My list of Northern Spanish foods to try in Santander includes both traditional Spanish dishes and those that are more specific to the region. It felt like our days in Santander revolved around meals. There were leisurely morning coffees paired with pastries, three-course lunches, aperitifs in the evening, and hours-long dinners.
While we are on the topic of food in Santander, I would like to highlight a few things that might surprise Americans. First, lunchtime is at 2 pm, and restaurants typically don't open for dinner until 8 pm. When we visited in June, restaurants were quite busy and reservations were usually necessary.
We were happily surprised to find that, in general, restaurants were far more affordable than they are back home in Chicago. One factor that brought restaurant checks down in price is that wine is much more affordable in Spain. Additionally, meal prices were a bit lower than the norm back in Chicago. Meals at top restaurants were about $120 for the two of us, while we often spend close to $200 for a meal in Chicago (note: wine at a nice Chicago restaurant is usually $20 a glass, which can escalate dinner prices).
Northern Spanish Foods to Try in Santander
Foods
Cocido Montañés
This hearty bean-based stew is a very common Cantabrian meal. It has a rich, thick broth with chunks of pork or chorizo and additional vegetables, often collard greens or cabbage. This was frequently on lunch menus, and we saw it sold by the jar at La Ermita, a shop near my in-laws' home.
Tortilla Española (Spanish Omelette)
A tortilla Española is a thick omelette. Potatoes and onions are the most popular ingredients, although we found versions made with tuna or chicken.
Jamon Iberico
Cured ham is widely available throughout Spain. You can even buy an entire leg of cured ham at the grocery store for around 70 Euros! You can enjoy Jamon Iberico in a sandwich or as part of a charcuterie platter.
Croquetas
Croquetas in Santander tended to be simply filled with rich, melted cheese, differing from the potato and ham croquetas I have enjoyed in other regions of Spain. You will find croquetas on nearly every menu, and restaurants can add their own spin to the classic dish by adding mushrooms, truffle oil, or a bit of aioli.
Patatas Bravas
This is a perfect example of a food that is nearly every menu, but is prepared slightly differently at each restaurant. The essential elements are crispy potatoes and a sauce with a mild spice level. It's an irresistible snack.
Pinchos
Pinchos are snacks served on small slices of bread or on small skewers.
Cadelo's Korean Wonton Lasagna
This is incredibly specific, but if you are visiting Santander, I don't want you to miss the opportunity to dine at the exceptional Cadelo. While everything at this Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant was wonderful, their version of lasagna made with crispy Korean wontons, ground beef, and a creamy bechamel was truly memorable. My mouth is watering as I type this.
Pastries and Desserts
Sabao
These small butter cakes are incredibly popular. There is a tiny storefront called Luca on Calle Amos de Escalante that sells freshly baked Sabaos and Quesada Pasiega.
Quesada Pasiega
This typical Cantabrian cheesecake has a dense pudding consistency. It's made with pasiego cheese and can be found prepackaged at markets and freshly made at bakeries.
Milhojas (Thousand Layer Cake)
The Spanish version of a mille-feuille or Napoleon is made with crispy flaky layers of puff pastry and dulce de leche or creme patissiere.
Arroz con Leche (Rice Pudding)
Rice pudding is made with rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. It's popular on dessert menus and it's sold by the jar at La Ermita.
Seafood
Anchovies
Tinned fish is hugely popular in this region of Spain.
Pulpo (Octopus)
Often served grilled, octopus is a staple in Cantabria.
Rabas
Deep-fried squid is an essential seafood tapa.
Cocktails
Gin and Tonic
Spanish Gin and Tonics are served in large goblets or wine glasses. We found that Nordés Gin from Galicia was especially popular. It was hot while we were in Spain, and a big icy gin and tonic was a great way to cool off. Sometimes we would be offered a choice of different flavored tonics, while other times it was simply garnished with lemon or lime.
Calimocho
This surprisingly popular cocktail is made by mixing red wine and Coca-Cola.
Sangria
Perhaps more popular with tourists than locals, Sangria is fruity and refreshing. Every bar seems to have their own versions with some incorporating chopped fruit.
