This restaurant is absolutely worth recommending. The food is fresh, full of flavor, and beautifully prepared . Service is fast, friendly, and always helpful. The menu is clear and well-organized. You can enjoy excellent Spanish dishes at very affordable prices, and it’s a place you’ll want to return to again and again to explore more of the menu. The restaurant itself is stylishly designed and surrounded by a spacious, green garden, which creates a wonderful atmosphere .
Overview
Nestled in the heart of Altea, Alicante, Taberna Del Xef offers a delightful blend of authentic Spanish cuisine with a modern twist. Located on Carrer del Portal Vell, 27, 03590 Altea, Spain, this cozy eatery has become a local favorite for those craving a true taste of Mediterranean flavors. The atmosphere inside the restaurant exudes warmth and charm, making it a perfect spot for both casual dining and special occasions.
The first thing that strikes you when you step into Taberna Del Xef is its inviting ambiance. The rustic décor, with wooden beams and warm lighting, creates a relaxed environment that makes you feel right at home. Whether you're here for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner, the restaurant's setting sets the tone for a memorable dining experience.
One of the standout features of the restaurant is its menu, which is a celebration of traditional Spanish dishes. Each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail, ensuring that you get a genuine taste of Spain. From the moment you sit down, the friendly and knowledgeable staff guides you through the menu, offering recommendations and explaining the ingredients used in each dish.
The highlight of the menu is undoubtedly the seafood, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients making every bite a delight. The grilled octopus is a must-try - tender, perfectly seasoned, and beautifully presented. Another standout dish is the paella, a classic Spanish favorite. Here, Taberna Del Xef takes it up a notch by incorporating seasonal ingredients, making each version of the dish unique. Paired with a glass of locally produced wine, it's the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean.
For those who prefer meat dishes, the restaurant also offers a variety of options, from tender steaks to slow-cooked lamb. One dish that frequently gets rave reviews is the Iberian pork, which is cooked to perfection and served with a rich, flavorful sauce. It's the type of meal that lingers in your mind long after you've finished your plate.
A meal at Taberna Del Xef wouldn’t be complete without indulging in one of their decadent desserts. The traditional Spanish flan is a crowd-pleaser, offering a creamy texture with just the right amount of sweetness. If you're in the mood for something a bit more adventurous, the chocolate mousse with a hint of orange is a refreshing and indulgent treat.
The service at Taberna Del Xef is another reason why diners keep coming back. The staff is attentive and friendly, always ready to provide a personalized experience. Whether you're a regular visitor or a first-time guest, they make you feel like part of the family. The owner, often seen greeting guests with a warm smile, is hands-on in the kitchen, ensuring that every dish meets his high standards. This personal touch makes the experience feel special, and you can tell that the team genuinely cares about your dining experience.
The restaurant's location in Altea adds to its appeal. Situated near the beautiful Mediterranean coast, it’s a great spot to enjoy a meal after a day of exploring the picturesque town. Altea is known for its stunning views and charming streets, and Taberna Del Xef is conveniently located for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal after a day of sightseeing.
In addition to its exceptional food and service, Taberna Del Xef has garnered a reputation for its welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant caters to all kinds of occasions, whether it's a family gathering, a romantic dinner, or a casual meal with friends. Its cozy interior and laid-back vibe make it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy good food in great company.
If you're looking for an authentic Spanish dining experience in Altea, Taberna Del Xef is a must-visit. The combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients, expert cooking techniques, and a welcoming atmosphere ensures that every meal is a memorable one. With its wide variety of dishes and impeccable service, it’s no wonder this gem has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Great beer selection ✓ Great cocktails ✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great wine listPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entranceOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Healthy options ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Quiet ✓ Romantic ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Lunch reservations recommended ✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ High chairsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ ParkingPets
✓ Dogs allowedPhotos
Location
Reviews
Excellent little Taverna in the heart of Altea. Super romantic place perfect for a date night. I recommend the tasting menu, it was plenty of food and it's a wonderful exploration of different Spanish style recipes and local specialties. I was impressed by the salted cod on puff pastry, it was a surprise favorite. Plus, the drinks are fantastic! We loved the beautiful plant-covered terrace and cozy boho vibes. Can't go wrong here.
This little restaurant is a hidden gem and definitely deserves 5 ⭐ Slightly hidden just on the edge of the old town it’s easy to miss but in our humble opinion it’s the best food in Altea!! We stumbled across it, drawn in by the beautiful setting with tumbling trees and fairly lights! We weren’t disappointed…the first visit we went for the 9 course taster menu (an absolute steal at 32 euros a head) and we were blown away!! Better than our local Michelin Star restaurant at home!! So good we returned the following evening and ordered from the tapas menu! Every dish was outstanding and the laid back, chilled out vibe has made it our favourite go to restaurant in Altea!!
We had the shared tapas menu and it was absolutely delicious! Nice view and atmosphere
Stopped in on a whim for lunch around 2pm, kids in tow, and was really surprised by the relaxed and shaded terrace. Not sure what to expect, but the food was FANTASTIC. Really really special, absolutely worth a visit. Tried tapas I hadn’t seen before, like the sobrasada croquette (delicious), buratta salad done really well, plus a very tasty sardine and ricotta bread topped with strawberries and blackened salt… which was the best thing I’ve eaten in years. Great decor inside too, would love to go back at some point
Had dinner with 14 family members and being English there is usually a language barrier that comes with ordering. However the staff helped us and even showed us some Spanish phrases aswell. All the staff were super friendly and the vibe in there was amazing. The food was absolutely wonderful all of the family said so. Honestly best restaurant I’ve been to in altea