Moreira: Secret Restaurants and Bars for Tourists
Moreira is one of those Costa Blanca towns that does not need loud promotion. This small coastal resort between Calpe and Jávea has long been popular with Europeans, yet it has managed to preserve a rare balance between tourist infrastructure and local life. There is no mass tourism in the usual sense here; instead, you’ll find a well-kept promenade, a working port, an old town, and a gastronomic scene focused primarily on quality rather than volume.
The gastronomy of Moreira is built around simple but impeccable principles: fresh ingredients, respect for the sea, seasonality, and a calm pace of life. Many restaurants have been operating for decades, passing down recipes and culinary philosophy from generation to generation. Alongside them, modern bars and creative culinary projects thrive, blending naturally into the town’s character without disturbing its intimate atmosphere.
This article is not a list of tourist “must-visit” spots, but a thoughtful gastronomic guide to Moreira. It features restaurants and bars appreciated by locals, frequented by long-term foreign residents, and places where visitors can truly experience the authentic taste of this corner of the Costa Blanca. All establishments mentioned are current, operating at the time of publication, and have official websites.
Moreira’s Gastronomy: The Sea as the Foundation of the Cuisine
The cuisine of Moreira is a direct reflection of its geography. The town grew around its port, and the sea defines the gastronomic character of the region. The menus of most restaurants are dominated by the catch of the day, shellfish, prawns, squid, and octopus, prepared in the simplest ways possible: grilled, baked, or slowly cooked in traditional stews.
Complex sauces or aggressive spices are rarely used. Instead, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, and sea salt take center stage. This approach preserves the natural flavor of the ingredients, which is especially important when the seafood often reaches the kitchen the very same day it is caught.
Beyond seafood, Moreira also showcases strong Valencian culinary traditions: rice dishes, vegetables, legumes, rabbit, and lamb. Many restaurants offer their own versions of arroz a banda, arroz del señoret, or fideuà, all prepared with rich fish-based broths.
What You Should Definitely Try in Moreira
Even a short stay in the town is worth using as an opportunity to explore local gastronomy. Certain dishes and products are particularly representative of the area.
Rice dishes. In Moreira, rice is not a side dish but a main course. It is cooked slowly and strictly to order, so a waiting time of 30–40 minutes is considered normal. The best choices are arroz a banda and arroz del señoret, where all seafood is already peeled.
Catch of the day. In good restaurants, staff will always inform you about the day’s catch. Common options include sea bream, sea bass, scorpionfish, or red porgy. Fish is typically grilled or baked whole.
Tapas. Despite its resort status, Moreira has preserved the tapas bar culture as a place for socializing. Croquettes, octopus, fried squid, anchovies, and marinated mussels are served without excessive decoration.
Local wines. Wines from the Valencian Community and neighboring regions pair beautifully with seafood dishes. White and rosé wines are particularly popular during the warmer months.
When and Where to Eat
Dining schedules in Moreira follow the classic Spanish rhythm. Lunch usually starts around 1:30 pm and lasts until 3:30–4:00 pm. During this time, many restaurants offer a menú del día — set-price lunch menus that are especially popular with locals.
Dinner starts late, rarely before 8:00 pm. In summer, tables on seaside terraces are in high demand, so reservations are recommended in advance, particularly on weekends and during high season.
For a relaxed aperitif, bars around the port and central streets are ideal. Evenings often begin with a glass of wine or vermouth, gradually transitioning into dinner.
Restaurant El Chamizo
El Chamizo is one of those Moreira restaurants that rarely appears in tourist lists but is well known to long-term residents and wintering expatriates. It is located slightly away from the busiest promenade, which immediately sets a calm, unhurried pace. There is no attempt to impress with trendy presentations — the focus here is on honest cuisine and consistent quality.
Atmosphere: cozy and homely, free from resort bustle. The interior dining room is simply decorated, and the terrace offers pleasant shade even during the hottest months. Guests often linger longer than usual, turning lunch or dinner into a relaxed social experience.
What to order: rice dishes for two, grilled fish of the day, homemade croquettes, and traditional meat dishes. Desserts deserve special attention, as they are prepared following classic recipes.
Contact details:
Address: Ctra. Moraira a Calpe, Km 1.3, 03724 Moraira, Alicante, Spain
Phone: +34 965 74 30 90
Website: elchamizomoraira.com
Google Maps: view on map
Restaurant Le Dauphin
Le Dauphin is a restaurant with a distinct French accent that has held a special place in Moreira’s gastronomic scene for many years. Located right by the sea, it combines elegance, tranquility, and a high level of service. It is a popular choice for special occasions and refined, unhurried dinners.
Atmosphere: restrained and almost intimate. White tablecloths, attentive service, and a sense of privacy even when fully booked. There is no noise here — only quiet conversations and the sound of the sea.
What to order: fresh fish dishes, scallops, fish fillets with classic sauces, and French-style desserts. The wine list is carefully curated and pairs well with the menu.
Contact details:
Address: Calle Puerto Lapice 18, Playa del Portet, 03740 Moraira, Alicante, Spain
Phone: +34 966 49 04 32
Website: ledauphin.com
Google Maps: view on map
Tapas Bar Ca Pepe Tapas
Ca Pepe Tapas is a classic tapas bar in a modern interpretation. Located on one of Moreira’s central streets, it serves as a meeting point for a wide range of guests — from locals to tourists who quickly become regulars.
Atmosphere: lively and welcoming. The clinking of glasses, conversations in multiple languages, and laughter are constant. The terrace is especially popular in the evening when the town comes alive.
What to order: assorted tapas, croquettes, fried squid, ham and cheeses, along with a glass of vermouth or local wine. An ideal place to start the evening.
