount) of cider with any regional dish.

In addition, in cider houses you can also taste dishes such as chorizo with cider or hake omelet with cider , which demonstrate how this beverage can elevate any recipe.

Spoon Dishes, a tribute to the tradition of Asturian cuisine

Gijón’s gastronomy is also characterized by its rich tradition of stews, perfect for the colder days. Among them, the Asturian fabada stands out, the region’s most emblematic dish. This hearty recipe, made with fabes (white beans), chorizo, blood sausage, and bacon, is a true delight that you can’t miss during your visit to Gijón.

Another dish worth a special mention is the Asturian stew , a type of stew that includes fabes (fabric beans), berza (kale), and compango (chorizo, blood sausage, and bacon). This traditional stew is a perfect example of leftover cooking, where every ingredient is used to create a comforting and flavorful dish.

Traditional Sweets for a Sweet Gijón Experience

After enjoying Gijón’s savory offerings, you can’t leave without trying one of its typical desserts. Asturian pastries are rich and varied, with influences from both local traditions and other parts of Spain.

One of the most famous desserts is rice pudding , prepared creamily with a touch of cinnamon and burnt sugar on top. This dessert is a true culinary gem that will delight all palates.

Another sweet treat you shouldn’t miss is casadiella , a pastry filled with walnuts, sugar, and anise, wrapped in a crispy, fried dough. It’s a typical dessert during Asturian festivals, but in Gijón you can find it year-round in local bakeries.

Restaurants and Cider Houses: Where to Enjoy the Best Gijón Cuisine

Gijón has a wide range of restaurants and cider houses where you can enjoy the best local cuisine. From Michelin-starred establishments to traditional eateries, the city offers options for all tastes and budgets. If you’re looking for a complete gastronomic experience, we recommend visiting one of the restaurants located in the Cimavilla neighborhood, the city’s old town. Here, you can enjoy an authentic atmosphere while tasting the best dishes of Gijón cuisine.

For those who prefer a more informal atmosphere, cider houses are the ideal option. In these establishments, in addition to cider, you can savor a wide variety of tapas and raciones that allow you to try a little bit of everything. From the classic cachopo , a type of escalope stuffed with ham and cheese, to tortos (fried corn cakes) with various sides, Gijón’s cider houses are a must-visit for any food lover.

Gijón, an unforgettable gastronomic destination

Gijón’s culinary offering is one of the city’s main attractions. Its rich culinary tradition, combined with the quality of its local produce and the creativity of its chefs, make this city a must-visit destination for any food lover. Whether you enjoy a meal in a fine-dining restaurant, a traditional cider house, or shopping for fresh produce at the market, Gijón offers a gastronomic experience you won’t soon forget.

Visiting Gijón means immersing yourself in a world of authentic flavors, where every dish tells a story and every sip of cider celebrates Asturian culture.

Don’t wait any longer to discover everything Gijón has to offer!