If you were to choose your Camino based on the food?

[ivar]

What Camino would you walk?

 

[Kanga]

The Norte. Without hesitation! I love the food along the Camino Francés once away from the dreaded Pilgrim Menu, but the variety on the Norte was spectacular. We also found the Norte the most generous and creative with the free little nibbles or tapas that came with drinks.

 

[dougfitz]

Well, it would have to start in Andalusia, so the Via de la Plata. But I would regret not starting in Valencia as well, or Catalonia, or even the Basque country. Far too difficult, Ivar, far too difficult!

 

[David]

I intensely dislike everything on that pictures list! So for me, an English one or possibly a French one.

 

[naplesdon]

Hands down it is San Sebastian, Pamplona and Burgos with a few scattered top spots along the way.

 

[VNwalking]

Anywhere there are pimentos.

 

[jsalt]

Anywhere in France - if money was no object as well

 

[nathanael]

The Norte. Without hesitation! I love the food along the Camino Francés once away from the dreaded Pilgrim Menu, but the variety on the Norte was spectacular. We also found the Norte the most generous and creative with the free little nibbles or tapas that came with drinks.

Norte indeed has a great selection on the menu.

 

[André Walker]

Well, on the Frances I really liked diving into those absolutely gorgeous Rioja wines.
On the Del Norte they had this excellent ice cream and homeemade goat's cheese in an albergue.
On the del Plata I had some exquisite liqueur. Made by monks. And boy, do they know how to do that.

I guess on each Camino there are these little gourmet pearls to discover. Or does liquid food not count?

 

[Tincatinker]

I am staring at https://www.santiagodecompostela.me...the-caminos-de-santiago-in-spain-and-portugal and trying to plan a Camino that will cover all possibilities.

Meanwhile it would be the Norte - Chiperones en su tinta; Rabas; Anguillas; Mejillones; Percebes; Pulpo, what's not to like. And good grilled fish, and Txakoli, and Sidra, and Albariño. But I'd probably have to walk home along the Frances. I could live with the Lomo, Pollo & soggy chips so long I finally got some Morcilla de Burgos

 

[rappahannock_rev]

I can't quote you chapter and verse, but I'm quite sure that morcilla and chorizo al vino were served at the Last Supper.

 

[Pelegrin]

I would choose Norte, bacalao al pilpil, txangurro, pintxos, sidrerias....

 

[Turga]

What Camino would you walk?

View attachment 77196

That's not fair! You are really throwing out the bait. My supper tonight is going to taste like ash in my mouth

 

[C clearly]

I intensely dislike everything on that pictures list! So for me, an English one or possibly a French one.

Well, I wouldn't say "everything", but I agree that few of these really appeal to me.

 

[Tincatinker]

@Turga ❤. I guess i'm lucky, i can cook a pretty good Caldo Galego out of the garden (I brought home various Spanish greens seed from my last trip); Ensalada Mixta just requires a reduction in my tinned tuna stash and another raid on the garden. Chewy Pork & Chicken hammered flat and fried to death is readily available

I can manage to eat cocina española, with little effort, most nights. The thing that takes the sabor is the absence of heat, dust and pilgrims (I have the Rioja )

 

[evanlow]

But these are regional specialities and you don't get them all the time even when you are in the region. I am more for consistently good food, good dessert and good coffee. The only Camino that I walked that has it is not even on the map. It's Camino Portuguese. These people really know how to make good desserts.
Food is excellent and cheap (cheaper than Spain).

 

[SabsP]

Vasco Interior without a doubt .The hidden gems in places like Tolosa, Miranda de Ebro and Vitoria/ Gasteiz.

 

[C clearly]

Vasco Interior without a doubt The hidden gems in places like Tolosa, Miranda de Ebro and Vitoria/ Gasteiz.

Sigh! They were very well hidden when I walked in October. Many places seemed to be closed for some reason (e.g. it's Tuesday, or family vacations, or...) when we were there.

 

[Tincatinker]

Sigh! They were very well hidden when I walked in October. Many places seemed to be closed for some reason (e.g. it's Tuesday, or family vacations, or...) when we were there.

Wow, that's great! It means you'll have to go back!

I remember some lovely moments on that route, and a couple of nights of frozen paella whacked in the microwave while we debated how much lemonade to add to the unspeakable wine we'd been assured was "local" and "good".

 

[David Tallan]

Based on that illustration, probably the the next one I am starting to plan: Madrid/San Salvador/Primitivo.

 

[psheehan]

Definitely Del Norte. Excellent food & wine.

 

[jpflavin1]

All offer a good variety of foods but if I was to choose one it would be the Norte.

 

[Pelegrin]

Vasco Interior without a doubt .The hidden gems in places like Tolosa, Miranda de Ebro and Vitoria/ Gasteiz.

Yes. This must be great because you have the Basque quality without the drawbacks of the touristic Norte in summer.

 

[La Brique Jaune]

Donde sea hay mariscos !

 

[domigee]

Based on food, not the Camino francés

 

[Theatregal]

Definitely pimentos de Padrón, tortilla and patatas bravas in Madrid. I'm always happy with a good caldo and if the ingredients are fresh, I'm one of those people who really likes an ensalada mixta (except the tinned white asparagus ) So in answer to Ivar's question - Which camino? - All of them. I'm sure I'd find something tasty - especially flan.

 

[rappahannock_rev]

Big sigh! Last year I complained about the mediocre CF menus de dia. This year I'd be sooooo grateful for a chance to eat one of those mediocre menus de dia once more.

 

[dougfitz]

Big sigh!

I think we need an emoji for that in these difficult times.

 

[henrythedog]

Big sigh! Last year I complained about the mediocre CF menus de dia. This year I'd be sooooo grateful for a chance to eat one of those mediocre menus de dia once more.

View attachment 77213

You are so correct.

On Camino, I’d run a mile to avoid ‘menu’ - right now, I’d be at the front of the queue.

 

[CWBuff]

Does the Austrian Cheese Road qualify as a Camino?

 

[JabbaPapa]

Camì Catalan to Santiago via La Rioja -- in Spain, anyway.

