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Casa Carmela is renowned for its authentic Valencian paella, prepared over a wood fire, offering a traditional dining experience. The restaurant's beachfront location adds to its charm, providing a picturesque setting for guests. While the paella is highly praised, some reviewers note that reservations are essential due to its popularity. The ambiance is described as traditional and beautiful, with efficient service enhancing the dining experience. However, some patrons have mentioned that the prices are on the higher side, and the service can be slow during peak times. Overall, Casa Carmela is considered a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic Spanish cuisine in Valencia.

Discover Casa Carmela: Valencia's Iconic Paella Experience 

Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of Valencia in the vibrant Poblados Marítimos district, Casa Carmela stands as a venerable institution offering an authentic taste of traditional Valencian cuisine. This historic gem, located at C/ d'Isabel de Villena 155, has been delighting locals and travelers alike for over a century with its masterfully crafted paella, cooked the old-fashioned way over aromatic orange tree wood fires. The restaurant’s elegant yet inviting ambiance perfectly complements the rich culinary heritage it embodies.

A Culinary Journey Through Valencia’s Signature Dish

Casa Carmela’s paella is nothing short of legendary. Each dish is a delicate symphony of flavors, featuring tender chicken, succulent rabbit, fresh seafood, and locally sourced ingredients like snails and broad beans. The rice, cooked to a perfect thin layer about one centimeter deep, develops a crispy socarrat – the cherished caramelized crust at the bottom of the pan – infused with saffron's subtle perfume and the smoky aroma of the wood fire. This meticulous preparation requires orders to be placed at least 24 hours in advance, ensuring that every serving is a memorable experience steeped in tradition.

Beyond its culinary prowess, Casa Carmela offers a warm and authentic dining atmosphere. Guests rave about the friendly, attentive staff who patiently assist with language barriers and create a welcoming environment whether you’re seated at the cozy bar or enjoying the scenic outdoor terrace by the beach. The restaurant’s well-oiled service runs like clockwork, a remarkable feat given its popularity and the bustling crowds eager to taste the city’s best paella.

 due to the restaurant’s high demand, especially for paella orders made 24 hours in advance.

 with wheelchair accessible facilities and accommodations for guests with dietary restrictions, including gluten-free options.

 with free parking options and a picturesque beachfront setting that enhances the dining pleasure.

Do I need to make a reservation at Casa Carmela?

 Yes, due to its popularity, it's highly recommended to make a reservation in advance to secure a table.

 Casa Carmela operates from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Tuesday through Saturday. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Is there a minimum spend per person at Casa Carmela?

 Yes, there is a minimum spend of €40 per person, including children.

 Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible, with facilities to accommodate guests with mobility needs.

Does Casa Carmela offer gluten-free options?

 Yes, the restaurant provides gluten-free options for guests with dietary restrictions.

Positive sentiment prevails among visitors.

 Many praise the exceptional quality of the seafood, the generous paella portions, and the traditional wood-fired cooking method that elevates every bite. The attentive and warm service, combined with the charming beachfront setting, creates a truly memorable dining experience. Some guests note the importance of booking ahead given the restaurant’s popularity and mention that the pricing leans toward the higher side, but most agree the authenticity and flavor justify every euro spent.

Casa Carmela is a must-visit culinary landmark for anyone eager to savor the true essence of Valencian paella. Whether you are a foodie, traveler, or local, this historic restaurant offers an immersive taste of Spain’s rich gastronomic culture with every dish served.

Europe

Spain

Nestled in the vibrant Poblados Marítimos district of València, **Casa Carmela** is a culinary gem renowned for its authentic Valencian paella. With over a century of tradition, this restaurant serves up dishes that are not just meals but experiences steeped in local culture. The moment you step inside, the warm ambiance and the tantalizing aroma of wood-fired cooking envelop you, inviting you to indulge in the rich flavors of Spain's coastal cuisine.

At Casa Carmela, the star of the menu is undoubtedly the **paella**, prepared using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. The **Paella Valenciana** is a must-try, featuring tender chicken, rabbit, and snails, all simmered to perfection with a hint of saffron that gives it a distinct golden hue. Another standout is the **Seafood Paella**, brimming with fresh local catch, including succulent prawns and delicate calamari, all cooked over aromatic orange wood that infuses the dish with a unique smokiness. Each bite transports you to the heart of Valencia, making it an unforgettable culinary journey.

Casa Carmela is famous for its authentic Valencian paella, prepared using traditional methods over orange wood fires.

Visiting Casa Carmela offers a chance to enjoy a true taste of Valencia in a historic setting, where each dish is crafted with care and tradition.

Casa Carmela is conveniently located near the beautiful beaches of Valencia and the lively promenade, making it a perfect stop after a day of exploration.

