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Eating in Valencia has always been a pleasure, but in recent years the level has been through the roof. Whether you're looking to enjoy their ancient recipes and customs or treat yourself to a travelling feast, this gastro revolution, which has attracted the attention of gourmets from all over the world, has also raised the average price of restaurants. But those who know how to search are still able to find authentic places where they can indulge in 'esmorzaret' and Mediterranean food without affecting the bank account. An ideal trick for luxury dining for a few euros is to go to the markets. In Cabanyal in particular, they have a sensational offer and our favourite bar for lunch, where you pay less than 15€.
In addition to their delicious 'esmorzaret', they serve a short menu of appetisers and Mediterranean dishes, which combine weekdays with a menu of paella en llanda that will leave you hooked. The place we are talking about is Tonyina Barra, an extension of the essence of Bar Tonyina, a classic in the city that opened more than ten years ago, which holds a special place in the hearts of the most adventurous Valencians. Here, they transfer their passion for the sea and the garden at a good price to the bar format.
Tonyina Barra is a proposal brimming with simplicity and flavour that conveys the essence of the famous Tonyina Bar, a Valencian gastronomic reference with more than a decade in the city. In its format as a bar inside the market, this space combines spontaneity and the proximity of the environment with a menu that focuses on the essentials without losing its creativity. Here, from the early hours of the morning, you can enjoy the traditional Valencian esmorzaret with an innovative touch.
This isn't just any lunch: Tonyina Barra reformulates the concept while keeping the classic ingredients but taking them to the next level. Delicate figatells, pastrami brascadas that are a pure explosion of flavour, and crispy roasts with a subtle spicy touch stand out among their sandwiches, always half a bar and generously prepared. For €7.5, the combo includes sandwiches, drinks and groceries, to fit your pockets without skimping on quality. Its lunch schedule, from 9:30 to 12:30, allows you to start the day with dishes that combine tradition and modernity.
But if sandwiches are a hit, Tonyina Barra's rice dishes are a real treat. From Monday to Friday, they offer a paella en llanda menu designed for sharing and full of the flavour of traditional Valencian rice dishes. For 18€ per person, this menu includes a starter, rice in the middle and bread. The proposal varies daily between options such as baked rice, secret rice and artichokes, rice with ribs and mushrooms, or vegetable rice, guaranteeing authenticity and freshness. Cooked plain, these rice dishes capture the essence of Valencian cuisine, with a warm presentation without artifice.
As if that weren't enough, Tonyina Barra's menu of appetisers and Mediterranean dishes ensures that there's always something delicious to try. Its lively atmosphere and perfect location in the Cabanyal Market make this stall not just a place to enjoy food, but also a place to meet and connect with the gastronomic soul of Valencia. The commitment of Román Navarro, its manager, to bring traditional cuisine to the public with an innovative and accessible touch is evident in every bite.
From the cold beer to Mediterranean cuisine, Tonyina Barra is an example of how eating well doesn't have to be expensive. Whether you love esmorzarets, are a fan of rice dishes, or are someone looking for an authentic dining experience, this place will quickly become your favourite. Without a doubt, it is the ideal place to savour the pleasures of Valencian food without worrying about the bill.
Tonyina Barra Address:
Joan Mercader, 16. Valencia.
Tel. 963 25 91 71.
Average price: 25€.
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Read the original article in ELLE SPAIN.