But in fact if it food were the primary motive, any Via Romea/Francigena route in Italy.

 

[GIOVANBATTISTA]

Anywhere there are pimentos.

Pimientos de Padrón?

 

[VNwalking]

Si!

 

[Priscilla NC]

I had some wonderful meals on the Camino to Muxia and Finisterre. In Negreira, my brother and I spent a delightful afternoon on the patio of a restaurant right on the river. And the next day we had an amazing breakfast just off the Camino out in the middle of nowhere, as I recall. They hand made tortillas with whatever fillings we wanted -- it was the most outstanding tortilla I've eaten.

In Muxia there was the Prestige restaurant where we had probably the best meal of all, padron peppers, a great soup, grilled whole fresh fish, and the best flan ever. And Lires... probably the beautiful weather and the company of my brother made it all taste even better.

The owner of the breakfast place on the way to Muxia gave us a recommendation of where to eat in Finisterre. Can't remember the name, it was great too.

 

[GIOVANBATTISTA]

Si!
View attachment 77236

I love them too

 

[Caminogoat]

The Norte. Without hesitation! I love the food along the Camino Francés once away from the dreaded Pilgrim Menu, but the variety on the Norte was spectacular. We also found the Norte the most generous and creative with the free little nibbles or tapas that came with drinks.

I agree absolutely! The foods on Norte is as wonderful as the senderos.

 

[John Sikora]

Ok, I'll go the minority route. I'm assuming you mean all Caminos and not just the Spanish parts. So, I'd vote for the Camino Portuguese. I have a weakness. If a given culture thinks something is food, I love to try it. Most of the CF is more tourist food (excepting the interior parts away from the Sarria to Santiago leg. But, the seafood along the CP has my vote.

 

[tominrm]

The Norte. Without hesitation! I love the food along the Camino Francés once away from the dreaded Pilgrim Menu, but the variety on the Norte was spectacular. We also found the Norte the most generous and creative with the free little nibbles or tapas that came with drinks.

Another vote with Kanga. I think they call Basque version of tapas as pintxos(pronounced as PIN-chos). Also Basque has its own famous wine Txakoli(Cha-co-li) too.
Asturias has very good bean stew called fabada.
Yum!

 

[Dsavid Keyte]

Best Free Tapas without doubt León

 

[williamlittig]

The Camino de Mezcal near Oaxaca is a culinary treat. I lost weight on al Caminos except The Littoral from Oporto

 

[Isca-camigo]

I like them all, but because seafood is my favourite + the big homemade style dishes of Asturias and Galicia it would be the Norte or Primitivo or a combination of them two. But I also like the Frances from Molineseca onwards for the Berciano type foods which soon becomes Gallego dishes.

 

[Former member 91017]

Oh! I would have so much trouble choosing. I have loaded my own pantry with things from the Basque region, grill Shoshito peppers regularly as an approximation of the Padron peppers, have learned to make bacalao stuffed peppers, a proper paella (not "rice with stuff in it")... Catalan toast.... We are lucky to have a local caterer who hails from Madrid, and he makes many of my Spanish favourites.

I'd like to learn how to make the gambas that had a frisée crunchy batter on them that I had in Pontevedra last fall. The batter gave them the appearance of being fireworks bursting from layers of thin threads.

But here is what I know: if you make this into a poster, I would buy it for my kitchen!!!

What Camino would you walk?

View attachment 77196

 

[jblaskovits]

You are so correct.

On Camino, I’d run a mile to avoid ‘menu’ - right now, I’d be at the front of the queue.

Well said! As I sit in the sun in northern Canada dreaming of and longing for revisiting any of the routes.

 

[Bala]

I'm 68 years old. How am I ever go on every one of the caminos and sample every one of these tapas so I know which Camino is The One for me? I'd better get going!

Great chart, by the way, and I loved all the regional foods I tried all along the Francés. My favorite is whatever's being offered tonight.

 

[Mark McCarthy]

I much prefer the Camino Francés to the Camino Portuguese (mainly because of the road walking on the CP). I adore Jamon and Spanish cheeses and all kinds of pintxos and tapas BUT come on, Portuguese food is so much better than normal Spanish food! A pastel de nata trashes every Spanish cake that has ever been baked and Bacalhau a Braz is just food from heaven! Please feel free to disagree...

 

[Mark McCarthy]

Best Free Tapas without doubt León

Tapas in León are truly fantastic!

 

[naplesdon]

Best Free Tapas without doubt León

You don't know tapas until you spend time in San Sebastian and the tapas in Biarritz is pretty remarkable too.

 

[henrythedog]

Tapas in León are truly fantastic!

If I lived in the ‘wet quarter’ of Leon I’d be dead drunk and smelling of crab and ham every night.

One lives in hope.

 

[Mark McCarthy]

If I lived in the ‘wet quarter’ of Leon I’d be dead drunk and smelling of crab and ham every night.

One lives in hope.

Me too! We can but dream!

 

[Terry Callery]

Perhaps because I avoided the "pilgrim meals" and and crowded albergues on my second Camino, I found the food to be exponentially better on the Portuguese Camino (from Lisbon), than on my first Camino from Roncesvalles on the French Route. I went out of my way to find roast suckling pig, pulpo, and the seafood was very very good in Portugal.

 

[Dsavid Keyte]

You don't know tapas until you spend time in San Sebastian and the tapas in Biarritz is pretty remarkable too.

Yes, but are they free as in León ?

 

[lt56ny]

1. France
2. France
3. Camino del Norte
4. France

 

[jsalt]

OK, after anywhere in France (first choice), second choice would be the Norte. I am often asked which Camino I liked the best – the Frances, the Portugues, or the Norte. They are completely different: I love the CF for the “vibe”, I love the Portugues for the friendly Portuguese people, and I love the Norte for the seafood.

 

[Anniesantiago]

ALL OF THEM!

