Where to eat in Cordoba: The best restaurants in the city

Today we’re going to focus on the gastronomic culture we can enjoy and where to eat in Córdoba. There are many questions and curiosities that we, as tour guides and heritage interpreters, face from tourists while leading our Free Tours in Córdoba, but without a doubt the ones I consider most common are: Where can you eat well in Córdoba? What are the typical dishes we simply can’t miss? And yes, today I’m speaking from the point of view of a local guide, but it’s obvious that we all like to arrive at any destination and know the best spots to enjoy authentic local cuisine with the most traditional flavors.

That’s why I’m going to recommend—or at least suggest, from a very personal opinion—the best restaurants and taverns so that when you leave Córdoba, you’ll be enchanted not only by its historical and heritage culture, but also by the excellent taste of its signature dishes. Grab a notebook and don’t forget these tips so you don’t miss a thing!

First of all, I must say that eating in Córdoba is quite affordable, so enjoying a good lunch or dinner without breaking the bank is guaranteed. It’s true that the historical and intercultural heritage surrounding Córdoba is reflected in its dishes, so you can find a wide range of offerings—traditional, Sephardic, or halal (Arab)—but to make it easier, here are some of the typical dishes no one should miss. Here’s my list of the essentials:

A must-try when you come to Córdoba is this delicious delicacy, which has become the city’s most famous traditional dish. Tomato, bread, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil combine to create a tomato cream that is usually served topped with diced ham—preferably Iberian—and hard-boiled egg.

It used to be a recipe made mainly in the summer months because it’s so refreshing, but today you can find it any time of year.

Those original ingredients make up the classic recipe, but as you wander through Córdoba you can find countless variations—corn salmorejo, beetroot salmorejo, mushroom and truffle salmorejo, and even pistachio salmorejo, among many others.

If salmorejo is one of the most typical dishes, oxtail stew is equally famous and sought-after by visitors to Córdoba. The city’s bullfighting tradition has led to some of the best restaurants here specializing in this dish.

For me, it’s one of the hardest dishes to make at home, both because the meat can be hard to find and because it needs to be cooked just right—tender enough that the meat falls off the bone easily, leaving the vertebrae clean. That’s why I always recommend trying it at a place experienced in its preparation.

Oxtail stew began gaining popularity in the late 18th century when the tails of bullfighting cattle were used. Today, because fighting bull meat is highly prized, you often find it made with beef or ox tail. The dish is served with a dark sauce and a side—either French fries or chestnuts.

Many people hesitate to try it because it’s an unfamiliar cut or seems too gelatinous, but on this trip, don’t let any reservations stop you from savoring this true culinary art.

Yes, whenever we talk about Cordoban cuisine, we end up speaking about the famous flamenquines—and it’s not just repetition or lack of creativity. The reason I recommend it is that it’s a unique local specialty.

Countless tourists ask me: Why are flamenquines so famous? Isn’t it just ham and cheese like a San Jacobo? My answer is always the same: Nothing could be further from the truth! Cordoban flamenquín is a dish you must try. It consists of a thin pork fillet that’s stuffed and wrapped with a mixture of bacon and cured ham—sometimes acorn-fed Iberian.

The fillet is rolled into a tube, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried. It can be heavy, and because of the mix of meat, bacon, and ham, it can be a bit dry and salty. Personally, I sometimes order the “serranito,” which also includes green pepper, giving it extra juiciness and flavor. Flamenquín is typically served with mayonnaise, French fries, and coleslaw—a common accompaniment in local cuisine.

If you try a perfectly fried flamenquín, I’m sure you’ll not only have seconds but will recommend it to everyone visiting Córdoba.

Another staple that almost never misses my table. Eggplant originates from India, but it was the Arabs who introduced it to the peninsula, along with molasses. In various taverns, it’s served either in strips or slices; likewise, cane honey is sometimes drizzled over it, while other places provide it on the side so you can add as much or as little as you like.

To me, the secret of Cordoban eggplant lies in the batter, giving the eggplant perfect texture and crunch, while the honey—often sourced from the village of Frigiliana in Málaga—does the rest.

