The 5 best gastronomic experiences in Empordà
The Empordà is a top-level gastronomic destination, where tradition and innovation merge to offer unforgettable experiences. Its culinary richness comes from a combination of local ingredients, ancestral recipes, and the strong influence of both the sea and the mountains. From local markets to culinary festivals, this corner of Catalonia is a paradise for food lovers. Here we present five essential experiences to savor the authentic Empordà.
1. Taste the Garoinada in Calella de Palafrugell
La Garoinada is one of the most emblematic gastronomic traditions of the Empordà. It takes place in Calella de Palafrugell between January and March and is dedicated to sea urchins (garoines). During this festival, local restaurants offer special menus with fresh sea urchins, accompanied by typical regional products such as tomato bread and local cured meats. It is a unique opportunity to try one of the Mediterranean’s most prized delicacies, with its unmistakable taste of the sea. If you’re interested in discovering other culinary celebrations, don’t miss these festivals and traditions of the Empordà.
2. Visit local markets and taste authentic products
The Empordà’s markets are a must for those who want to experience the region’s produce. In towns such as La Bisbal d’Empordà, Torroella de Montgrí, and Palafrugell, you’ll find artisan cheeses, traditional cured meats, and a wide variety of local fruits and vegetables. Strolling through these markets is a sensory experience that reveals the aromas and flavors defining Empordà’s cuisine.
In addition to fresh produce, many markets feature small producers offering honey, olive oils, and wines with Empordà Designation of Origin. Talking to the vendors, who often share recipes and culinary tips, makes the visit even more enriching.
3. Enjoy a Michelin-starred dinner
The Empordà is home to some of the best restaurants in Catalonia, including several with Michelin stars. Places like Bo.TiC in Corçà or Els Tinars in Llagostera offer signature cuisine that reinterprets Catalan culinary tradition with a modern approach. These establishments combine cutting-edge techniques with local products, creating dishes that impress both for their flavor and presentation. If you want to plan your gourmet getaway, get inspired by this guide on where to eat in the Empordà.
4. Wine tasting in an Empordà winery
The DO Empordà is one of Catalonia’s most prestigious designations of origin. With a winemaking tradition dating back to Roman times, this region produces high-quality wines known for their personality and balance. Empordà wineries offer guided tours with tastings of wines made from native varieties such as Garnacha and Cariñena, appreciated for their intense, fruity flavor.
Recommended wineries include Mas Oller in Torrent and Castell de Peralada in Peralada, where visitors can not only taste wines but also learn about the winemaking process and enjoy pairings with local products. For more information, check out the best wineries for wine tourism in the Empordà.
5. Discover traditional cuisine in a Catalan masia
Restored masias offer a unique gastronomic experience, where traditional dishes are served in a rustic and welcoming setting. These spaces preserve the charm of Catalan rural architecture and allow you to taste recipes handed down from generation to generation.
In these rural restaurants you’ll often find dishes such as suquet de peix, arroz caldoso (brothy rice), butifarra with beans, stuffed squid, and snails a la llauna. The quality of the ingredients is key, as they typically come from local producers who maintain traditional farming and breeding methods.
At Encís d’Empordà, in addition to exclusive accommodation, you’ll discover the region’s authentic flavors, with cuisine that respects the essence of Empordà gastronomy. Dining in a masia means immersing yourself in the history and culture of the Empordà, enjoying lovingly prepared dishes served in a warm, family atmosphere.
Exploring the gastronomy of the Empordà is about more than food: it’s a way to understand the history, culture, and passion of a region that has preserved its culinary identity over the centuries. Whether savoring fresh seafood at a festival, strolling through markets full of local products, enjoying fine dining, or discovering local wines, every experience enriches both the palate and the soul.
Which of these experiences would you like to enjoy on your next visit to the Empordà?