 

[lindam]

Memories of the wonderful sheep's milk cheeses and Toro wines from the VDLP come to mind. Also, while walking the del Norte and discovering all the little shops with various seafood treasures (I even tried sea urchin for the first time). Not to be forgotten would be the chocolate from Astorga. But so many, many other gastronomic specialities to enjoy throughout the Iberian peninsula.

 

[lt56ny]

You don't know tapas until you spend time in San Sebastian and the tapas in Biarritz is pretty remarkable too.

best ice cream on earth at Gelateria Boulevard in San Sebastian!

 

[DonCamino]

Uuuups, my answer is very different from the other ones given here.

Having to choose a Camino for its food and drinks i would vote for the Camino Frances. After 7 years on Caminos in Spain and Portugal i have many memories of so many common dinners together in pilgrim communities. I remember the many pilgrim menus we had together, often in the hostels.

I have never found this again in this intensity and frequency on all other ways and 4000 km. Often you meet other pilgrims more by chance in bars and restaurant on the other caminos. (Not considering the fantastic Camino family I won on the Primitivo.)

So my choice is no question of taste (would vote for the Norte too) but influenced by the community feeling. Perhaps just a glorified memory of my first and therefore so impressive Camino?

All the best for all of you

So long
DonCamino

 

[lt56ny]

Well, it would have to start in Andalusia, so the Via de la Plata. But I would regret not starting in Valencia as well, or Catalonia, or even the Basque country. Far too difficult, Ivar, far too difficult!

With the Via De La Plata my next stroll in Spain. I know Extramadera is famous for ham. I have been through Castilla and Leon and Galicia so I am familiar with those autonomous regions. What should I be checking out in Andulsia and Extramadera that may be a treat. I am not afraid to try new things at all. Not a big wine drinker and I also try to stay no the lower end of prices in restaurants. Tend to eat alot in albergues because I do have to watch my budget. Often I bring food to eat during the day. Fruit, can of sardines, crackers with cheap pate and of course a big baguette with some quest, jamon or Pavo. But I definitely stop for coffees and rest and if I am in the right cafe (sometimes hard to find) will eat some pretty good pinchos/tapas. Any and all suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[lt56ny]

Uuuups, my answer is very different from the other ones given here.

Having to choose a Camino for its food and drinks i would vote for the Camino Frances. After 7 years on Caminos in Spain and Portugal i have many memories of so many common dinners together in pilgrim communities. I have never found this again in this intensity and frequency on all other ways and 4000 km.

So my choice is no question of taste (would vote for the Norte too) but influenced by the community feeling. Perhaps just a glorified memory of my first and therefore so impressive Camino?

All the best for all of you

So long
DonCamino

I think without a doubt the memories of my best meals are ones that were communal or just made with new friends in the kitchens of albergues. It is amazing how many wonderful chefs I have met on the camino. Some of the best ones are barely in their 20's. Very good answer my friend.

 

[Sixwheeler]

Arles Route = wonderful French food = winning.

 

[Donna Sch]

VDLP. The food was fantastic. The jamon. And don't forget to look out for snails on the menu early on because you won't see them north of Merida as a rule. (Although I did have them in Toledo on the Levante). Any camino that takes in Salamanca or Zamora is a good bet. Those great wines (and where I learned the phrase "Tengo una resaca"). The Levante has truffles and black garlic. And all the varieties of oranges on the roadside you can pick in Valencia.

Hmm, the VDLP or the Levante in summer when there are more vegetables. Taking the Sanabres to get to Santiago so that you have the pleasure of Rionegro's Me Gusta Comer.

 

[domigee]

OK, after anywhere in France (first choice), second choice would be the Norte.

French food is great, I agree, when you can find it

 

[Walking Lover]

What Camino would you walk?

View attachment 77196

Frances

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Chewy Pork & Chicken hammered flat and fried to death is readily available

Chewy Pork & Chicken hammered flat and fried to death is readily available

I remember these meats well, but they still were better than eating another bocadilla for dinner after having had one for lunch...the chewy, hammered and flattened meat (a perfect description) was still a welcome change!

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Does the Austrian Cheese Road qualify as a Camino?

No.

 

[VNwalking]

Any camino within a 50 km range of San Sebastian is also a pretty good bet. I can't speak for the Norte, but the food on the first part of the Vasco was fantastic.

 

[Robo]

Right now the cafe at SdC airport would be good!

 

[VNwalking]

Right now the cafe at SdC airport would be good!

It's not bad even under normal circumstances. Except that the only time I go there is when I'm on the way out...

 

[ivar]

I had a cafe con leche yesterday in plaza Cervantes... very nice!

 

[VNwalking]

Finally!

 

[Sue127]

Looking forward to trying out local foods on the Frances, but will I survive as a pesceterian?

 

[Robo]

Looking forward to trying out local foods on the Frances, but will I survive as a pesceterian?

You'll have no problem at all on the Frances, as long as you don't expect to eat every day

 

[Sue127]

You'll have no problem at all on the Frances, as long as you don't expect to eat every day

Haha! Oh well, my OH may just have to accept a slimmer me, when I return.

 

[Stivandrer]

I am geographicaly indifferent and omnivore,
I love mostly everything I meet on the table...

 

[arild hauge]

What Camino would you walk?

View attachment 77196

Ivar,

Based on 2019 Michelin Guide for Spain, there are now 14 ‘starred’ restaurants available to famished pilgrims on or within few Km of CF, more than 30 on the Norte. Norte pilgrims are of course especially fortunate with route through some of the finest gastronomic territory on earth; including several 3 starred restaurants, so sadly yet lacking on CF. At these a tasting menu is a mere 250 Euro p/p or more (needless to say, drinks in addition). However, if you are prepared to consume food with lesser praise of Michelin Inspectors than “Starred” rating; the ‘Bib Gourmand’ and ‘Plate’ award categories bring another 100 more restaurants into play within a short distance of more than half the Camino stages; all listed and hyperlinked below; many at cost not much more than a stale Bocadillo!. I also include ‘Pilgrim Guide’ to Michelin rating system.

Buen Camino!

