If you’re heading to Benidorm and want to skip the usual tourist traps in favour of local-favourite spots, here are three places to check out that many visitors miss — or don’t give quite enough attention to.
1. Tapas Alley (Calle Santo Domingo & nearby streets, Old Town)
Why it’s special:
- This cluster of narrow streets in the Old Town (sometimes simply called “Tapas Alley”) is packed with small, traditional tapas bars where locals hang out.
- The atmosphere is far more authentic than the beach-front tourist restaurants: expect lively chatter, poured wine, small plates of seafood, anchovies, cod in garlic sauce, etc.
- As one blogger put it: this is “where Old Spain still thrives” in Benidorm.
Tips:
- Arrive early for dinner (say 19:30) to snag a table — these bars fill up quickly with locals.
- Be a little adventurous: ask the server what la especialidad de la casa (house specialty) is — you’ll likely get something fresh, seasonal.
- Avoid sitting right on the main tourist drag; head a street or two inwards for better value and authenticity.
2. Restaurante Ulia (Playa de Poniente)
Why it stands out:
- Located in the quieter Playa de Poniente area (rather than the more crowded Levante beach), Ulia is described as “a long-standing local favourite … known for its expertly prepared rice dishes”.
- Their version of arroz a banda or seafood paella is singled out as “one of the nicest I have ever eaten”.
- It offers a more refined yet relaxed dining experience compared with many tourist-oriented venues.
Tips:
- If you go for rice dishes (paella or arroz), try to go before 15:00 or request in advance — these dishes often take longer to prepare.
- Sit with a sea-view if you can: the location in Poniente gives a more peaceful setting.
- Ask for recommendations: the house may offer local catches of the day.
3. La Cava Aragonesa (Plaza de la Constitució 2, Old Town)
Why it’s worth a visit:
This is another local-approved spot deep in the Old Town, known for authentic tapas and wine rather than big tourist menus.
A great option if you want to sample a variety of tapas in one go without jumping between many bars — the setting is comfortable and friendly.
Tips:
Try pairing a good regional wine with a tapa; the ambience is relaxed enough to linger and chat.
Check out what’s on offer for that day (there may be specials based on fresh produce).
Because it’s lesser-known among heavy tourists, it might feel more “real” and less pressured.
