La Taverna del Racó del Pla

La Taverna del Racó del Pla is the city-centre offshoot of the Racó del Pla rice house, on Calle Navas, and it's one of the best places in Alicante to try traditional local cooking without trekking out of the centre. Think of it as the urban, tavern-style version of the original. Rice is the headline. Reviewers rave about the creamy rice with octopus and the rice with veal shank (arroz con pata), which the family is known for, and the paella gets plenty of love too. Around that, there are shrimp fritters, artichokes with foie, croquetas, jamón, white beans with clams, and a cheese and chocolate tart to finish. Start with a vermouth at the bar if you're early. The decor's simple and homely, with a bar area and separate dining rooms, so it handles families and celebrations well. Service is quick and polite, and staff will tell you if you're over-ordering. Prices are fair for the quality. It's popular, so book ahead.