One of the unique aspects of Casa Carmela is its commitment to tradition. The restaurant has been using the same orange wood for cooking paella for over a century, creating a distinct flavor profile that is hard to replicate. The kitchen is a spectacle in itself, with paelleras lined up over the open flames, each dish prepared with precision and care. This dedication to authenticity is what keeps both locals and tourists coming back for more.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, make sure to stop by Casa Carmela for an unforgettable dining experience. Indulge in the rich flavors of authentic Valencian cuisine, and immerse yourself in the warm, inviting atmosphere that has made this restaurant a beloved institution for over a century. Don't miss out on the opportunity to savor the best paella in Valencia—**reserve your table today** and experience the magic for yourself.

Long-standing restaurant dishing up traditional Valencian paella in elegant surroundings.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQM3ZPanl3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ9-rCGHdIYA0R9c5tfV6sydc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQM3ZPanl3RRAB

A lot of websites recommend this. Not a fan of the cancellation fee but we still booked it. The seafood was great, especially the octopus. The paella portion is very big for 2 people. We ordered the original paella valenciano which is special and has a herbal flavour. Would recommend the seafood ones as it is more rich in flavour. Overall good experience.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYLXZlV1hnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ9-rCGHdIYA0R9c5tfV6sydc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYLXZlV1hnEAE

Best paella valenciana! Might seem touristy, even with “touristy” service but the food makes up for it. As you get served, the waiters seem to warm up to you a bit. There was a longer than usual wait for our paella because of some problem in the kitchen so our server brought us some croquettes on the house. Only thing is, I wish we could just order the paella and make that the main star of the show otherwise you get full eating everything else. The steak goes well with the paella.

Must make a reservation and order the paella in advance.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzczZqUXFRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ9-rCGHdIYA0R9c5tfV6sydc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzczZqUXFRRRAB

These flames have been burning orange tree wood for 102 years, third generation "best paella in the world." I finally got to experience what I now understand is the only paella of my life so far (bc it's the only one I've had in Valencia). The kitchen is an awesome array of paelleras spread out over ironwork above the toasty perfumed wood fires, each paella having had to have been ordered at least 24 hours in advance in this fully packed beach restaurant in north Valencia. Starter of large house salted anchovies was delicious, followed by wonderful crisp whole fried tiny squids, though the starter-star was lobster tomalley stuffed and grilled medium squid. Victor and I opted for traditional paella Valenciana with chicken, rabbit, snails and broad beans, while the other three got paella rojos carabineros with monkfish and red shrimp. Less than a centimeter thick each, and served with your own wooden spoon so as not to scratch the own when scraping the center soccarat, these were intensely full of meaty savory rich flavor, plus the perfume of some (but not a lot) of saffron, all wrapped in the smokiness of the wood fire. Local dates and a unique walnut cookie to finish. An exceptional experience that I'll certainly never forget.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURUejlHU2RBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ9-rCGHdIYA0R9c5tfV6sydc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURUejlHU2RBEAE

Possibly the best place for paella in town. We researched a fair bit before we came, & ordered the special Paella Valenciano online before hand which could only be available as such. On the sunny day we arrived, there was already a queue inside the premise even though it was 3pm. The 102 years old establishment had everything run like clockwork. It was quite impressive to watch. We ordered the tasting menu as it seemed like good value. Food quality was as good as expected, except the Mollusc salad which was a bit bland to my palette. The legendary paella was thin, only about 1cm thick. Rice was cooked crisp & stuck to the pan the authentic way. The variety of meat & seafood on the paella was quite spectacular. It included chicken, duck, rabbit, small snails & sweet bread.  We could not finish the large portion amongst the three of us & had to pack the rest in a doggie bag. They were excellent with it & did it for us beautifully. Service, on the other hand, was professional & prompt, as I said before, run like a small army.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYa0lfdkt3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ9-rCGHdIYA0R9c5tfV6sydc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYa0lfdkt3EAE

I absolutely loved dining here.

The staff was extremely friendly and patient with my broken Spanish.

I sat at the bar and was constantly checked on to see if I needed anything else.
They allowed me to bring my luggage inside and assured me it wouldn’t be in the way which was my biggest concern.

I wanted paella but due to my poor planning, I wasn’t aware you need to call ahead to coordinate having one made for you. But as I saw them pass, they looked amazing.

I did however order the anchovies, roasted vegetables, and croquettes.
The food was cooked to perfection. 👌🏽

When I come back to Valencia, this is the first place I’ll return to 💯

Casa Carmela: Best Traditional Paella in València

Established in 1922, Casa Carmela is a historic restaurant in Valencia, Spain, renowned for its traditional Valencian paella cooked over a wood fire. The restaurant's beachfront location at Playa de la Malvarrosa adds to its charm, offering a picturesque setting for diners. Over the years, Casa Carmela has maintained its commitment to authentic Valencian cuisine, using local ingredients and traditional cooking methods to create a memorable dining experience.

