Popular gastronomy and markets in Vitoria-Gasteiz
The traditional cuisine of Vitoria-Gasteiz, together with the new Basque cuisine and pintxos, is one of the key pillars of local enogastronomy. You won't be able to resist trying it! Seasonal products are the essence of the culinary culture and Vitoria-Gasteiz is the nexus and the main showcase of what Álava has to offer.
Potatoes, Alavese pinta beans, broad beans, perretxikos (spring mushrooms), Gorbea honey, or Idiazabal cheese (made from "latxa" sheep, an indigenous breed) are the basis of exquisite traditional recipes. Not forgetting the condiments that give the finishing touch to the dishes, such as Añana salt, of extraordinary quality and collected in the Valle Salado, a 6,000-year-old salt flats.
Special mention should also be made of the black truffle from Montaña Alavesa, and the Arróniz extra virgin olive oil from Rioja Alavesa. And for pairing, there is nothing better than the excellent wines of Rioja Alavesa and the txakoli of Álava.
The most traditional recipes are prepared on the occasion of local festivals. On the eve of the festival of San Prudencio, the patron saint of the province, the gastronomic societies (private premises where the greatest pleasure is to get together to cook and taste the dishes) play a leading role in the popular Tamborrada. The star dishes are scrambled eggs and snails. And on 1 May, the food and wine on offer moves to the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de Estíbaliz.
Special mention should be made of Vitoria's famous patisseries, some of which are over a hundred years old, which prepare specialities such as truffles and bonbons, nougat, Basque cake, goxua, pastries, sweets and jams, which you must try.
Mercados de la ciudad
They are the perfect experience to access the best local products, with close and expert advice.
Abastos Market. This is the city's main market, a space full of activity with stalls selling the best local produce. It also includes gastrobars and workshops and tastings where you can immerse yourself in the Basque food and wine culture.
Almond Market. Every first Saturday of the month, traders from the Medieval Quarter take to the streets to display their products. This market is complemented by various activities that link trade, food and wine and culture.
Other markets. The garlic market on the Day of the Blusa and the Neska (25th July, Santiago), the Medieval Market (September) and the Agricultural and Craft Christmas Market (Thursday just before Christmas Eve) stand out for their tradition.
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