Michelin Restaurant Ratings System for Pilgrims

Category	Formal Michelin Criteria	'If Brierley was a foodie'	Price1)	Booking	Dress Code
***	"Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey"	Where gods meet, even if only once	200-300	Essential & months in advance; these are world-renowned restaurants	Ironed shirt/ shawl, no shorts or hiking boots
**	"Excellent cooking, worth a detour"	Sublime; words do not suffice	100-200
*	"A very good restaurant in its category"	Not easy to justify, but peace is big	50-100	Best weeks before; crucial at weekend;	Casual but clean
(B) Bib Gourmand	"Exceptionally good food at moderate prices"	A weekly treat for your feet	30-50	Check some days or evening before	Together with dogs, smelly pilgrims welcome at tables outside
(P) Plate	“Inspectors have discovered quality food.”	Where food tastes only of itself	15-30	Just go, be ready to wait at peak hours

1)Typical Euro per person, drinks not included; 3-course meal or tasting menu

Michelin Rated Restaurants on Camino Frances

(Note: Stage numbers E0-E33 based on ‘Etapas’ from www.gronze.com. Restaurants are on or within 1-2 km of Camino waymarking within towns on route; additionally (in brackets) starred restaurants included if within 25km from Camino elsewhere.)

Stage/Location	Restaurant by Category/Rank
E0: St. Jean Pied-de-Port:	* Les Pyrénées
E3: Huarte:	P: Asador Zubiando
E3: Ilarratz/Urdaitz:	** El Molino de Urdaniz
E4: Pamplona:	* Rodero * Europa B Abaco P Letyana P Baserriberri P Enekorri P Alhambra P Guria P Bodegón Sarria
E7: Logrono:	* Ikaro * Kiro Sushi B La Cocina de Ramón P Umm P La Galeria P Tastavin P Tondeluna
E8: (Bodega Marques de Riscal, 24km Logrono):	* Restaurante Marqués de Riscal
E8: (Moncalvillo, 10km Navarrete):	* Venta Moncalvillo
E9: Santo Domingo de la Calzada:	P Los Caballeros
E10: (Ezkaray, 14km Santo Domingo de la Calzada):	** El Portal P Casa Masip : Echaurren Tradición
E12: Burgos:	* Cobo Vintage B La Fábrica P Puerta Real P Blue Gallery P Casa Ojeda P La Favorita
E15: Fromista:	P Hosteria de los Palmeros
E17: Villacázar de Sirga:	P Mesón de Villasirga
E20: Leon:	* Cocinandos * Pablo B Becook B LAV P Koi P Clandestino
E22: Astorga:	B Las Termas
E23: Castrillo de los Polvazares:	P Casa Coscolo
E25: Carracedelo:	P La Tronera
E25: (Palacio de Canedo, 7km Cacabelos):	B Palacio de Canedo
E33: Santiago de Campostella:	* Casa Marcelo * A Tafona B A Horta d’Obradoiro B Ghalpón Abastos B Café de Altamira P Manso P Auga e Sal P A Maceta P Taberna Abastos P Don Quijote P Pedro Roca

Michelin Rated Restaurants on Camino Norte

Stage/Location	Restaurant by Category/Rank
E0: Irun/Hondarribia	* Alameda P Laia P Singular Iñigo Lavado P Sebastián P Gran Sol P Zeria
E1: Pasajes de San Juan	P Txlutxo
E1: Pasajes de San Pedro	*** Arzak P Izkiña
E2: San Sebastian/Donostia	* eMe Be Garrote * Amelia * Kokotxa * Mirador de Ulía B Galerna B Topa P Bergara P Xarma Cook P Bodegon Alejando P Beti-Jai Berria P A Fuego Negro P Ganbara P Juanita Kojua P Agorregi P Rekondo
E2: Igueldo	*** Akelaŕe P Oteiza
E2: (Iguarte, 9 km Igueldo)	*** Martín Berasategui
E3: Getaria	* Elkano P Kaia Kaipe
E3: Deba	P Urgain
E6: Andra Mari	P Katxi
E6: Larrabetzu	*** Azurmendi * Eneko
E6: (Boroa Jatetxea, 7 km Larrabetsu)	* Boroa
E6: (Barrio Elexalde, 8 km Larrabetsu)	* Andra Mari
E7: Bilbao	* Mina * Zarate * Eneko * Zortziko * Nerua B Los Fueros P Gure-Toki P Bascook P El Globo P Yandiola P Kuma P Aizian P La Despensa del Etxanobe P San Mamés Jatexea
E11: (Ampuero, 19km Laredo)	* Solana
E11: Noja	P Sambal
E12: (Hoznaya, 13km Somo)	* La Bicicleta
E12: (Villaverde, 9km Somo)	** Cenador de Amos
E12: Santander	B Agua Salada B VORS P La Caseta de Bombas P Casona del Judío P El Machi P Cadelo P Cañadío P Gele P Bodega Cigaleña P Umma P Del Puerto P Casa Lita P Asador Lechazo Aranda P La Mulata P Querida Margarita P La Bombi
E13: Arce	* El Nuevo Molino B El Hostal
E13: Santillana del Mar	P Los Blasones P Gran Duque
E14: Liandres	B El Remedio
E14: San Vicente de la Barquera	** Annua P Augusto P Las Redes
E16: Andrin	P Julia
E16: Llanes	* El Retiro P El Bálamu
E17: Celorio	P Castru el Gaiteru
E17: Nueva	P Casa Pilar
E17: Ribadesella	* Arbidel P La Huertona P Quince Nudos
E18: Vega	P Güeyu-Mar
E18: (Parres, 13km Berbes)	** Casa Marcial
E18: (Ariondas, 18km Berbes)	* El Corral del Indianu
E19: Villaviciosa	P Lena
E20: Deva	P Las Nogales
E20: Gijon	* Auga * La Salgar P El Cencerro P V Crespo P Ciuadadela P Gloria
E21: (Prendes, 7km Trabaza)	* Casa Gerardo
E21: Aviles	* Real Balneario
E23: Cudillero	P El Pescador
E24: Soto de Luna	P Cabo Vidio
E26: Puerto de Vega	B Mesón el Centro P Regueiro
E30: Villalba	P Mesón do Campo
E33: Santiago de Campostella:	* Casa Marcelo * A Tafona B A Horta d’Obradoiro B Ghalpón Abastos B Café de Altamira P Manso P Auga e Sal P A Maceta P Taberna Abastos P Don Quijote P Pedro Roca

