Savoring Sevilla: Where to Stay and Eat in the Andalusian Capital

About the food

The food in Sevilla is unmistakably Spanish, yet deeply enriched by Moorish influences. Ingredients like almonds, chickpeas, eggplant and warm spices such as cumin and cinnamon are staples in many dishes. However, the two culinary cornerstones are jamón ibérico – an acorn-fed cured ham that melts in your mouth – and exceptional olive oil. As the world’s largest producer, Spain infuses nearly every dish with olive oil, often showcasing its fruity, peppery complexity.

Famous Sevilla orange tress in the cathedral's courtyard

Where to eat in Sevilla

Jamón ibérico thinly sliced to perfection

• Bar Santa Marta – Start your morning like a Sevillano with a traditional Spanish breakfast under fragrant orange trees in the peaceful Plaza de San Andrés. You can’t go wrong with pan con tomate and cafe con leche.

• Taberna Álvaro Peregil – Located a few streets away from the towering cathedral is Alvaro Pergil, a great local hole in the wall that's easy to pass if you’re not paying attention. Serving a simple tasty snack of thinly cut pork belly, flaky sea salt and rich olive oil. It is usually accompanied by a vermouth on draft

• Casa Morales – A modern spin on classic Spanish flavors, served in a stylish, contemporary setting. Great for both foodies and design lovers. Try the staple of espinacas con garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas) and the chilled tomato soup salmorejo.

• Bodeguita Reyes de Antonio Romero – A bustling favorite among locals and visitors alike. Try the jamón ibérico, the famous pringá sandwich, and wash it all down with a cold caña of Cruzcampo beer. This, for me, although simple, was the best dining experience during my time in Sevilla

• Casa Cuesta – Rustic Andalusian cooking at its finest. Don’t miss the braised pork cheeks called Carrillada braised in rich Pedro Ximénez sherry – comfort food with deep local roots. A very old-school bar with an interior laced by moorish mosaic tiles, a common theme in Sevilla

• Paco Gongora – This bar feels quintessentially Spanish, with walls adorned with photos of matadors and mounted bull heads. But the real highlight is their giant croquetas – crispy on the outside, and oozing with ham and cheese inside

• Las Teresas – Another traditional tapas bar with jamón hanging from the celling. Stand at the counter like you belong and as the locals do. Remember to take your time and savor the atmosphere. There is never a rush when it comes to eating in Sevilla

• La Antigua Abacería – A beloved spot among locals in the charming Triana neighborhood. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing sherry tasting, complemented by a warm, inviting atmosphere and delicious food that captures the essence of Sevilla. Andalucia is the capital of sherry production. Many bodegas are only an hour's drive away and make for great day trips

• Bodega de La Mezquita (Bodegas Fundador) – If you're eager to dive deeper into the world of sherry, consider a day trip to Jerez, just an hour south by car. As the world's largest producer of sherry, Jerez offers an immersive experience – from vineyard tours to guided tastings. Bodega Fundador is especially popular for its impressive scale and old-world charm, with towering stacks of oak casks stretching from floor to ceiling.

• Mercado de Triana – Situated at the foot of the Puente de Isabel II Bridge, this vibrant market offers everything from fresh produce and seafood to jamón and local specialties. It’s a fantastic place to explore and sample the flavors of Sevilla.

A beautiful sunset as you start your tapas crawl

• Siesta time is real – From 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., many shops, restaurants and services will close for the afternoon siesta. Be sure to plan your day around it – make sure you've had breakfast and lunch, and stock up on anything you might need before everything shuts down. Even pharmacies tend to close during these hours.

• Sevilla is hot – The heat can be intense and overwhelming, especially in the summer. Be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat for protection. If it gets too hot, seek shelter in the narrow streets, where locals often hang sheets to block out the sun’s harsh rays.

• Have confidence when ordering food. Practice your Spanish beforehand. These restaurants get very busy and are full of locals who want to place their order fast.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Sevilla page.