Gastronomy
The most traditional gastronomy of Santander is that based on marine products. The fish and shellfish of the Cantabrian Sea are known for their quality and freshness and many restaurants have a wide variety on the menu.
However, if there is one thing that characterises Cantabrian gastronomy it is its variety. In any restaurant of the city you can enjoy the best local produce. Whatever your taste, in Santander you will find what you are looking for: local cheeses, veal, and of course the famous rabas or calamari slices. You cannot leave Santander without having eaten a delicious plate of the star dish of our gastronomy.
Markets
To really get to know the key foods of our gastronomy you have to go to our markets. In these historical places you will get to know local produce at first hand.
La Esperanza Market
Located behind the Town Hall, this modernist building designed by the architects Reynals and Moya is striking owing to its structure of stone, iron, and glass. It has been open since 1904 and has been reformed several times; it is currently one of the largest food markets of Cantabria.
The ground floor contains the fish stalls, while on the upper floor you will find the butcher’s shops and the fruit and vegetable stalls, all you need for a high-class menu.
Don’t worry if you’ve forgotten to buy something, because on the Plaza de la Esperanza on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 9:00 to 14:00 hours agricultural products are sold, while on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at the same time you will find a wide variety of clothing and footwear.
Del Este Market
Located in the centre of Santander between the Plaza Porticada and the Plaza Pombo, this market was designed by A. Zabaleta and built in 1842. With this project Zabaleta introduced the concept of a “shopping mall” into Spain for the first time as the building has inner galleries for the housing of business premises. After a major restoration it currently offers a wide range of restaurants, specialised shops, and even an exhibition hall.
México Municipal Market
Located on the plaza of the same name, it was opened in 1985 and its 2,250 m2 contain a large variety of products in 32 stalls.
This plaza also holds a street market from 9:00 to 14:00 hours, which sells agricultural produce on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays and clothing and footwear on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Gastronomic Areas
Santander offers a wide range of gastronomic possibilities that will satisfy everyone: seafaring pubs, traditional bars, places to order a set menu or sample tapas at popular prices, and restaurants with the most exclusive fare.
You will find seven gastronomic areas:
Castilla-Hermida- Barrio Pesquero: In this area you will find bars in which time seems to have stood still. It is the favourite of many locals for sampling produce from the sea or enjoying a good plate of rice.
Vargas-San Fernando-Burgos: These streets hold bars, wine cellars, and restaurants to suit all tastes.
Calderón de la Barca: This area is ideal either for nibbles or a set menu.
Plaza Porticada-Pombo: An area for enjoying a peaceful atmosphere that is known for its tapas.
Cañadío-Puertochico: A large number of streets offering a wide choice of restaurants.
El Sardinero: For those who want to enjoy a good meal with incredible views.
La Maruca, San Román y Cueto: Charming spots where you can enjoy good fish and shellfish.
