6 Best Restaurants in Extremadura, Spain

The drab interiors of this Mérida standby belie a well-executed menu of must-try dishes including migas (fried bread crumbs with bacon), jamón-wrapped melon, gazpacho, and whatever puchero del día (stew of the day) happens to be burbling out back.

This homey, sun-drenched restaurant serves honest Extremaduran fare at an excellent price. Unlike at other dining options in the area, cooks here pay special attention to presentation and ingredient quality—attributes on display in the not-too-greasy migas, wonderfully juicy Iberian pork dishes, and refreshing tomato salads.

The third-generation owner of this beloved bar keeps endangered Cacereño dishes alive such as eggs scrambled with lamb brains (a delicacy!); spicy stewed pig ear; and zarangollo, a garlicky, vinegary salad of blistered roasted peppers and parsley topped with flaked Spanish tuna. There is outdoor seating available.

Pop into this modern coffee and pastry shop for breakfast, dessert, or a quick snack.

You may have to ring a bell and stand around aimlessly outside to be seated, but once settled in at your high-top table in the quirky but pleasant dining room, it's smooth sailing. The slow-cooked pork cheeks are a must, along with gelatinous pig snout pie if you're feeling adventurous. 

This tiny taberna, which serves some of the best tapas in town, is always packed with locals. Order a few tostas (open-faced sandwiches on crusty peasant bread) and raciones (shared plates), and pair them with Extremaduran wines.