Oviedo Asturias, Spain Travel Guide
Asturian cuisine stands out for its high-quality ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and distinct flavors. Its identity comes from the region's agricultural bounty and access to the Cantabrian Sea.
Key ingredients include Fabes (beans), cured meats like Chorizo and Morcilla, high-quality Ternera Asturiana beef, and fresh seafood. Asturias produces over 40 types of cheeses, including Cabrales, Gamoneu, and Afuega'l Pitu. Flavors are often savory, earthy, and rich.
Lunch (Comida) is the most important meal, typically served from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Dinner (Cena) is late, typically from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Many restaurants close between these services.
It is common to order several plates of Tapas (small snacks) or Raciones (larger sharing plates) to distribute among the table. This allows you taste a wider variety of dishes.
In Sidrerías, natural cider is traditionally poured from a height (Escanciado) to aerate it, releasing its flavors and creating a slight fizz. An Escanciador (cider pourer) often does this for you. Do not attempt this yourself without knowing the technique.
A rich, hearty bean stew. Features large white Asturian beans (Fabes), cured pork shoulder (Lacón), Chorizo, Morcilla (Asturian blood sausage), and often Panceta (pork belly). A highly recommended dish to try.
You can find in virtually all traditional Asturian restaurants and Sidrerías.
Two large, thin veal fillets (other meats sometimes used) stuffed with cured ham and cheese (often Cabrales or another Asturian cheese), breaded, and fried. Usually served with french fries and roasted peppers.
Highly popular in Sidrerías and classic restaurants all over the city.
Creamy rice pudding, a classic dessert. Often comes presented with a caramelized sugar crust (Quemado) on top, creating a pleasant texture and flavor contrast.
Widely available in most traditional restaurants and Sidrerías.
In autumn and winter, find street vendors selling warm, roasted chestnuts. A comforting seasonal snack.
Small segments of Empanadas (savory pies) or other savory pastries are in local bakeries (Panaderías).
Oviedo offers a wide range of dining experiences, from casual to upscale.
Known for traditional Asturian cuisine presented with a refined, modern touch.
Offers contemporary interpretations of Asturian classics, overseen by acclaimed chef Nacho Manzano.
Popular for its fresh seafood and traditional Asturian dishes.
Serves classic Asturian fare in a friendly atmosphere.
Excellent for budget-welcoming restaurants. Order Raciones with cider. This results in an affordable full meal.
Perfect for affordable breakfast or afternoon snack (coffee plus pastry).
Central municipal marketplace with certain stalls selling prepared foods, for an informal and affordable lunch.
Small portions of Empanadas (savory pies) or other savory pastries are in local bakeries.
Oviedo's main municipal market. A great spot for local life and food items.
A beautifully renovated market building, mainly for events. Check local listings.
Growing selection of Italian, various Asian, and South American options.
Find alternatives if you desire non-local cuisine.
Popular restaurants fill quickly, especially for dinner or on weekends. Booking a table at a restaurant at a restaurant is advisable for a smooth dining experience.
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. A small amount for good service. If service is included, leaving extra is optional.
Embrace late meal times and shared dishes. The city features a lively food scene, especially in its traditional cider houses.
Engaging in cider pouring at a Sidrería is a unique local tradition. It is a social and sensory experience integral to Asturian culture.
Asturias is proud of its dairy and native produce, visible in the markets. Fresh, regional ingredients form the basis of local cuisine.
Being mindful of gluten-free (Sin gluten) options increases in Spain, especially in larger cities and current establishments.
Communicate your needs clearly. You can say, "Soy celíaco/a" (I am celiac).
For other allergens, use a translation app or a pre-prepared allergy card in Spanish to explain your restrictions.
Whereas some restaurants offer gluten-free dishes, cross-contamination risks can exist in kitchens.
Apps like "HappyCow" can help locate vegan or vegetarian-friendly establishments in Oviedo. Look for web forums or blogs specializing in gluten-free or vegan travel inside Spain.
Be prepared for some limitations, especially in old-style eateries. Oviedo's larger restaurants and modern cafes usually possess more adaptable menus.
Some private chefs or culinary schools in Oviedo offer classes focusing on Asturian cuisine.
Guided walking food tours are available, often focusing on the Old Town and Calle Gascona.
Opportunities exist in the wider Asturian region to visit food producers.
The "Bulevar de la Sidra" is a special dining concept. The experience of shared Raciones and cider, often with friendly banter, is a quintessential Oviedo experience.
A social and sensory immersion into local culture.
Experiencing or observing this classic pouring method is an integral part of Asturian dining. It is a skill and a performance, aerating the cider and contributing to its unique taste.
Embrace this custom to truly participate in the local food scene.
Various local festivals celebrate cider throughout Asturias, often during summer months. Look at local schedules for specific dates and spots.
Oviedo frequently hosts themed gastronomic weeks, focusing on specific goods like mushrooms or local vegetables. These events provide opportunities to sample special menus and dishes.
During the San Mateo Fiestas (mid-September), expect more street food stalls, outdoor dining, and special menus offered by restaurants.
Before your visit, ask local listings and tourist information centers for current food festivals or gastronomic events.
Embrace late meal times and the social aspect of sharing dishes. Do not pour cider yourself unless you understand the technique.
