Seville

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Seafood

Sections

1. Popular Seafood Dishes in Seville

Seville’s seafood offerings are deeply rooted in Andalusian culinary traditions, often featuring simple preparations that highlight the freshness of the ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes:

Tapas and Small Plates

  • Gambas al Ajillo: Prawns cooked in olive oil, garlic, and chili. A classic and flavorful dish.
  • Boquerones en Vinagre: Fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar, olive oil, and garlic. Often served as a tapa.
  • Tortillitas de Camarones: Thin, crispy shrimp fritters made with tiny shrimp (camarones) and chickpea flour.
  • Chocos Fritos: Fried cuttlefish, similar to calamari but with a slightly firmer texture.
  • Pulpo a la Gallega: Octopus served with olive oil, paprika, and sea salt, often on a bed of potatoes.

Main Dishes

  • Arroz con Mariscos: A seafood rice dish, similar to paella, featuring a mix of shellfish like mussels, clams, and prawns.
  • Pescado a la Plancha: Grilled fish, often sea bass (lubina) or bream (dorada), seasoned simply with olive oil and salt.
  • Atún Rojo: Bluefin tuna, often served grilled or as a tartare. Tuna from the nearby Cádiz region is highly prized.
  • Caldereta de Mariscos: A hearty seafood stew with a tomato-based broth, featuring a mix of fish and shellfish.

Shellfish

  • Almejas a la Marinera: Clams cooked in a white wine and garlic sauce.
  • Langostinos de Sanlúcar: Large prawns from Sanlúcar de Barrameda, a coastal town near Seville, known for their exceptional quality.

2. Best Places to Enjoy Seafood in Seville

Seville offers a mix of traditional taverns, modern restaurants, and bustling markets where you can enjoy fresh seafood. Here are some top recommendations:

Restaurants

  1. La Azotea

    • Why Visit: A modern take on traditional Andalusian cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood. Their tuna tartare and grilled octopus are highly recommended.
    • Location: Multiple locations, including Calle Jesús del Gran Poder, 31.
    • Price Range: €20–€40 per person.

  2. Freiduría La Isla

    • Why Visit: A classic spot for fried seafood, offering a variety of fish and shellfish served in paper cones.
    • Location: Calle García de Vinuesa, 13.
    • Price Range: €10–€20 per person.

  3. Restaurante Egaña-Oriza

    • Why Visit: A fine-dining experience with a focus on high-quality seafood and Basque-inspired dishes.
    • Location: Calle San Fernando, 41.
    • Price Range: €40–€60 per person.

  4. Bodeguita Romero

    • Why Visit: Known for its traditional tapas, including excellent gambas al ajillo and boquerones.
    • Location: Calle Harinas, 10.
    • Price Range: €15–€30 per person.

  5. Casa Robles

    • Why Visit: A historic restaurant offering a wide range of seafood dishes, including arroz con mariscos and grilled fish.
    • Location: Calle Álvarez Quintero, 58.
    • Price Range: €30–€50 per person.

Markets

  1. Mercado de Triana

    • Why Visit: A vibrant market located in the Triana neighborhood, offering fresh seafood and small eateries where you can sample dishes like oysters, grilled fish, and fried seafood.
    • Location: Plaza del Altozano, s/n.
    • Tip: Visit in the morning for the freshest selection.

  2. Mercado Lonja del Barranco

    • Why Visit: A modern food market with various stalls serving seafood tapas, including fried fish and shellfish.
    • Location: Calle Arjona, s/n.
    • Tip: Great for a casual meal with a view of the Guadalquivir River.

3. Typical Costs

Seafood in Seville is generally affordable, though prices can vary depending on the type of dish and the dining venue. Here’s a rough guide:

  • Tapas: €3–€6 per plate (e.g., gambas al ajillo, boquerones en vinagre).
  • Fried Seafood Platters: €10–€20 (depending on portion size and variety).
  • Main Dishes: €15–€30 (e.g., arroz con mariscos, grilled fish).
  • Fine Dining: €40–€60 per person for a multi-course meal with seafood.

4. Dining Customs and Cultural Tips

Understanding local dining customs will enhance your experience:

  • Tapas Culture: In Seville, seafood is often enjoyed as part of the tapas tradition. Order a few small plates to share with friends or family, and pair them with a glass of local wine or sherry.
  • Freshness Matters: Locals value fresh, high-quality seafood. Restaurants and markets typically source their seafood daily from nearby coastal areas like Huelva and Cádiz.
  • Meal Times: Lunch (1:30 PM–4:00 PM) and dinner (8:30 PM–11:00 PM) are the main meals. Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner, so plan accordingly.
  • Seasonal Specialties: Some seafood, like bluefin tuna, is seasonal. Check with your server for recommendations based on what’s freshest.
  • Sharing is Common: It’s customary to share dishes, especially in tapas bars. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from the staff.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated. Leaving 5–10% of the bill is considered generous.

5. Practical Tips for Enjoying Seafood in Seville

  • Language: While many menus are available in English, learning a few Spanish phrases (e.g., "¿Qué pescado fresco tienen hoy?" – "What fresh fish do you have today?") can be helpful.
  • Allergies: If you have shellfish allergies, communicate this clearly to your server ("Soy alérgico/a a los mariscos").
  • Sustainability: Andalusia is committed to sustainable fishing practices. Look for restaurants that highlight locally sourced and sustainable seafood.
  • Pairing Drinks: Pair your seafood with a crisp white wine like Albariño or a dry sherry (fino or manzanilla) for an authentic Andalusian experience.

Seville offers a delightful seafood experience that combines fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and a vibrant dining culture. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets or savoring a meal at a fine-dining restaurant, you’re sure to enjoy the city’s seafood offerings. ¡Buen provecho!