Like most parts of Spanish culture, the local cuisine is a product of centuries of influence and tradition. Roman and Moorish influence produced a savory blend of Mediterranean flavors. The result is the rich local menu that is found in the thousands of cafes and restaurants that dot the city.
Meal Hours
Lunch, which is typically served between two and four in the afternoon, is usually the heartiest meal of the day. Dinner can be much later than Americans and other Europeans are used to as it is often served after ten and sometimes much later.
Spanish people enjoy dining out with friends and family and there is always a restaurant, bodega, or cafe within walking distance. It is not uncommon for locals to sit for hours around the lunch or dinner table enjoying good food and good company.
Andalucian Cuisine
The nearby coast provides seafood of all types, and inland livestock provides the pork and beef that form the other half of Sevillan meat dishes. Andalucia is also the world`s leading producer of olive oil, which forms the base of regional flavor. Garlic and spices from the orient are thrown into the mix to create the unique flavor that defines Southern Spanish cuisine.
Gazpacho
Tomatoes and other vegetables are seasoned with garlic, vinegar, and paprika to make this famous Spanish concoction. This soup-like dish is served cold and is a summer favorite. Try salmorejo, which is a thicker version for those desiring more substance.
Pescaito Frito
Choose from a selection of local seafood including, shrimp, calimari, octopus, sardines, sea bass, and shark. The catch is breaded and fried to make a popular finger food.
Huevos a la Flamenca
Chorizo, or sausage, is added to scrambled eggs and served topped with a tomato sauce.
*Vegetarian note
Vegetables and salads are plentiful and tasty, but almost every dish contains some sort of meat ingredient. Vegetarian restaurants are rare in Sevilla, but supermarkets should have all the vegetables and grains necessary for home cooking. Check out the restaurant list for a few vegetarian options.