 

[lindam]

With the Via De La Plata my next stroll in Spain. I know Extramadera is famous for ham. I have been through Castilla and Leon and Galicia so I am familiar with those autonomous regions. What should I be checking out in Andulsia and Extramadera that may be a treat. I am not afraid to try new things at all. Not a big wine drinker and I also try to stay no the lower end of prices in restaurants. Tend to eat alot in albergues because I do have to watch my budget. Often I bring food to eat during the day. Fruit, can of sardines, crackers with cheap pate and of course a big baguette with some quest, jamon or Pavo. But I definitely stop for coffees and rest and if I am in the right cafe (sometimes hard to find) will eat some pretty good pinchos/tapas. Any and all suggestions would be appreciated.

While I rarely eat at restaurants while walking the Camino, one by far stands out above the rest: Me Gusta Comer, the restaurant across the road from the alburgue at Rionegro del Puente on the Camino Sanabres. Should you be connecting to the Sanabres following your time on the VDLP do not miss it! The very friendly chef/restaurant owner will prepare a menu del dia for you based on your requests which comes along with as much wine as you care to drink and a selection of liqueurs to follow. Several years ago this feast cost only 10 euros per person.

 

[VeganCamino]

What Camino would you walk?

View attachment 77196

This is a great thread! I am vegan and had a hard time on the Norte. I only walked it for a week. San Sebastian has amazing food. I would go there again in a heartbeat just to eat at one special vegan place there that was cheap and fantastic!

Otherwise on the Norte I ate lettuce with onions and tomatoes and bread with potato fries.

The big cities-- Pamplona, Leon, Sarria, had good vegan food. In Santiago I found a place I loved so much I ate there every meal.

I have heard the Le Puy has good vegan options. Curious if others have suggestions??? Thanks!

 

[lindam]

This is a great thread! I am vegan and had a hard time on the Norte. I only walked it for a week. San Sebastian has amazing food. I would go there again in a heartbeat just to eat at one special vegan place there that was cheap and fantastic!

Otherwise on the Norte I ate lettuce with onions and tomatoes and bread with potato fries.

The big cities-- Pamplona, Leon, Sarria, had good vegan food. In Santiago I found a place I loved so much I ate there every meal.

I have heard the Le Puy has good vegan options. Curious if others have suggestions??? Thanks!

There is a FaceBook group called Vegetarians and Vegans on the Camino. You might want to join as there is a wealth of information available there.

 

[VeganCamino]

There is a FaceBook group called Vegetarians and Vegans on the Camino. You might want to join as there is a wealth of information available there.

Thank you, yes, I am part of the group and used it on the Camino.

 

[docpam]

What Camino would you walk?

View attachment 77196

I have done many routes in Spain. The best tapas I have ever had, apart from those served in my home, were at Villanua on the Aragonese route. The town is just in the border, south of Somport.

 

[lt56ny]

While I rarely eat at restaurants while walking the Camino, one by far stands out above the rest: ., the restaurant across the road from the alburgue at Rionegro del Puente on the Camino Sanabres. Should you be connecting to the Sanabres following your time on the VDLP do not miss it! The very friendly chef/restaurant owner will prepare a menu del dia for you based on your requests which comes along with as much wine as you care to drink and a selection of liqueurs to follow. Several years ago this feast cost only 10 euros per person.

Yes I intend to get to Santiago via the Sanabres. As I always do I plan an itinerary of stages which once I get on a camino I throw out the window. But it is always fun to do. I was planning on staying in Rionegro to break up a long stage. I will include this restaurant on my itinerary as a reminder. I was planning staying at the municipal there. I have already written the name on my sheet
I looked up the restaurant and found this website. I assume this is the place! Not like any pilgrim menu I am seen before. Looks like a real treat! Thanks

AsociaciónGastronómica

ME GUSTA COMER

agmegustacomer.wordpress.com

 

[lindam]

Yes I intend to get to Santiago via the Sanabres. As I always do I plan an itinerary of stages which once I get on a camino I throw out the window. But it is always fun to do. I was planning on staying in Rionegro to break up a long stage. I will include this restaurant on my itinerary as a reminder. I was planning staying at the municipal there. I have already written the name on my sheet
I looked up the restaurant and found this website. I assume this is the place! Not like any pilgrim menu I am seen before. Looks like a real treat! Thanks

AsociaciónGastronómica

ME GUSTA COMER

agmegustacomer.wordpress.com

Yes, that is the one! I recall at the end of our meal being grateful that it was literally across the road from the albergue where we were staying as I didn't feel that I could walk much further with my full belly! A very fun meal with some Camino friends met earlier along the VDLP with whom I have maintained contact several years later.

 

[lt56ny]

Ivar,

Based on 2019 Michelin Guide for Spain, there are now 14 ‘starred’ restaurants available to famished pilgrims on or within few Km of CF, more than 30 on the Norte. Norte pilgrims are of course especially fortunate with route through some of the finest gastronomic territory on earth; including several 3 starred restaurants, so sadly yet lacking on CF. At these a tasting menu is a mere 250 Euro p/p or more (needless to say, drinks in addition). However, if you are prepared to consume food with lesser praise of Michelin Inspectors than “Starred” rating; the ‘Bib Gourmand’ and ‘Plate’ award categories bring another 100 more restaurants into play within a short distance of more than half the Camino stages; all listed and hyperlinked below; many at cost not much more than a stale Bocadillo!. I also include ‘Pilgrim Guide’ to Michelin rating system.

Buen Camino!

