The Mediterranean diet was Inscribed in November 2010 on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Although the concept is extended to many products, we must be aware of the term ‘mediterraneo’ which is referring to the agriculture produced on the coast next to this sea. These are characterized by the smallholdings and the diversity of crops, vines, olives and cereals all of which are the main products of the basic and principal food.

Alicante is one of the best examples of the smallholding agriculture which created the originial rich and varied cuisine which is nowadays recognized by worldwide experts. As a result of this success in Alicante, you can find 5 restaurants with Michellin stars and 7 products under protected donomination of origin which are: Vinos Alicante, Uva Embolsada del Vinalopó (bagged grapes) , Turrón de Jijona y Alicante (nougats), Cerezas de la Montaña Alicantina (cherries), Nísperos de Callosa d´Ensarriá (apricots), Bebidas Espirituosas de la Montaña (liquors), Aceites (oils).

Quality brands labeled by the regional government are found here, such as Mollar granada fruit from Elche. There are also very important fishing ports in Santa Pola, Villajoyosa and Denia. Alicante also homes big companies from the agricultural sector which produce vegetables, citrus natural juices, canned foods and spices as well as the famous chocolate and the unique dried salted fish.

The very best of the Mediterranean diet can be found in Alicante and can be tasted in the restaurants across the province.

The wines of Alicante PDO have the main role in the local diet. Drinking is in moderation accompanying all meals which acts as a perfect match against the body´s oxidation, as does the resveratrol and polyphenols from the wine. Furthermore the grapes absorb the long sunlight hours during ripening.

Enjoy the food!