The Camino routes cross many regions—and sometimes countries—each with unique traditions, culture, and cuisine. Food is an important part of any journey, so we’ve picked 10 Camino dishes you must try. If you’re walking the Camino Francés, you’ll find many opportunities to enjoy these classic local dishes and specialties.
1. White Asparagus
People recognise Navarra for its white asparagus, which many consider the best in Spain. Simply served with a spoonful of mayonnaise, it’s a true delight. Another Navarrese speciality is Pochas—a regional variety of beans slow-cooked with cubes of Serrano ham. Helena at Casa Sabina in Roncesvalles is known for serving some of the most delicious Pochas you can find.
2. Chilindrón sauce
Chilindrón is a traditional sauce originating from Navarra, the Basque Country, and Aragón. Made primarily from red vegetables like tomatoes and red peppers, it’s a rich and flavourful base. Restaurants often cook lamb or chicken al chilindrón, simmering the meat in this delicious sauce.
3. Potatoes Rioja style
Coming from the La Rioja region—famous worldwide for its red wine—you’ll discover a range of dishes prepared ‘a la Riojana’ or ‘Rioja-style.’ A popular example is a hearty potato stew, with potatoes gently cooked in clear broth alongside spicy chorizo sausage, making it much more than a simple potato dish.
4. Ice cream in Logroño
If you walk the Camino Francés from Logroño, you’ll discover unique ice cream flavours like marzipan, goat’s cheese with blueberries, cherry and orange sorbets, and Ferrero Rocher. Although Logroño is famous for its wine, this lively capital of La Rioja also has a strong tradition of ice cream making. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy one of these delightful sweet treats along your journey!
5. Tapas in Burgos
Burgos, honoured as Spain’s gastronomic capital in 2018, is a fantastic destination for lovers of quality food. Explore the city’s many bars and enjoy tapas—small plates bursting with a wide range of flavours and combinations—so you can sample as many delicious dishes as possible during your visit.
6. Cured meats in León
Once you arrive in Castilla y León, cured meats take centre stage on many restaurant menus. Cecina, a smoked beef speciality, is a local favourite, and the region’s embutidos (cured sausages and meats) are renowned for their exceptional quality and flavour.
7. Cakes and Chocolate from Astorga
Astorga once boasted as many as 64 chocolate factories—more than enough reason to pause and sample some of the exquisite artisan chocolate made locally. While you’re there, don’t miss trying the famous Mantecados—little buttery cakes—and Hojaldres, which are sweet, sticky, and delightfully flaky pastries. The town also features a fascinating chocolate museum well worth a visit.
8. Botillo in El Bierzo
As you travel along the Camino Francés, you’ll pass through the region of El Bierzo, with Ponferrada as its capital. The area is best known for Botillo, a traditional dish made by chopping, seasoning, and spicing various cuts of pork, which are then stuffed together, cured, and smoked for several days.
Before serving, Botillo is cooked and sliced, and it’s also delicious when added to stews. El Bierzo is equally famous for its cherries—if you’re passing through in summer, be sure to try them. You’ll spot cherry orchards along the route, and fresh cherries are widely available in local shops and markets.
9. Octopus market fair-style in Melide
Galicia’s most iconic dish is octopus, traditionally enjoyed on market days—hence its name in Galician, Pulpo á feira (octopus market day style). Be sure to stop for a ración (portion) at a genuine pulpería, a bar or restaurant specialising in octopus. Here, the octopus is gently boiled and served simply with a sprinkle of sea salt and smoked paprika. One popular spot to enjoy this delicacy on the final stretch of the Camino Francés is Garnacha in Melide.
10. Cheese in Arzúa
As you near Santiago de Compostela, you’ll pass through the charming market town of Arzúa. Don’t miss the chance to take a photo with the statue of the humble woman selling cheese in the main square—a beloved local symbol.
Wander through the small shops to sample some of the region’s famous cheese. One must-visit spot is the historic butcher shop run by father and son, both named Luís, known as Carnicería Tarazona. Here, you can even see fresh milk being taken straight from the cow, and of course, taste the traditional Arzúa cheese alongside their selection of meats. This family business has proudly served the community for over a century.
Buen Camino and Buen Provecho! We’ve already shared our list of the 10 Must-Try Galician Dishes You’ll Fall in Love With while walking the Camino de Santiago.
Before your next trip, be sure to download our Camino Food eBook. It’s the perfect guide if you want to discover everything about the delicious food waiting for you along the Camino routes. If you’d like to learn more about the Camino de Santiago or need help booking your trip, feel free to get in touch with us.