Contact details:
Address: Calle Haya, 51, 03724 Moraira, Alicante, Spain
Phone: +34 622 74 51 66
Google Maps: view on map
Restaurante Casa Oller
Casa Oller is one of those Moreira restaurants where respect for local gastronomic traditions is evident, without any attempt to cater to mass tourism. Located in the old part of town among narrow streets, it attracts guests with its calm atmosphere and thoughtful approach to cooking. There is no rush here, and the service pace is suited to leisurely lunches and dinners.
Atmosphere: restrained and warm, with the feel of a family-run restaurant. The interior is minimalist, without excessive decoration, allowing guests to focus on food and conversation. Regular patrons returning time and again are a common sight.
What to order: rice dishes cooked to order, seasonal fish, grilled meats, and homemade desserts. Dishes that highlight local ingredients and simple, clear flavors are particularly successful here.
Contact details:
Address: C. Castillo, 22, 03724 Moraira, Alicante, Spain
Phone: +34 623 39 22 16
Website: casaollermoraira.com
Google Maps: view on map
Restaurant Club Náutico
Restaurante Club Náutico is a classic restaurant at Moreira’s yacht club, where gastronomy is closely connected to the maritime theme. It is chosen for its consistent cuisine, direct connection to port life, and views of boats and the sea. This venue is especially popular during daytime hours, when the harbor is full of activity.
Atmosphere: calm and elegant, without ostentatious luxury. The spacious dining room and terrace create a sense of openness, and the clientele is diverse — from yacht owners to travelers looking for an authentic place by the water.
What to order: catch of the day, seafood, classic Valencian rice dishes, and simple wine-friendly appetizers. An excellent choice for lunch with sea views.
Contact details:
Address: C. Puerto de Moraira, s/n, 03724 Moraira, Alicante, Spain
Phone: +34 965 74 43 29
Google Maps: view on map
Restaurant Rincón de Moraira
Rincón de Moraira is a restaurant with a strong local character, focused on traditional Spanish cuisine. Located on one of the town’s central streets, it is often chosen by those who want to eat “like the locals,” without resort-style excess.
Atmosphere: lively but not noisy. The interior is simple and functional, with an emphasis on comfort. You can feel the spirit of a classic Spanish restaurant, where the food — not the décor — takes center stage.
What to order: homemade tapas, meat dishes, fish, daily specials, and desserts. A good option both for a hearty lunch and a relaxed dinner.
Contact details:
Address: Calle del Dr. Calatayud, 28, 03724 Moraira, Alicante, Spain
Phone: +34 966 49 03 60
Website: restaurante.covermanager.com/el-rincon-de-moraira
Google Maps: view on map
Tutto Frutto Ice Cream Shop
Tutto Frutto is a light, informal spot that is perfect for a break between the beach and a stroll around town. It is not a classic restaurant, but rather a dessert café where people stop by for something sweet or refreshing.
Atmosphere: relaxed and resort-like. Guests rarely stay long, but often return several times during their vacation. An excellent place for families with children and for a short daytime stop.
What to order: ice cream, fruit-based desserts, waffles, smoothies, and coffee. A great choice on a hot day.
Contact details:
Address: P.º Senillar, 03724 Moraira, Alicante, Spain
Phone: +34 644 26 62 48
Google Maps: view on map
Restaurant Royal Beach Moraira
Royal Beach Moraira is a restaurant with a clearly resort-oriented concept, located right next to the beach. It is chosen for its convenient location, spacious terrace, and the opportunity to combine beach time with lunch or dinner.
Atmosphere: relaxed and lively, especially during high season. The sound of the sea, conversations, and music create a classic summer mood.
What to order: fish dishes, salads, pasta, simple appetizers, and cocktails. Suitable for a casual lunch or an early dinner after the beach.
Contact details:
Address: Aveniguda de la Paz, 31, 03724 Moraira, Alicante, Spain
Phone: +34 965 74 52 08
Website: menuycarta.es/royalbeach
Google Maps: view on map
Restaurant & Bar The Food Bar by Republic
The Food Bar by Republic is a compact restaurant and bar that has quickly earned a reputation as one of the most interesting gastronomic projects in Moraira. It combines an informal approach, a focus on quality ingredients, and close attention to detail.
Atmosphere: lively and democratic. The space is small, creating a sense of intimacy and engagement. It’s easy to strike up a conversation with neighboring tables or chat with the staff, who are always happy to give recommendations.
What to order: premium burgers, sharing-style appetizers, meat and fish dishes, as well as craft beer and cocktails. A great option for an informal dinner.
Contact details:
Address: Avenida de Madrid, 7, 03724 Moraira, Alicante, Spain
Phone: +34 965 31 64 31
Website: thefoodbarmoraira.com
Google Maps: view on map
Conclusions
Moraira is a rare example of a resort town where gastronomy remains alive and authentic. There is no sense of mass tourism here, and restaurants and bars operate in harmony with the town’s rhythm, respecting traditions and the expectations of regular guests. This is why many establishments do not rely on aggressive marketing, instead focusing on the quality of cuisine, service, and atmosphere.
The gastronomic experience in Moraira is built around the sea, seasonal ingredients, and simplicity. It’s easy to spend an entire day moving from a tapas bar to a restaurant and then finishing the evening in a cozy lounge or cocktail bar. This format is ideal for those who value calmness, flavor, and the absence of hustle.
For travelers, Moraira reveals itself gradually: first through walks along the promenade, then through lunches in family-run restaurants, and finally through evenings in bars where languages, cultures, and tastes blend together. It is precisely this combination that defines the town’s gastronomic value.
