La Rambla
Yes it’s one of Spain’s most successful franchises because of its winning formula. Combine ochre walls and warm coloured woods with the best wines of Green Spain, add literally hundreds of different ‘pintxos’ (tapas on sticks) at low, low prices and it all equals thousands of happy customers and a lively atmosphere.

Portal del Elche
Another of Spain’s popular franchise chains, Entre Tapas y Vinos is a modern version of the all-day Spanish eatery. Open for breakfasts, brunches, lunches and all the other meals to take us to supper, the cool air-conditioned interior is a relaxing respite from the heat of summer days.

Calle Rafeal Altamira
The most stylish of all Alicante’s tapas bars, the Senzone is a relaxing fusion of modern décor, traditional cuisine and surprisingly affordable prices. Eat at the bar, outside in the covered courtyard or more formally in the restaurant in this converted convent building

Calle San Fernando
Like many Basque style tapas bars, eating in the Barra Igeldo is an informal relaxed affair. Specialising in fish and seafoods ‘para picar’ to pick, diners only have to point at the little dishes or pintxos (tapas on cocktail sticks) and voila, they’re on the plate. The bar is a great place to eat and meet and particularly good for solo travellers.

Calle Major
As typically tapas as it gets. This friendly little place is just so Spanish, so just draw up a chair and join the many families dining here on gazpacho, squid, black rice and tapas which are made freshly to order. For a giant meal at a mini-price try the €9 menu of the day which also includes wine.

Calle Labradores
Small, busy and with typical Spanish décor, tiles, wrought iron and hanging lamps from the old days. The name of this tapas place means ‘labourers bar’ and its aim is to satisfy the heartiest appetite with good simple food at a price we all can afford. It’s a taste of the real Spain and an authentic atmosphere to boot!

Esplanada de Espana
This little café bar is the perfect place to sit and watch the mass exodus from the beach on a summer’s evening when a range of fish tapas is offered from around 3 euros. Also open during the day, it’s great for a mid morning coffee whilst you watch the hustle and bustle of the Esplanada.

Plaza Del Gabriel Miro
A friendly bar and a must for boxing fans. The owner is the son of the great Marcel Cerdon (who the bar is named after) who was the World Champion when he defended his title against Jack Lamotta in Madison Square Garden in 1948. Unfortunately he lost in the 10th round and on his way to try and regain his title in 1949 – his plane crashed.
During the day there’s a well-priced 3-course meal or you can snack on a platter of French pate and cheese. Sit inside and look at the boxing paraphernalia or outside on the sunny square

Marina, summer only.
A very stylish bar that offers snacks and drinks throughout the day. Sit inside the glass walls or outside on the sunny terrace, either way you will get a fabulous view of the marina. The bar is particularly popular in the early evenings with people stopping by for an aperitif before eating in the numerous fish restaurants on the marina complex.

Panoramis Complex
This is Alicante’s exclusive & private sailing club. However in the public restaurant you can enjoy tapas and main meals, or alternatively order coffee and take in the nautical comings and goings