Top 5 mejores lugares donde comer una buena paella valencian
Best Valencian Paellas: What Makes Them Special?
Paella has been, is, and will probably remain the flagship dish of the Valencian Community for a long time to come. After centuries of history and evolution, it has become one of the most emblematic gastronomic symbols of Spanish culture, with demand that crosses borders. But what makes it so special?
The story surrounding paella is almost as rich and extensive as that of the Valencian Community itself. Its unmistakable flavor—driven by rice grown in the Valencian fields—the variety of characteristic ingredients, and its particular method of preparation (which also gives the dish its name) are the main factors that have contributed to its international fame.
What Should a Good Valencian Paella Restaurant Have?
A restaurant can stand out for many reasons. The most obvious is the quality of its food, but service, customer care, and even décor also play a role. Everything adds up to create a memorable experience, and these details can make the difference.
However, what truly defines a good paella restaurant is the love and respect shown to this dish. It’s not just about following a recipe, but about understanding the tradition, carefully selecting ingredients, respecting cooking times, and, above all, cooking with passion. Making an authentic paella requires a very specific technique aimed at producing grains of rice that are cooked yet intact and separate, and that can absorb the flavors of the stock. A true paella lover knows that every grain tells a story and that every preparation is an opportunity to pay homage to Valencian culture.
Best Places to Eat Valencian Paella
Below we’ll show you the best restaurants to eat Valencian paella. All of these establishments have earned their place on this list through their own merits, so we can assure you that you’ll only find restaurants of the highest quality.
Casa Carmela (Valencia City)
Located just meters from La Malvarrosa Beach is Casa Carmela, a restaurant with a long history dating back over a century. What began in 1922 as a humble seaside hut is today a major reference for Valencian paella throughout Spain. After four generations, the legacy of Doña Carmen and Don José remains more alive than ever, preserving the values, passion, and respect for tradition of yesteryear.
Here, paella is made in the most traditional way possible: with orange wood, fresh local ingredients, and above all, without haste. Everything is done to achieve a thin layer of rice and that unmistakable flavor that characterizes a good paella.
It’s important to note that Valencian paellas must be ordered in advance and are limited in number each day due to their characteristic wood-fired preparation, so if you plan to visit, it’s advisable to reserve ahead of time.
4.4/5 stars with over 8,000 reviews
(+34) 963 710 073
(+34) 696 017 989
Bon Aire (El Palmar)
Bon Aire is a gastronomic gem in the heart of l’Albufera, where tradition and flavor go hand in hand. Founded in 1982 by a local farming family, this restaurant offers an authentic experience that pays homage to the classic Valencian cuisine.
Under the direction of chef Raúl Magraner, winner of several awards including first place in the 2018 International Valencian Paella Competition in Sueca, Bon Aire combines respect for its roots with a touch of innovation. Every dish reflects history, technique, and a passion you can taste from the first bite.
Today, the third generation leads the way with the same dedication: Elena Marco in the dining room and Borja Marco, award-winning paella cook, in the kitchen. If you want to enjoy their famous Valencian paella, it’s highly recommended to order it in advance, as it’s prepared à la minute.
4.6/5 stars with over 5,000 reviews
961 620 310
Sequial 20 (Sueca)
Located in the birthplace of paella, Sueca, Sequial 20 is a temple of rice that masterfully combines tradition and creativity. Led by chef Juan José San Bartolomé Grau, this restaurant has earned a prominent place on the Valencian dining scene.
In 2023, their work was recognized with the first prize at the International Valencian Paella Competition in Sueca, solidifying their reputation as one of the best in their specialty. Their menu features everything from the classic Valencian paella to creative dishes like “arroz del senyoret,” plus an original “tapa day” every Friday with over 70 varieties.
With seating for 150 and affordable daily menus, it’s the place to go if you’re wondering where to eat Valencian paella. Be sure to reserve in advance if you want to try their signature paella, as it’s made to order with the care and timing tradition demands.
4.2/5 stars with over 1,000 reviews
686 989 742
Arrocería Cullasiete (Alfafar)
In the heart of Alfafar, Cullasiete isn’t just another restaurant—it’s a tribute to wood-fired cooking, seasonal products, and perfectly cooked rice. Chefs Antonio Quiles and David Magraner lead the way, understanding that the experience begins long before you sit at the table.