Casa Carmela: A historic beacon of authentic Valencian paella in Valencia Spain.

Nestled along the picturesque beachfront of Playa de la Malvarrosa, Casa Carmela stands as a culinary landmark in València, Spain. Since its establishment in 1922, this venerable restaurant has dedicated itself to the art of traditional Valencian paella, meticulously prepared over aromatic wood fires that infuse each dish with a signature smokiness.

A century-old tradition of authentic paella

Casa Carmela was founded in 1922 with a clear mission: to preserve and celebrate the authentic flavors of Valencian cuisine. Its famed paella valenciana, a delicate harmony of chicken, rabbit, snails, and broad beans, has been crafted using family recipes passed down through generations. The cooking technique, involving open wood fires fueled by orange tree wood, creates a distinctive socarrat — the cherished crispy rice crust — that defines its legendary dishes.

Over the decades, Casa Carmela has become synonymous with authenticity and quality in the local gastronomy scene. Esteemed personalities like renowned chef Dabiz Muñoz have praised its paellas as the best in the world, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to tradition and excellence. The establishment’s elegant yet unpretentious ambiance invites visitors to immerse themselves in Valencian culture while enjoying a meal crafted with local ingredients and time-honored methods.

Why Casa Carmela remains a beloved destination

 is at the heart of Casa Carmela’s identity. From the wood-fired paelleras to the locally sourced ingredients, every element is crafted to honor Valencian culinary heritage.

 as a specialist in traditional Valencian paella, setting a benchmark that endures today.

 along the popular Playa de la Malvarrosa, offering diners stunning sea views and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

 using orange tree wood to create the distinctive smoky aroma that elevates its paellas beyond the ordinary.

As a dining destination, Casa Carmela continues to welcome locals and travelers alike who seek an authentic taste of Valencia’s culinary soul. Its combination of history, flavor, and warm hospitality ensures every visit is more than just a meal—it’s a memorable cultural experience.

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Restroom

Casa Carmela is a long-standing restaurant in València, renowned for its traditional Valencian paella served in elegant surroundings. Located in the vibrant Poblados Marítimos district, it offers a warm ambiance and a menu that highlights local flavors and fresh ingredients.

Casa Carmela

Casa Carmela is a long-standing restaurant in València, renowned for its traditional Valencian paella served in elegant surroundings. Located in the vibrant Poblados Marítimos district, it offers a warm ambiance and a menu that highlights local flavors, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.

Authentic Valencian cuisine specializing in wood-fired paellas and fresh seafood dishes.

Paella Valenciana

Seafood Paella

Vegetarian Paella

Grilled Octopus

Grilled Red Prawns

Codfish Croquettes

Fried Fish

Chufa Nut Flan

Lemon Pie

Casa Carmela Menu

Nestled in the heart of València, Casa Carmela invites you to savor authentic Valencian cuisine, celebrated for its expertly wood-fired paellas and fresh seafood dishes. This historic establishment has perfected a menu that highlights local flavors and traditional recipes, making it a must-visit for food lovers seeking genuine taste experiences.

Start your meal with an enticing array of seafood and traditional bites, each bursting with Mediterranean freshness and simple yet bold seasoning.

 seasoned with olive oil, garlic, parsley, and a fresh squeeze of lemon for a tender, flavorful start.

 featuring succulent prawns charred to perfection with garlic and parsley.

 made with creamy codfish, potatoes, and herbs, fried to a golden crisp.

 an assortment of tender anchovies and sardines lightly dusted in flour and fried in olive oil for a crunchy bite.

At the heart of Casa Carmela’s menu are the revered paellas, each crafted with care over wood fires to deliver that coveted socarrat — the crispy rice bottom that true paella lovers crave.

 is a traditional masterpiece combining rabbit, chicken, duck, escargots, green beans, and garrofón beans, enriched with saffron and the subtle sweetness of tomato.

 offers a sumptuous blend of shrimp, mussels, clams, and squid combined with green beans and garrofón, all kissed by saffron and olive oil.

 crafted with artichokes, green beans, and garrofón, infused with saffron and ripe tomato, provides a vibrant plant-based option that does not compromise on flavor.

End your feast with traditional Valencian sweets that perfectly balance sweetness and texture.

 is a silky smooth flan made from local chufa nuts, milk, and vanilla, offering a unique and delicate finish.

 delivers a bright and zesty contrast with its buttery crust and luscious lemon curd filling.