Michelin Restaurant Ratings System for Pilgrims

Category	Formal Michelin Criteria	'If Brierley was a foodie'	Price1)	Booking	Dress Code
***	"Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey"	Where gods meet, even if only once	200-300	Essential & months in advance; these are world-renowned restaurants	Ironed shirt/ shawl, no shorts or hiking boots
**	"Excellent cooking, worth a detour"	Sublime; words do not suffice	100-200
*	"A very good restaurant in its category"	Not easy to justify, but peace is big	50-100	Best weeks before; crucial at weekend;	Casual but clean
(B) Bib Gourmand	"Exceptionally good food at moderate prices"	A weekly treat for your feet	30-50	Check some days or evening before	Together with dogs, smelly pilgrims welcome at tables outside
(P) Plate	“Inspectors have discovered quality food.”	Where food tastes only of itself	15-30	Just go, be ready to wait at peak hours

1)Typical Euro per person, drinks not included; 3-course meal or tasting menu

Michelin Rated Restaurants on Camino Frances

(Note: Stage numbers E0-E33 based on ‘Etapas’ from www.gronze.com. Restaurants are on or within 1-2 km of Camino waymarking within towns on route; additionally (in brackets) starred restaurants included if within 25km from Camino elsewhere.)

Stage/Location	Restaurant by Category/Rank
E0: St. Jean Pied-de-Port:	* Les Pyrénées
E3: Huarte:	P: Asador Zubiando
E3: Ilarratz/Urdaitz:	** El Molino de Urdaniz
E4: Pamplona:	* Rodero * Europa B Abaco P Letyana P Baserriberri P Enekorri P Alhambra P Guria P Bodegón Sarria
E7: Logrono:	* Ikaro * Kiro Sushi B La Cocina de Ramón P Umm P La Galeria P Tastavin P Tondeluna
E8: (Bodega Marques de Riscal, 24km Logrono):	* Restaurante Marqués de Riscal
E8: (Moncalvillo, 10km Navarrete):	* Venta Moncalvillo
E9: Santo Domingo de la Calzada:	P Los Caballeros
E10: (Ezkaray, 14km Santo Domingo de la Calzada):	** El Portal P Casa Masip : Echaurren Tradición
E12: Burgos:	* Cobo Vintage B La Fábrica P Puerta Real P Blue Gallery P Casa Ojeda P La Favorita
E15: Fromista:	P Hosteria de los Palmeros
E17: Villacázar de Sirga:	P Mesón de Villasirga
E20: Leon:	* Cocinandos * Pablo B Becook B LAV P Koi P Clandestino
E22: Astorga:	B Las Termas
E23: Castrillo de los Polvazares:	P Casa Coscolo
E25: Carracedelo:	P La Tronera
E25: (Palacio de Canedo, 7km Cacabelos):	B Palacio de Canedo
E33: Santiago de Campostella:	* Casa Marcelo * A Tafona B A Horta d’Obradoiro B Ghalpón Abastos B Café de Altamira P Manso P Auga e Sal P A Maceta P Taberna Abastos P Don Quijote P Pedro Roca

Michelin Rated Restaurants on Camino Norte

Stage/Location	Restaurant by Category/Rank
E0: Irun/Hondarribia	* Alameda P Laia P Singular Iñigo Lavado P Sebastián P Gran Sol P Zeria
E1: Pasajes de San Juan	P Txlutxo
E1: Pasajes de San Pedro	*** Arzak P Izkiña
E2: San Sebastian/Donostia	* eMe Be Garrote * Amelia * Kokotxa * Mirador de Ulía B Galerna B Topa P Bergara P Xarma Cook P Bodegon Alejando P Beti-Jai Berria P A Fuego Negro P Ganbara P Juanita Kojua P Agorregi P Rekondo
E2: Igueldo	*** Akelaŕe P Oteiza
E2: (Iguarte, 9 km Igueldo)	*** Martín Berasategui
E3: Getaria	* Elkano P Kaia Kaipe
E3: Deba	P Urgain
E6: Andra Mari	P Katxi
E6: Larrabetzu	*** Azurmendi * Eneko
E6: (Boroa Jatetxea, 7 km Larrabetsu)	* Boroa
E6: (Barrio Elexalde, 8 km Larrabetsu)	* Andra Mari
E7: Bilbao	* Mina * Zarate * Eneko * Zortziko * Nerua B Los Fueros P Gure-Toki P Bascook P El Globo P Yandiola P Kuma P Aizian P La Despensa del Etxanobe P San Mamés Jatexea
E11: (Ampuero, 19km Laredo)	* Solana
E11: Noja	P Sambal
E12: (Hoznaya, 13km Somo)	* La Bicicleta
E12: (Villaverde, 9km Somo)	** Cenador de Amos
E12: Santander	B Agua Salada B VORS P La Caseta de Bombas P Casona del Judío P El Machi P Cadelo P Cañadío P Gele P Bodega Cigaleña P Umma P Del Puerto P Casa Lita P Asador Lechazo Aranda P La Mulata P Querida Margarita P La Bombi
E13: Arce	* El Nuevo Molino B El Hostal
E13: Santillana del Mar	P Los Blasones P Gran Duque
E14: Liandres	B El Remedio
E14: San Vicente de la Barquera	** Annua P Augusto P Las Redes
E16: Andrin	P Julia
E16: Llanes	* El Retiro P El Bálamu
E17: Celorio	P Castru el Gaiteru
E17: Nueva	P Casa Pilar
E17: Ribadesella	* Arbidel P La Huertona P Quince Nudos
E18: Vega	P Güeyu-Mar
E18: (Parres, 13km Berbes)	** Casa Marcial
E18: (Ariondas, 18km Berbes)	* El Corral del Indianu
E19: Villaviciosa	P Lena
E20: Deva	P Las Nogales
E20: Gijon	* Auga * La Salgar P El Cencerro P V Crespo P Ciuadadela P Gloria
E21: (Prendes, 7km Trabaza)	* Casa Gerardo
E21: Aviles	* Real Balneario
E23: Cudillero	P El Pescador
E24: Soto de Luna	P Cabo Vidio
E26: Puerto de Vega	B Mesón el Centro P Regueiro
E30: Villalba	P Mesón do Campo
E33: Santiago de Campostella:	* Casa Marcelo * A Tafona B A Horta d’Obradoiro B Ghalpón Abastos B Café de Altamira P Manso P Auga e Sal P A Maceta P Taberna Abastos P Don Quijote P Pedro Roca

So many restaurants I will avoid as I have no chance of being able to afford them!! haha. I am sure many memorable plates to eat. Buen Provecho!