This oddly named fish—called “palometa” elsewhere in Spain—is another Cordoban specialty. If you feel uneasy ordering it because of its name, don’t worry: “japuta” comes from the Arabic šabbúṭa, its name centuries ago, and no waiter will bat an eye when you ask for it.

This fish can be served grilled, in soup, or in paella, but the most characteristic and traditional way is fried.

The fish is marinated for hours in an “adobo” (vinegar, salt, garlic, oil, bell pepper, lemon, and oregano), then coated and fried in small cubes, resulting in a juicy interior and a crispy exterior.

Perhaps after all that savory food you’ll ask: Who doesn’t love a sweet treat? If that’s you, don’t leave the city without trying its most famous dessert: the pastel cordobés. If you love angel hair jam, you’re in luck: this is a puff pastry tart filled with that sweet.

Once baked, it’s dusted with powdered sugar before serving. As a tip, I encourage you to enjoy it with a glass of Montilla-Moriles D.O. wine—a local designation of origin you won’t forget.

Strolling through the city—especially if you join one of our Free Tours in Córdoba—you’ll find countless taverns and restaurants offering traditional fare at great prices. Most places have outdoor seating—Córdoba enjoys pleasant weather for much of the year, so dining al fresco is a pleasure. That said, if you visit in summer, I honestly recommend finding an indoor spot with good air conditioning.

You won’t see many fixed “daily menus” here; it’s more common to order sharing plates for the table. I always advocate ordering a variety of full or half portions so you can taste more dishes—and portions are generous, making it very cost-effective.

To make your stay even easier and maximize your Córdoba experience, here are my top restaurant picks to enjoy all the dishes I’ve recommended.

When it comes to traditional Cordoban taverns, Casa Salinas is one of the best in terms of quality and price. Located in the heart of the historic center near Plaza de la Corredera, it’s a favorite among locals.

Portions are very generous and extremely affordable—no dish costs more than €12. The tavern features a courtyard decorated in true Cordoban style where you can sit and dine.

I recommend trying their eggplant with honey, salmorejo, or flamenquín, and the famous orange and cod salad. If you have limited time in the city, this is one of the first places I’d book. However, on holidays or long weekends, be sure to reserve in advance, as it fills up quickly.

Just a few meters from Taberna Salinas—right opposite one corner of Plaza de la Corredera—you’ll find this charming tavern. It has a very traditional atmosphere and excellent service. I particularly love this spot because it’s in a restored house with several dining rooms upstairs where the bedrooms once were.

Prices are also very reasonable, and you can order full or half portions. Their menu includes all the typical dishes, but I especially recommend their battered cod—it’s the best in the city. Their pijotas and pork tenderloin bites are also delicious. Great location, exquisite service, and tasty food—be sure to add it to your list.

Both of these restaurants are just a two-minute walk from Plaza de la Corredera, where our Historic Center Free Tour ends.

A modern restaurant near the Roman Temple, El Astronauta offers a concise but diverse menu—from traditional sharing plates to sandwiches, burgers, and vegetarian dishes. Everything can be ordered in half portions, making it perfect for those who love to sample and share.

Highlights include their chickpea hummus and mushroom scramble with foie gras. If you’re looking for a more casual yet delicious and affordable meal, this is your spot.

Both eateries are located in the unique neighborhood of San Basilio (Alcázar Viejo), famed for its Cordoban patios. Among its whitewashed streets and fragrant flower pots, you’ll find two more restaurants serving traditional local fare at great prices.

On my Patios of Córdoba Tour, someone always asks, “Where can you eat well in this neighborhood?” I think it’s because of the charm of its streets and the inviting aromas of home-cooked stews. Everyone wants to stop and dine here at least once.

Mesón San Basilio is especially known for its award-winning oxtail stew and homemade croquettes. At Taberna La Viuda, you’ll find one of the best flamenquines in Córdoba and outstanding fried palometa in adobo. If you’re exploring the history and monuments of the historic center, these are ideal stops for a hearty, homemade meal before continuing your stroll—don’t forget the patios of San Basilio!

