The winning tapa, 'Bajo el manto', consists of pearly flaked cod over a chickpea cream, evoking the Lenten stew, with a subtle contrast of black garlic aioli, toasted chickpeas, and a touch of sesame and umami. This dish has been the public's favorite for the second consecutive year.
The second prize went to Pipirrana Vermut for its 'Oreja cofrade al vermut alicantino', a very thinly sliced and crispy baked ear. Third place was awarded to El Dragón Escamado for its 'Tapa del penitente', which includes a wheat capirote filled with homemade fried chicken, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and Caesar sauce, accompanied by french fries.
“"The great participation in the competition continues to grow with an exceptional level and quality. The tapas represent the balance between tradition and innovation, made with the best local produce and the talent of our chefs."
The Councillor for Hospitality and Commerce, Lidia López, presented the three awards for the best tapas of this seventh edition, in which 17 restaurants participated. The event was held at the Casa del Mediterráneo and was also attended by the president of the Provincial Association of Hospitality Entrepreneurs of Alicante, and the president of the Major Board of Holy Week.
The owner of the Insensato Vermú restaurant and its chef, were selected with 43.1% of the citizens' votes. The second prize winner, with 17.5% of the votes, had already secured a second place in the 2025 edition. The third prize winner, with 12.8%, is the owner and chef of the El Dragón Escamado restaurant.
The president of APHEA highlighted the effort and dedication of the hospitality sector, emphasizing Alicante as a source of recipes, talent, and gastronomic culture. In addition to the main awards, other recognitions were given, such as gift cards from the Municipal Markets of Alicante and local product baskets.