Here, there’s no fixed menu. The offerings adapt to guests and include two starters and a rice dish for €28, with plates changing according to the market and daily inspiration. But the most unique feature is that the rice is cooked over wood right in front of the customer, outdoors, in a space designed to enjoy the full ritual: the fire, the smoke, the aromas, and the sound of the paella cooking.
Highlights include black rice with scorpionfish and garlic, melt-in-your-mouth beef cheek with boletus, and fideuàs, all made with homemade stocks and impeccable execution. Cullasiete has been recognized with awards such as Best Paella in the Valencian Community (Sueca 2019), honored for its fidelity to tradition.
Here you come to eat, but also to watch, converse, and reconnect with real cooking. Reservation in advance is essential, as every rice dish is made from scratch with intention.
4.8/5 stars with 53 reviews
Las Bairetas (Chiva)
A few kilometers from Valencia, in Chiva, Las Bairetas has established itself as one of the great temples of wood-fired rice. For over two decades, the Margós family has made this rice house a family project where tradition is not only respected but celebrated daily.
Their approach revolves around real fire, local produce, and meticulous execution. Nothing is hidden here: all 140+ fires are in view of the diners, and you can watch each paella being made from scratch. This direct contact with the kitchen turns every visit into an experience beyond the plate.
The menu includes traditional and seasonal recipes, with combinations as delicious as cuttlefish and mantis shrimp rice, duck with artichokes, or creamy free-range chicken with bay bolete mushrooms. These are complemented by grilled specialties, homemade starters, and house-made desserts, all balanced between rustic charm and refinement.
Moreover, during the 2024 DANA, Las Bairetas not only continued serving meals under extreme conditions but also devoted itself to its community by cooking for neighbors and volunteers. It’s a testament to their vocation and commitment, which shines through in every spoonful: here, cooking is done with soul, with fire, and with conviction.
4.5/5 stars with over 1,400 reviews
+34 96 252 13 73
L’Alter (Picassent)
Perched atop a hill in Picassent, surrounded by carob-lined paths, L’Alter is a restaurant that has embodied authenticity and flavor since 1967. Founded by grandparents Juliet and Amparo as an open-air picnic spot, it is now a benchmark for traditional Valencian cuisine, run by the family’s third generation.
Their specialty is Valencian chicken and rabbit paella, slow-cooked over orange and carob wood, following ancestral methods that impart an unmistakable taste and aroma. They also offer varieties such as seafood paella, baked rice, or creamy duck and mushroom rice, always prepared with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
With a large paella cooktop featuring 22 burners and a cozy atmosphere, L’Alter is the ideal spot for a family or friends gathering. Given the artisanal preparation of their rice dishes, it’s advisable to reserve in advance to guarantee an unforgettable culinary experience.
4.4/5 stars with over 2,000 reviews
(+34) 961 230 537
(+34) 666 466 091
La Pepica (Valencia city)
Founded in 1898, La Pepica is one of Valencia’s most emblematic restaurants and a true institution in paella history. Situated on the promenade of Las Arenas Beach, this century-old establishment has been a meeting place for writers, artists, and food lovers for generations.
Its menu pays homage to authentic Valencian cuisine, with paella as the star dish, always prepared with fresh ingredients following the traditional recipe. Among its specialties is the Paella Pepica, served with peeled seafood, created specifically for the painter Joaquín Sorolla. The restaurant has also hosted figures such as Ernest Hemingway, Ava Gardner, and King Juan Carlos, drawn by its cuisine and prime location.
With capacity for over 450 diners and a terrace overlooking the sea, La Pepica offers a gastronomic experience steeped in history. If you want to try their famous paellas, it’s recommended to reserve in advance.
4/5 stars with over 12,000 reviews
Best Places to Buy Takeaway Paella
As we know that sometimes you don’t feel like going out but the craving for paella never disappears, we also recommend a list of the 5 best places to order paella for delivery and enjoy it from the comfort of your home:
Rocarroz
If there is one name that stands out when talking about takeaway paella in Valencia, it’s Rocarroz. From its workshop in Rocafort, this project has established itself as a reference for those seeking well-made rice dishes, without frills, and with just the right touch that is so hard to find outside home.
What sets Rocarroz apart is its commitment to quality and tradition: fresh ingredients, stocks made from scratch, and precise cooking that arrives at its destination with flavor and texture intact. Additionally, its menu is concise but refined, with options like arroz del senyoret, creamy duck and mushroom rice, fideuà, or the classic Valencian, all cooked to order with the same care as in a dining room setting.
