As you might expect from its location by the sea, many of the typical dishes from Cadiz are based on freshly caught seafood. Here are some of the dishes typical of the region that we recommend you try while you are there.

1. Fried fish – pescaíto frito

Literally meaning small bits of fried fish, this is one of the most popular dishes in Cádiz. It is usually made with fresh fish caught in the sea, such as sardines, anchovies or mackerel and squid. The fish is fried in extra virgin olive oil and served with a slice of lemon. Fried fish is usually eaten in the form of a tapa or small plate. Although it originated in Cádiz, it is a dish that you will find in most tapas bars around the country.

2. Marinated dogfish – cazón en adobo

One of the most typical dishes of Cádiz is dogfish in a marinade of white wine, vinegar, salt and pepper. It is usually served with boiled potatoes and a salad of tomatoes and onions.

3. Shrimp fritters – tortillitas de camarones

These little bites are made with a batter of wheat flour, chickpea flour, water, onion, parsley, shrimp, salt and pepper. The batter is then fried on both sides in a pan with plenty of olive oil. They are usually served with a dip of aioli or mayonnaise as a side dish.

4. Potatoes with cuttlefish – Papas con chocos

Cuttlefish is very popular in Spain. If you have never tried it before, this is a great way to enjoy its delicious flavour. It has a mild flavour and firm texture. This dish is either served as a main dish with a simple salad of lettuce, tomato and onion, or as a side dish on its own.

5. Fried sea anemones – ortiguillas fritas

Again, probably something that you might not have tried before, these sea anemones are coated in flour, deep fried and served with a dipping sauce. They can be found on the rocks and sea bed, their long tentacles swinging in the currents like grass. Once fried, they are crispy on the outside and chewy inside with an intense seafood flavour.

6. Potaje de tagarninas – Tagarnina stew

Tagarninas are a type of turnip that are native to the province of Cádiz This dish is made with vegetable broth, chickpeas, tagarninas and chard. It is usually eaten in winter and served with a drizzle of olive oil and a slice of bread. If you find yourself in Cádiz during the winter months, be sure to try this delicious stew!

7. Chicken thighs – pollo a la canilla

This dish consists of chicken cooked in a sauce made with garlic, olive oil, white wine, and roasted red peppers. It is typical of the province and is usually served with potatoes and green beans.

8. Pestiños

Pestiños are small fried sweet fritters, usually made with flour, sugar and anise liquor. They are of Moorish origin and are usually served with a honey and cinnamon sauce. They are eaten typically around Christmas and Easter, with the topic of conversation often turning to whether they are better covered in honey or sprinkled with sugar.

9. Gañotes of Ubrique

One of the most typical desserts of Cádiz is the Gañotes de Ubrique, originating from a small mountain village in the province. They are small sponge cakes, soaked in syrup and filled with cream and are also typically eaten at Easter. An annual competition is held in the village of Ubrique to find the person who makes the best Gañotes, usually just before Easter, but luckily they can also be bought in most cake shops.

10. Cadiz turron – pan de Cadiz

Although in Spanish this is called bread (pan), it resembles more the traditional sweet turron or marzipan cake that is found all over Spain around Christmas time. It is made with almonds and sugar, filled with pieces of candied fruit and crystallized pumpkin formed into a special shape resembling a chest.