Top 5 Places to Eat in Santiago de Compostela

Stunning view of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral with people enjoying the sunlit plaza.
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Santiago de Compostela offers a rich and diverse culinary landscape, blending traditional Galician flavors with modern twists, appealing to various palates and budgets.

1. Casa Marcelo

Cuisine: Spanish/Japanese Fusion

Experience a Michelin-starred journey at Casa Marcelo, where the no-menu chef's tasting concept presents a creative fusion of Galician, Japanese, Peruvian, and Mexican influences. The intimate atmosphere features counter seating around an open kitchen, allowing guests to observe the culinary artistry directly. Reservations are essential for this memorable dining experience.

Price: Approximately €90-€150+ per person (tasting menu)

Getting There: Located centrally on Rúa das Hortas, it is easily reachable by foot from the Cathedral area.

2. O Curro Da Parra

Cuisine: Traditional Galician with market-fresh ingredients

Tucked away on a quiet street in the city center, O Curro Da Parra delivers authentic Galician flavors using fresh ingredients sourced from the nearby Mercado de Abastos. The concise menu changes often, showcasing well-executed dishes with simple, elegant presentations. I particularly enjoyed the ham croquettes, scallops (zamburiñas), and the renowned cheesecake. Booking ahead is highly recommended.

Price: €20-€40 per person

Getting There: Found in the historic center, a short walk from the main squares.

3. Taberna O Gato Negro

Cuisine: Traditional Galician seafood and tapas

This legendary, unpretentious tavern is a bustling hub in the old town, celebrated for its generous portions of traditional Galician seafood and tapas. The focus here is entirely on the food, particularly the octopus, which many locals claim is among the best. It's an ideal spot to immerse oneself in authentic local dining culture.

Price: €8-€15 per person (tapas meal)

Getting There: Located on Rua Raina in the historic center, easily accessible on foot.

4. Bar Tita

Cuisine: Classic Spanish tapas, specializing in tortilla

Nestled on Rúa Nova, Bar Tita is famous for its 'tortilla de Betanzos.' This local version of the Spanish omelet is made without onion and boasts a wonderfully gooey, almost liquid center. A generous complimentary slice of this excellent tortilla often accompanies your drink, making it a perfect and budget-friendly stop for an authentic taste of Galicia.

Price: Drinks from €2.50, free tapa with drink

Getting There: Situated in the historic center on Rúa Nova, a short walk from many main attractions.

5. A Horta d'Obradoiro

Cuisine: Modern Galician cuisine with local, seasonal produce

Located near the Cathedral, A Horta d'Obradoiro offers a sophisticated take on traditional Galician dishes. The ambiance is rustic yet refined, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients, many of which are harvested from their own vegetable garden. It provides a cozy and high-quality dining experience, showcasing the region's produce with contemporary flair.

Price: Approximately €40-€70+ per person

Getting There: Found in the city center, just a short walk from Santiago Cathedral.