Complement your meal with a selection of fine local wines, refreshing beers, and expertly crafted cocktails. While Casa Carmela focuses on traditional Valencian fare, the kitchen occasionally features specials that highlight seasonal ingredients and regional seafood treasures, ensuring a memorable dining experience with every visit.

Delight in authentic Valencian flavors at Casa Carmela! Enjoy tasty paellas by the beach in Poblados Marítimos. Book your table now!

Casa Carmela: Best Paellas in València Beach Area

Valencia Municipality

A classic paella featuring rabbit, chicken, duck, escargots, green beans, garrofón, saffron, tomato, olive oil, rice, water, and salt, cooked over a wood fire for an authentic flavor.

Traditional Valencian Paella

A delightful mix of fresh seafood including shrimp, mussels, clams, and squid, combined with green beans, garrofón, saffron, tomato, olive oil, rice, water, and salt, prepared over a wood fire.

A flavorful combination of artichokes, green beans, garrofón, saffron, tomato, olive oil, rice, water, and salt, cooked over a wood fire for a smoky taste.

Tender octopus grilled to perfection and served with olive oil, garlic, parsley, and lemon.

Succulent red prawns grilled and garnished with olive oil, garlic, parsley, and lemon.

Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these croquettes are made with codfish, potatoes, onion, flour, milk, egg, bread crumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper.

A selection of small fish such as anchovies and sardines, lightly floured and fried until crispy.

A traditional dessert made with chufa nuts, milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and a touch of sweetness.

A zesty lemon pie made with lemon, sugar, eggs, butter, flour, baking powder, and salt.

Discover Casa Carmela, Valencia’s Timeless Paella Haven 

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Poblados Marítimos in València, Spain, Casa Carmela stands as a cherished icon of traditional Valencian cuisine. Since 1922, this charming establishment has been passionately serving up authentic paella cooked over aromatic wood fires, offering guests a taste of culinary history amidst elegant and inviting surroundings.

At Casa Carmela, the star of the show is undoubtedly the traditional Valencian paella. This iconic dish features succulent rabbit, tender chicken, flavorful duck, escargots, green beans, and garrofón beans, all infused with fragrant saffron, ripe tomato, and luscious olive oil. The magic is in the preparation — each paella is meticulously cooked over a wood fire, imparting a subtle smokiness and rich depth that's impossible to replicate. Expect generous portions perfect for sharing, making it an ideal choice for groups or family gatherings.

Beyond the traditional Valencian paella, Casa Carmela offers a delectable menu that caters to diverse tastes. Seafood lovers will relish the vibrant Seafood Paella, brimming with fresh shrimp, mussels, clams, and squid, all grilled to perfection over the signature wood fire. Vegetarians are not left out, with a flavorful Vegetarian Paella featuring artichokes, green beans, and other garden-fresh ingredients, also kissed by the wood fire’s smoky aroma.

Tender octopus served with olive oil, garlic, parsley, and lemon, showcasing Mediterranean flavors.

Crispy on the outside and creamy inside, made with codfish, potatoes, and parsley.

A selection of lightly floured anchovies and sardines fried until perfectly crispy.

No meal at Casa Carmela is complete without indulging in their traditional desserts. The Chufa Nut Flan offers a creamy, subtly sweet finish, made from locally cherished chufa nuts. Alternatively, the zesty Lemon Pie provides a refreshing tang, balancing the richness of the main courses perfectly. Complement your meal with a selection of fine wines, refreshing beers, or a classic cocktail, all served in a warm, welcoming environment.

Located at Carrer d'Isabel de Villena 155 in the heart of Valencia’s Poblados Marítimos district, Casa Carmela invites diners to experience a true Valencian culinary tradition. The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for soaking up the Mediterranean ambiance. With free street and lot parking available, visiting is convenient whether you're exploring the city or arriving by car. The team is attentive and professional, ensuring a smooth dining experience — reservations are highly recommended, especially for paella, which must be ordered in advance to guarantee freshness and authenticity.

Accepts credit and debit cards and NFC payments

Whether you're a local València resident or a food-loving traveler, Casa Carmela promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey into the heart of Valencian paella tradition.

Valencia

Experience the best of Valencian cuisine at Casa Carmela! Try our traditional paellas, fresh seafood, and cozy beachfront dining. Reserve now!

Casa Carmela: Authentic Valencia Paella

Explore Casa Carmela, València's iconic restaurant. Indulge in our legendary paellas and authentic dishes crafted with local ingredients. Book a table today!

Discover Casa Carmela: València's Top Dining Spot

Join us at Casa Carmela for an unforgettable culinary journey! Enjoy our renowned paellas and delightful seafood in a historic beachfront setting. Reserve now!

Casa Carmela menu overview

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mains

desserts

drinks and specials