Where to Eat in Badajoz
Wondering where to eat in Badajoz? You are in for a treat. This border city sits close to Portugal, and its food shows it. Local cooks blend Extremaduran tradition with Portuguese touches, such as golden cod (bacalao dorado). Meanwhile, the surrounding pastures produce some of Spain’s finest Iberian ham and pork. Add hearty migas, creamy local cheeses and wines from the Guadiana valley, and you have a proper feast. Whether you want a quick tapa or a long tasting menu, Badajoz delivers. Read on for 19 great places, grouped by style and budget.
Before you go, a few quick tips. Lunch usually starts around 2pm, and dinner around 9pm. Our guide to what time Spaniards eat dinner explains more. Booking also helps at popular spots, as our restaurant reservations guide shows. For wider inspiration, try our Extremadura food itinerary.
Traditional restaurants
Start with the classics. These tapas bars and taverns serve Extremaduran flavours in a relaxed setting. Many sit around the old town squares, so you can hop between them on foot. Not sure how it all works? Our guide to ordering tapas in Spain will help.
Taberna La Casona Alta sits on the old town’s Plaza Alta. It is known for grilled octopus and squid, plus jamón ibérico and croquetas. Google reviewers give it 4.2 out of 5. They love the buzzy courtyard and the free olives. However, a few mention slow service. Get directions.
Next, try Bodega San José under the old town’s arcades. It is known for Extremaduran cheeses, pork sirloin and classic tapas. Google reviewers score it 4.2. They enjoy the sunny terrace and the local produce. Get directions.
CervecerÃa Pepe Jerez faces Plaza de España and its bell tower. The kitchen is known for creative tapas that never get too fussy. Google reviewers rate it 4.2. They praise the setting and the helpful staff. On the downside, the wine list is short. Get directions.
Fancy something more playful? Bar TaperÃa Ajonegro on Plaza Cervantes is known for inventive tapas, burgers and local craft beers. It scores 4.4 on Google. Reviewers like the homely feel and the desserts. Arrive early, though, because it fills up fast. Get directions.
Mesón El Chozo Extremeño is the spot for grilled meat and local dishes. People know it for squid stuffed with bacon and cheese, and for bacalao dorado. Google reviewers give it 4.1. They mention huge portions and friendly service. Some report slow waits at busy times. Get directions.
Restaurante Gladys is a local favourite. It is known for its garlic sirloin (solomillo al ajo) and a strong Extremaduran wine list. Google reviewers score it 4.5. They praise the attentive waiters and the aubergine starter. Book ahead, because tables fill quickly. Get directions.
Few places feel as unique as Restaurante Galaxia. This spaceship-themed classic has served Badajoz since 1982. It is known for fresh seafood, including Huelva prawns, plus quality Iberian meats. Google reviewers rate it 4.6. They love the lively buzz and the knowledgeable staff. A few find it noisy or pricey. Get directions.
Meat lovers should try La Bacana Asador & Fondue. It is known for grilled ribeye, cheese boards and fondue. Google reviewers score it 4.5. They rave about the croquetas and the friendly team. Some call it pricey for the portions. Get directions.
Driving in along the Madrid–Lisbon road? Restaurante Venta Don José is a handy stop. It is known for Iberian ham and bacalao dorado. Google reviewers give it 4.1. They praise the quality ham, the helpful staff and the walls covered in celebrity photos. However, a few find it pricey. Get directions.
TaperÃa Lega is a small tapas bar in the MarÃa Auxiliadora area. It is known for mushroom carpaccio, beef ham and salmon toast. Google reviewers rate it 4.7. They love the warm service and the olives that arrive with each drink. Get directions.
Fine dining restaurants
Badajoz also has a serious fine dining scene. Several kitchens here hold Repsol Guide recognition. Tasting menus are the best way to sample the region’s produce, so come hungry. Reserve early, too.
Restaurante Lugaris holds two Repsol Suns. It is known for its seasonal menu, which changes three times a year. Dishes include Iberian presa carpaccio and confit artichokes. Google reviewers give it 4.7. They highlight the tasting menu, the wine cellar and polished service. Note that it closes on Sundays. Get directions.
Drómo is small and intimate. Chef Juan Manuel Salgado serves tasting menus that celebrate Extremaduran produce. The restaurant also holds two Repsol Suns. Google reviewers score it 4.6. They praise the open kitchen, creative dishes and warm service. Give the team a day’s notice for the tasting menu. Get directions.
Restaurante Marchivirito is among Badajoz’s best-known addresses. It serves traditional dishes with a modern twist and holds a Repsol Sun. Think partridge salad and roast pork. Google reviewers rate it 4.6. They mention quality ingredients and fairly priced wine. A few find it pricey overall. Get directions.
In the old town, El Alma del Genio blends national and international ideas with top local produce. It is known for its tasting menu. Google reviewers score it 4.6. They love the elegant decor, soft music and attentive service. Get directions.
El Laurel is a favourite for a special night out. It is known for tasting menus, plus dishes like carpaccio and patatas bravas. Google reviewers score it 4.8. They rave about the warm service and the French toast (torrijas). One diner even arranged a vegetarian tasting menu. Get directions.
Budget friendly restaurants
Eating well in Badajoz does not need a big budget. These spots serve generous plates at friendly prices. Many fill up at weekends, so arrive a little early. Also, our guide to the menú del dÃa explains how to grab a lunchtime bargain.
Nuevo Chicago has been pouring drinks since 1932. It is known for hearty tapas such as oxtail and morcilla (black pudding). Google reviewers give it 4.6. They like the generous portions, the welcoming owner and the rock-music vibe. Get directions.
Crissol Fede Nessi, in the Conquistadores area, is known for croquetas, octopus and cachopo. It scores 4.0 on Google. Reviewers mention big portions, a heated terrace and friendly staff. One diner enjoyed a satisfying meal for around €15. Get directions.
El Chupi serves homemade food at fair prices. It is known for offal dishes, smoked meats and a tasty breakfast toast. Google reviewers score it 4.4. They praise the homely cooking and the large terrace. Get directions.
Los Canchales is a rustic tavern known for wood-oven cooking. Try the torreznos (crispy pork rinds) and the presa. It scores 4.4 on Google. Reviewers praise the generous portions and homemade desserts. However, it can get noisy. Get directions.
That is plenty of choice! Whatever you pick, order a few plates and share them. Many kitchens close between lunch and dinner, so plan your snacks wisely. Finally, pair your meal with a local Ribera del Guadiana red. Staying longer? Our weekend in Extremadura towns guide shows where to head next.