There are no tables or tablecloths here, but there is something that matters more: consistency, flavor, and reliability. Rocarroz is proof that a good paella doesn’t need a sea view, only skilled hands and respect for the cooking process.
4.6/5 stars with over 150 reviews
Tu arrocero
In the world of home-delivered rice, Tu Arrocero makes a difference with its convenience, quality, and reach. They cook authentic paellas in a traditional pan and deliver them to your home freshly made. But the best part is that they then come back to pick up the pan without you having to do a thing: no deposit, no travel, no hassle.
Their offering is simple but effective: quality ingredients, timeless recipes, and careful cooking. You can choose classics like the Valencian or senyoret rice, or more special options like lobster rice or fideuàs. All with the homemade flavor you expect… but without having to cook.
Additionally, they deliver not only in Valencia but also in areas of Castellón and Alicante, making them one of the few truly effective options if you’re looking for good takeaway paella throughout the Valencian Community. Ideal for celebrations, weekends, or any occasion when you want to eat well without complications.
4.8/5 stars with over 1,100 reviews
960490410
Tu Paella en Casa
Since 2018, Tu Paella en Casa has brought the authentic flavor of Valencian paella to homes in Valencia and surrounding areas. With over 2,000 orders delivered, their commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every dish they prepare.
Their service stands out for its efficiency: they deliver the paella directly to your doorstep and, after 90 minutes, collect the container so you don’t have to worry about anything else. They also offer free delivery in Valencia city and nearby areas. The menu includes everything from the classic Valencian paella to rice dishes like mushroom, duck, and foie gras rice, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their ordering process is straightforward and quick through their website.
With outstanding customer service and generous servings, Tu Paella en Casa has established itself as a reliable option for enjoying authentic paella without leaving home.
4,/5 stars with over 150 reviews
Arrosos per emportar Pepi Rodriguez
In Alcàsser, Pepi Rodríguez has turned her rice shop into a benchmark for lovers of authentic paella. With over three decades of experience, Pepi has perfected the art of takeaway rice dishes, offering plates renowned for their flavor and tradition.
Her dedication and skill led her to win the second prize at the 61st International Valencian Paella Competition in Sueca, one of the most prestigious contests in the world for this specialty.
At her establishment, Arrosos per emportar Pepi, an average of 30 paellas are prepared daily, all made with quality ingredients and traditional methods. In addition to the classic Valencian paella, her menu includes fideuàs and other rice dishes that capture the essence of local cuisine.
A trusted choice for those who value craftsmanship and well-executed flavors.
4.7/5 stars with over 85 reviews
639 590 529
Arrocería Ricepaella
In the heart of Valencia, Ricepaella offers a unique gastronomic experience, blending traditional rice cooking with an innovative twist. Behind this project is David Montero, known on Instagram as @ricepaella, who has taken his passion for rice dishes beyond borders, becoming an international reference.
Their menu ranges from the classic Valencian paella to more daring creations like pumpkin rice with cuttlefish and caramelized onion, or cherry rice with seasonal vegetables. All dishes are prepared in individual portions and can be ordered for takeaway or delivery.
Additionally, Ricepaella offers workshops and has published the book "Paella Lovers", where they share their knowledge and love for this emblematic dish. An ideal choice for those who want to enjoy flavorful rice dishes in the comfort of their home.
Notably, David Montero was awarded first prize for the Best Paella in the Valencian Community at the 58th International Paella Competition in Sueca, one of the world’s most prestigious contests.
4.8/5 stars with over 850 reviews
Tips for Choosing a Good Place to Eat Valencian Paella
And if you feel like exploring on your own? Valencia is undoubtedly the best place to enjoy a delicious paella. In this list, we’ve shared the best restaurants for paella based on our experience and opinion, but there are certainly many more worth discovering. Here are some tips to help you choose a good paella restaurant without falling into tourist traps.
Avoid Tourist Menus
They may seem appealing at first glance: a typical starter like a tapa, a portion of paella with something to nibble on, and finally a dessert—all bundled into a fixed menu. While this can be a good introduction to local cuisine, it’s not the best way to experience a genuine paella. A true paella should be ordered in advance and prepared fresh when requested. It shouldn’t be pre-made and reheated later, which is what these types of restaurants often do. If they don’t bring you fresh paella straight to the table, it’s better not to return.