In the heart of the Jewish Quarter, you can’t miss Casa Pepe de la Judería. It’s the priciest of my recommendations—but still fair—for the unique culinary experience it offers.

The location is unbeatable, and inside you’ll see the house’s original 1899 architecture, complete with a central courtyard and period rooms. My favorite spot is the terrace overlooking the Mosque-Cathedral Tower.

It’s hard to pick a favorite dish—everything I’ve tasted here has been exquisite.

If I had to recommend something, don’t miss the salmorejo, the oxtail croquettes, or the Iberian secreto steak.

And if you’re a wine lover, their extensive list showcases flavors from the Córdoba region. Good wine, excellent service, and stunning views of the Mosque-Cathedral make this a perfect dining choice.

Looking for a quick tapas stop? In Córdoba, free tapas with drinks aren’t very common, but there are several places where you can choose your tapa for a small extra charge.

One of the most famous and sought-after spots. You can’t miss it—first, because it’s right next to the Mosque-Cathedral, and second, because you’ll see the long lines out front. Those queues are for their enormous potato omelettes.

It’s a strategic spot for a quick snack while exploring the monumental area, but not for a full meal. You enjoy your tortilla pincho or salmorejo tapas outside the bar, right by the mosque, and prices are reasonable for the prime location.

After our Mosque-Cathedral Tour, it’s the perfect time to take a break, try the omelette, and recharge before continuing your heritage adventure.

Andalusia’s first gastronomic market is located in the Victoria Gardens, just a five-minute walk from both the historic center and main attractions. Housed in the former Caseta del Círculo de la Amistad—a late 19th-century iron structure used during the Córdoba Fair—it’s a very attractive spot.

Right outside is the bus stop to the Medina Azahara archaeological site, so if you plan the guided tour, it’s an ideal place for a pre-trip snack. It’s also next to the Roman funerary monuments where our Subterranean Córdoba Free Tour begins—plenty of reasons to visit this gastronomic corner.

Prices here are a bit higher than elsewhere, but you’ll find over 30 stalls offering everything from fresh produce to ready-to-eat dishes.

Of all the food stalls, I’d highlight La Salmoreteca, where you can sample countless variations of traditional salmorejo.

If you fancy a cocktail or a glass of wine in the evening, the upper area and terrace are perfect for a relaxed drink.

In the heart of Córdoba, on Plaza de las Tendillas, you’ll find Campero Pan & Fusión. Surrounding the plaza are many tapas bars and franchises, but I always recommend stopping at Campero.

After our Night Tour of Córdoba, most people ask, “Where should we go for tapas or dinner at this hour?” I point them here—and many tourists end up joining me because I believe it’s the best spot for beers or wines with a variety of tapas.

The bar is small, so you’ll likely have to enjoy your beer in the plaza (most tapas and beers in Córdoba are enjoyed outdoors). If you want to pair your tapa with a sandwich or burger, this is the place. I recommend the oxtail sandwich and the “campero” sandwich (spiced bread, roasted meat, tomato, and lettuce).

The last spot I recommend is where our Historic Center Free Tour ends—and for good reason: Plaza de la Corredera.

When you arrive, you’ll see the only Castilian-style square in Andalusia. Dating from the 17th century, it has served various roles, including as a bullring. Today, its arcades house numerous bars with terraces for tapas and sharing plates.

There’s a great variety of bars offering all kinds of food, tapas, and rations, so you’re sure to find something you love.

Plaza de la Corredera is a must-visit and a perfect spot to experience Córdoba’s charm.

As a market enthusiast, I also suggest visiting the Sánchez Peña Market, located in the former town hall right on the plaza. You’ll see where locals do their daily shopping—fresh produce, meats, vegetables, and fish. Inside, Café Bar La Plaza grills whatever fresh ingredients you buy at the market.

As you can see, there are plenty of places to enjoy Córdoba’s typical and traditional cuisine—whether tapas or a more formal meal—at very reasonable prices. Now we just await your visit; not knowing where to eat is no excuse not to come and explore our city. I hope you enjoy all these recommendations!