 

[Smallest_Sparrow]

The Norte. No question. If I hadn’t frequently detoured to other Caminos then back again I’d have gained 20 pounds. That said, my favorite meals/foods: bacalao al pil pil in Bilbao, near my hotel on Jardines, grilled pulpo anywhere in Galicia but especially at hotel Encanto de LoLo In Muxia, Padron peppers anywhere but especially a bar near the cathedral in Santiago, tortilla patas everywhere but especially at the caballo saltando, bacalao al horno at Hotel Kaype Quintamar (I may have been influenced by my wonderful room)...great. Now I’m hungry and wanting to travel.

 

[llandaff]

Give me all the pulpo and pementos de padron! Throw in some chipirones and I'm ecstatic!

 

[Bob from L.A. !]

The Norte. Without hesitation!

Ditto !

 

[jpflavin1]

My favorite meal to date on any Camino was dinner in El Rellayo on the Norte. Spectacular views a bonus.

Anchoas del Cauteboco
Merluza del Pincho en salsa marinera con almejas
Copa helados

Probably misspelled

 

[Caminogoat]

Ivar,

Based on 2019 Michelin Guide for Spain, there are now 14 ‘starred’ restaurants available to famished pilgrims on or within few Km of CF, more than 30 on the Norte. Norte pilgrims are of course especially fortunate with route through some of the finest gastronomic territory on earth; including several 3 starred restaurants, so sadly yet lacking on CF. At these a tasting menu is a mere 250 Euro p/p or more (needless to say, drinks in addition). However, if you are prepared to consume food with lesser praise of Michelin Inspectors than “Starred” rating; the ‘Bib Gourmand’ and ‘Plate’ award categories bring another 100 more restaurants into play within a short distance of more than half the Camino stages; all listed and hyperlinked below; many at cost not much more than a stale Bocadillo!. I also include ‘Pilgrim Guide’ to Michelin rating system.

Buen Camino!

Michelin Restaurant Ratings System for Pilgrims

Category	Formal Michelin Criteria	'If Brierley was a foodie'	Price1)	Booking	Dress Code
***	"Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey"	Where gods meet, even if only once	200-300	Essential & months in advance; these are world-renowned restaurants	Ironed shirt/ shawl, no shorts or hiking boots
**	"Excellent cooking, worth a detour"	Sublime; words do not suffice	100-200
*	"A very good restaurant in its category"	Not easy to justify, but peace is big	50-100	Best weeks before; crucial at weekend;	Casual but clean
(B) Bib Gourmand	"Exceptionally good food at moderate prices"	A weekly treat for your feet	30-50	Check some days or evening before	Together with dogs, smelly pilgrims welcome at tables outside
(P) Plate	“Inspectors have discovered quality food.”	Where food tastes only of itself	15-30	Just go, be ready to wait at peak hours

1)Typical Euro per person, drinks not included; 3-course meal or tasting menu

Michelin Rated Restaurants on Camino Frances

(Note: Stage numbers E0-E33 based on ‘Etapas’ from www.gronze.com. Restaurants are on or within 1-2 km of Camino waymarking within towns on route; additionally (in brackets) starred restaurants included if within 25km from Camino elsewhere.)

Stage/Location	Restaurant by Category/Rank
E0: St. Jean Pied-de-Port:	* Les Pyrénées
E3: Huarte:	P: Asador Zubiando
E3: Ilarratz/Urdaitz:	** El Molino de Urdaniz
E4: Pamplona:	* Rodero * Europa B Abaco P Letyana P Baserriberri P Enekorri P Alhambra P Guria P Bodegón Sarria
E7: Logrono:	* Ikaro * Kiro Sushi B La Cocina de Ramón P Umm P La Galeria P Tastavin P Tondeluna
E8: (Bodega Marques de Riscal, 24km Logrono):	* Restaurante Marqués de Riscal
E8: (Moncalvillo, 10km Navarrete):	* Venta Moncalvillo
E9: Santo Domingo de la Calzada:	P Los Caballeros
E10: (Ezkaray, 14km Santo Domingo de la Calzada):	** El Portal P Casa Masip : Echaurren Tradición
E12: Burgos:	* Cobo Vintage B La Fábrica P Puerta Real P Blue Gallery P Casa Ojeda P La Favorita
E15: Fromista:	P Hosteria de los Palmeros
E17: Villacázar de Sirga:	P Mesón de Villasirga
E20: Leon:	* Cocinandos * Pablo B Becook B LAV P Koi P Clandestino
E22: Astorga:	B Las Termas
E23: Castrillo de los Polvazares:	P Casa Coscolo
E25: Carracedelo:	P La Tronera
E25: (Palacio de Canedo, 7km Cacabelos):	B Palacio de Canedo
E33: Santiago de Campostella:	* Casa Marcelo * A Tafona B A Horta d’Obradoiro B Ghalpón Abastos B Café de Altamira P Manso P Auga e Sal P A Maceta P Taberna Abastos P Don Quijote P Pedro Roca

