Tucked away on a charming pedestrian street in Valencia’s historic centre, just steps from the iconic cathedral, Xanglot Restaurant is a hidden gem that perfectly blends modern culinary artistry with traditional Valencian roots. Its location in the heart of the old town contrasts with the contemporary yet informal dining space inside, where every detail – from the stylish décor to the personalised crockery that has been meticulously considered. This restaurant focuses on creativity, local produce, and a dining experience that will leave you wanting more.
Award-winning restaurant Xanglot champions a forward-thinking culinary approach under the direction of head chef Sandra Jorge and her small, all-female team. Together, they have created a distinctive, modern dining concept centred around seasonal Spanish ingredients. Fish from a nearby fishmongers, vegetables from nearby farms, and other regional delights are carefully selected to bring the freshest, highest-quality produce to each plate. The menu adapts to what’s in season, with four major changes per year ensuring that guests are always treated to something new and exciting.
The restaurant’s commitment to creativity and contrast is evident in its two carefully curated lunch and dinner tasting menus. Each menu is a culinary journey through a variety of textures, flavours, and techniques, allowing diners to fully immerse themselves in the chef’s vision. We opted for the lunch set menu, which can be upgraded with wine pairings for an extra layer of indulgence.
The meal began with a series of innovative canapés that set the tone for what was to come. Standout bites included a delicate prawn custard, a brioche bun filled with goat’s cheese and smoked mackerel pearls, and a homemade vegan sobrasada, accompanied by Xanglot’s interpretation of a Bloody Mary. For the starters, the cauliflower dish was a real triumph, with a harmony of textures and flavours that impressed the palate. The Esgarraet with cod necks was another favourite, highlighting the freshness and quality of the local fish, while the lamb stew with Valencian garrofo beans showcased the depth of flavours and skill in execution.
When it comes to the main course, no trip to Valencia would be complete without sampling paella, and Xanglot delivers a unique take on this iconic dish. Chef Jorge has created a fish paella featuring grilled ray fish paired with pickled hazelnuts, black garlic, and salted caramel – a daring yet balanced combination that highlights her creative genius. This dish pushes the boundaries of traditional Valencian cuisine while honouring its roots, and the result is nothing short of spectacular.
The dessert course was the perfect finale to the meal, with the standout being the “Collaret” – a playful creation of peanuts, toffee, and banana cream. The ice cream, cleverly shaped like monkey nuts, was both whimsical and delicious, making it one of the most memorable desserts we’ve had in a long time. The presentation and attention to detail throughout the meal were superb, with each dish a visual and culinary masterpiece.
The atmosphere at Xanglot is as much a part of the experience as the food itself. The fresh, contemporary décor, with its clean lines and modern touches, creates an inviting space where guests can relax and focus entirely on the meal. The attention to detail extends beyond the dining room; thoughtful touches, like toothbrushes in the bathrooms for post-dining freshening up, show the restaurant’s commitment to guest comfort and care.
Xanglot elevates the dining experience further with its personalised crockery, handmade to complement each dish served. This extra touch enhances the overall presentation and adds a layer of intimacy and refinement to the meal. The restaurant’s minimalistic yet stylish design, paired with its cosy, intimate setting, makes it the perfect destination for those who appreciate fine dining with a creative twist.
Under Sandra Jorge’s creative guidance, Xanglot sets itself apart from other restaurants in Valencia. Her ability to push culinary boundaries while staying true to Valencian traditions creates an exciting dining experience that is both innovative and grounded. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply someone looking to indulge in a top-tier dining experience, Xanglot is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Valencia.
Xanglot, C/ de les Avellanes, 9, Ciutat Vella, 46003 València
