Anchovies and food tradition of L'Escala

Taste L'Escala

Food of L'Escala

Anchovies with history, harbour catch and Empordà cooking: eating in L'Escala means discovering the Costa Brava on the plate.

L'Escala means anchovy, a living fish market and tables with Mediterranean views. From Fonti Nugué, in the old town since 1962, you are a stroll from classic taverns, Empordà rice dishes and terraces where sunset stretches out with a fine DO Empordà wine.

Anchovies of L'Escala

The L'Escala anchovy is an emblem: artisanal salting, family tradition and an intense flavour celebrated worldwide. Visiting a conservatory or tasting them as a tapa is almost a ritual: olive oil, toasted bread and the sea concentrated in one bite.

  • Try them in oil and also in classic salt cure.
  • Pair with tomato, local bakery bread and an Empordà white wine.
  • Ask about visits to historic workshops or shops in town.
Anchovies of L'Escala
The anchovy, L'Escala's culinary symbol.

Harbour and fresh fish

L'Escala's harbour beats to the rhythm of the boats: catch of the day, fish-market atmosphere and restaurants where the product comes first. From a simple plate of prawns to a suquet or grilled fish, freshness is the best argument.

  • Ask what just came in: the day's menu tells the story of the sea.
  • Ideal at midday, when the quay is liveliest.
  • Book ahead in peak season for a terrace with a view.
Harbour and fresh fish in L'Escala
L'Escala harbour and catch of the day.

Rice dishes and Empordà cooking

Beyond fish, Empordà cuisine charms with dry and creamy rice dishes, fideuàs, local cured meats and seasonal plates. In L'Escala sea and inland meet: a perfect balance of salt breeze and Empordà produce.

  • Order the rice of the day: every house has its version.
  • Don't miss land products: cured meats, cheese, olive oil.
  • A DO Empordà wine closes the meal with character.
Rice dishes and Empordà cooking in L'Escala
Rice dishes and Empordà flavours.

Old-town terraces

L'Escala's old town invites unhurried meals: stone lanes, shaded squares and terraces where time slows down. From Fonti Nugué you are steps from ideal spots for a vermouth, a long dinner or dessert overlooking the promenade.

  • Explore the pedestrian streets at dusk.
  • Combine a terrace with a walk to the harbour or Riells.
  • In summer, book a table for outdoor dining.
Old-town terraces in L'Escala
Terraces and old-town atmosphere.