Michelin Rated Restaurants on Camino Norte

Stage/Location	Restaurant by Category/Rank
E0: Irun/Hondarribia	* Alameda P Laia P Singular Iñigo Lavado P Sebastián P Gran Sol P Zeria
E1: Pasajes de San Juan	P Txlutxo
E1: Pasajes de San Pedro	*** Arzak P Izkiña
E2: San Sebastian/Donostia	* eMe Be Garrote * Amelia * Kokotxa * Mirador de Ulía B Galerna B Topa P Bergara P Xarma Cook P Bodegon Alejando P Beti-Jai Berria P A Fuego Negro P Ganbara P Juanita Kojua P Agorregi P Rekondo
E2: Igueldo	*** Akelaŕe P Oteiza
E2: (Iguarte, 9 km Igueldo)	*** Martín Berasategui
E3: Getaria	* Elkano P Kaia Kaipe
E3: Deba	P Urgain
E6: Andra Mari	P Katxi
E6: Larrabetzu	*** Azurmendi * Eneko
E6: (Boroa Jatetxea, 7 km Larrabetsu)	* Boroa
E6: (Barrio Elexalde, 8 km Larrabetsu)	* Andra Mari
E7: Bilbao	* Mina * Zarate * Eneko * Zortziko * Nerua B Los Fueros P Gure-Toki P Bascook P El Globo P Yandiola P Kuma P Aizian P La Despensa del Etxanobe P San Mamés Jatexea
E11: (Ampuero, 19km Laredo)	* Solana
E11: Noja	P Sambal
E12: (Hoznaya, 13km Somo)	* La Bicicleta
E12: (Villaverde, 9km Somo)	** Cenador de Amos
E12: Santander	B Agua Salada B VORS P La Caseta de Bombas P Casona del Judío P El Machi P Cadelo P Cañadío P Gele P Bodega Cigaleña P Umma P Del Puerto P Casa Lita P Asador Lechazo Aranda P La Mulata P Querida Margarita P La Bombi
E13: Arce	* El Nuevo Molino B El Hostal
E13: Santillana del Mar	P Los Blasones P Gran Duque
E14: Liandres	B El Remedio
E14: San Vicente de la Barquera	** Annua P Augusto P Las Redes
E16: Andrin	P Julia
E16: Llanes	* El Retiro P El Bálamu
E17: Celorio	P Castru el Gaiteru
E17: Nueva	P Casa Pilar
E17: Ribadesella	* Arbidel P La Huertona P Quince Nudos
E18: Vega	P Güeyu-Mar
E18: (Parres, 13km Berbes)	** Casa Marcial
E18: (Ariondas, 18km Berbes)	* El Corral del Indianu
E19: Villaviciosa	P Lena
E20: Deva	P Las Nogales
E20: Gijon	* Auga * La Salgar P El Cencerro P V Crespo P Ciuadadela P Gloria
E21: (Prendes, 7km Trabaza)	* Casa Gerardo
E21: Aviles	* Real Balneario
E23: Cudillero	P El Pescador
E24: Soto de Luna	P Cabo Vidio
E26: Puerto de Vega	B Mesón el Centro P Regueiro
E30: Villalba	P Mesón do Campo
E33: Santiago de Campostella:	* Casa Marcelo * A Tafona B A Horta d’Obradoiro B Ghalpón Abastos B Café de Altamira P Manso P Auga e Sal P A Maceta P Taberna Abastos P Don Quijote P Pedro Roca

Casa de Marcelo not only has excellent food (owner's wife is the cocinera), the place is lovely. For this reason, I stayed there for 2 nights. There is a local winery right across the back alley, and the winery owner gave me a free bottle of wine for just straggling in! Don't forget to ask for desert liquor that the owner of the Casa de Marcelo keeps for special guests. It's is a tiny bit out of the way but the owner will pick you up and drop you off.

 

[Mudcrone]

What Camino would you walk?

View attachment 77196

All of them! Yum!

 

[Caminogoat]

Actually, it turned out that the Casa de Marcelo I was talking about is not the same as this Michelin one. The one I went is in Padron, one-day away from Santiago. But this lodging/restaurant is as wonderful. I highly recommend it as it is peaceful and lovely.
Casa de Marcelo
casademarcelo.com
Juane-Carcacia-Padron, 15914, Padron

 

[rappahannock_rev]

[

I have done many routes in Spain. The best tapas I have ever had, apart from those served in my home, were at Villanua on the Aragonese route. The town is just in the border, south of Somport.

Ditto!

At the Bar Asador Jose, Villanua Vieja, May 27, 2018

 

[Caminogoat]

All of them! Yum!

Of course!

 

[Debora]

What was the name of the place in Santiago that you loved so much?

 

[Caminogoat]

It is actually in Padrón. I was mistaken because of the same name. It is a very lovely B&B. You can Google their website to make a reservation.
Casa de Marcelo
casademarcelo.com
Juane-Carcacia-Padron, 15914, Padron

 

[Artful-Chick]

Thanks, Ivar, great thread.
I have some outstanding memories from my Camino travels in France, Spain, Portugal. However, the special ones seem to come from the Portuguese Camino - a few highlights...
Lisboa - pastries to rival France (Fabrico) - and of course Pastel Del Nata in Belem (off the Camino track)
Tomar - middle and last photo - fresh sardines - sitting amidst local people

 

[Moorwalker]

It's all good so it doesn't help at all with deciding which route to walk.

 

[JohnMcM]

As much as I have enjoyed sampling the food in different countries across the world over many years, I still believe the most important meal is breakfast. That's why I wish there were Camino routes in Scotland and Ireland. No finer way to start a walking day than with a full Scottish or Irish breakfast. Yummy!

Buen (full-tummy) Camino

 

[Artful-Chick]

This week my virtual Camino - re-tracing my Camino Frances 2019 for those pilgrims having to cancel their 2020 trip - Fromista to Bercainos del Real Camino, is a food feast. I think this thread bought back the memories of all the amazing food we found in this part of the Meseta. Thanks again, Ivar a great thread. Not sure I can pick a fav, but the Rabbit stew at Ledigos was up there.

 

[Stivandrer]

I am Libra, I simply cannot choose......
just now, my wife asked me what tonic to take with the nice gin she just bought.
-I said, surprise me... but she would have none of that....
Have made a promise, simply to try stuff and especially taking advice from others - and then fin out what is is or how it is spelt.....
It has to look good, of course....

 

[jblaskovits]

I am Libra, I simply cannot choose......
just now, my wife asked me what tonic to take with the nice gin she just bought.
-I said, surprise me... but she would have none of that....
Have made a promise, simply to try stuff and especially taking advice from others - and then fin out what is is or how it is spelt.....
It has to look good, of course....

In my part of Canada always Fever Tree tonic! Enjoy your beverage of choice. Cheers.