Check the Ingredients
It’s very common, especially outside the Valencian Community, to add ingredients not part of the original paella recipe. The essential ingredients for an authentic paella are: oil, saffron, rabbit, garrofó beans, bachoquetes beans, chicken, salt, tomato, paprika, and obviously rice. Who hasn’t seen a paella with peas, chorizo, plain rice, carrots, etc., on social media? This happens more often than you think, especially in restaurants not specialized in serving original, traditional paella. So if you’re unsure, it’s best to ask before falling into a tourist trap.
Read Restaurant Reviews
Arguably one of the quickest and most effective ways to decide if a place is worth visiting. Just search the restaurant’s name on Google and read its reviews. Would you eat somewhere with bad reviews? Probably not.
Location Isn’t Everything
It’s understandable that as a tourist you might want paella in El Carmen neighborhood, steps from La Malvarrosa Beach, or near the town hall—but to eat a truly good paella, you sometimes need to venture to quieter, less crowded spots. Villages a bit outside Valencia, near the Albufera area, can be great options. You can also explore neighborhoods with fewer tourists, where long-time locals know the hidden gems. Keep in mind that restaurants that capitalize most on tourists are usually in the busiest areas (though not always). So getting a little lost around Valencia might be your best plan to enjoy a delicious paella.
What Other Traditional Recipes Can You Try at a Valencian Paella Restaurant?
Naturally, a rice cook doesn’t live on paella alone. To be a true “arrocero,” one must master all rice dishes. And yes—the chef who knows how to make an authentic Valencian paella to perfection can make any rice dish. If you find a restaurant that prepares an outstanding Valencian paella, you can also expect dishes such as:
Baked Rice (arròs al forn)
Made with almost the same ingredients as Valencian paella (chicken, rabbit, rice, etc.) but cooked in a clay pot in the oven. It’s typically prepared with blood sausage, pancetta, and potato. A flavorful, hearty essential in any good rice restaurant.
Creamy Rice (arroz meloso)
A rice with a creamier texture, similar to risotto but with a Mediterranean base. It’s prepared with different ingredients depending on the season: duck and mushrooms, lobster, cuttlefish and artichokes, etc.
Fideuà
A typical coastal recipe that replaces rice with thin noodles. It’s made with seafood and fish, cooked in a paella pan, and traditionally served with allioli.
Senyoret Rice (arroz del senyoret)
A peeled seafood rice (hence the name, for the “gentleman” who doesn’t want to dirty his hands). It’s served clean, with squid, prawns, and fish—very typical in coastal areas.
Seafood Paella
Although not the traditional “Valenciana,” it’s very common in paella restaurants. It’s prepared with prawns, crayfish, mussels, and cuttlefish. Ideal for those who prefer marine flavors.
Crusted Rice (arroz con costra)
Originating from the Elche area, this rice is baked in the oven and covered with beaten egg, which forms a golden crust when gratinated. It includes sausages such as white, red, or blood sausage.
The Great Paella Confusion
As mentioned before, the dish is called paella because it’s cooked in a “paella,” but… is it called the same everywhere? The rice dish is called paella no matter where you go, but it’s the pan where it’s cooked that sparks debate. For Valencians, it’s clear: paella is both the dish and the pan, whereas in the rest of Spain it’s usually called “paellera.” This has generated a wide debate about the correct name for this utensil. If you’re curious, you can read our blog post.
And that’s all, rice lovers! With all this information, you can go anywhere and end up with a delicious plate of paella on your table. We hope our recommendations and tips have been useful, and we wish you a hearty meal!
Javier Baixauli
Our CEO and founder, Javier Baixauli, naturally, is a huge paella lover. In this tutorial, he demonstrates his love for all things paella and rice. With over 20 years in the world of rice and hospitality, he combines his love for paella with the experience of hundreds of catering events, festivities, and popular celebrations, not to mention paellas among friends and family. Catering, paella equipment rentals, thousands of products sold worldwide, guides, tutorials, and in-person advice, Javier and the Original Paella team pride themselves on ensuring that the love for paella spreads worldwide with every action in their name, including, in this case, this tutorial. Follow and discover other tutorials, events, and recipes on our Instagram @originalpaella.