Sea urchins, also known as Garoines in Catalan, are a highly appreciated marine delicacy on the Costa Brava. Their unique flavor and soft texture have turned these little inhabitants of the sea into one of the most important products of Mediterranean gastronomy. If you are wondering where to eat garoines on the Costa Brava, here we offer you some recommendations to enjoy this exquisite food in the best restaurants and during the harvesting season.
Palafrugell and Garoinada
One of the best places to taste garoines on the Costa Brava is Palafrugell, especially during the Garoinada, a traditional gastronomic event held between January and March. During this festival, several restaurants in the area, especially in Calella de Palafrugell, Llafranc and Tamariu, offer special menus focused on the Garoines. Some of the most recommended restaurants this season are:
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The Balcó de Calella (Calella de Palafrugell)
One of the most traditional menus to offer in the Garoinada. With spectacular views of the sea, it is perfect for enjoying fresh garots accompanied by typical dishes of the Costa Brava.
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Hotel Llafranc (Llafranc)
This emblematic hotel-restaurant, located on the seafront, offers menus during the Garoinada that include garoines and other seafood, all with excellent service and an incomparable environment.
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La Xicra (Palafrugell)
Known for its traditional Catalan cuisine, La Xicra is a benchmark in Palafrugell during the Garoinada. The special menu includes fresh garoines alongside typical dishes of the season.
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L’Arc Restaurant (Palafrugell)
In the heart of Palafrugell, this restaurant combines tradition and modernity in its Garoinada menus, where Garoines are protagonists alongside other flavors of the Mediterranean.
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Les Voltes de Calella by Es Portal (Calella de Palafrugell)
Located in a charming setting, this restaurant participates in the Garoinada offering garoines alongside a careful selection of seafood dishes and local products.
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Restaurant El Far (Llafranc)
This restaurant, located on top of a cliff with impressive views of the Mediterranean, offers during the Garoinada an unforgettable gastronomic experience with menus that include garoines and other fresh seafood.
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Hotel Casamar (Llafranc)
This restaurant also usually joins the Garoinada, offering a menu that mixes tradition and creativity, always highlighting the Garoines.
When is the Garoine Season?
The best time to taste garotas on the Costa Brava is during the winter months, mainly between January and March. This is the time when the urchins are at their best, full of flavor and freshness. Several restaurants organize gastronomic days during this period, such as the aforementioned Garoinada in Palafrugell, where the Garoins are celebrated with special menus.
How are garoins served?
Garoines are usually served raw, half-opened and ready to be savored with a spoon, straight from their shell. Its intense sea flavor is incomparable, and in some restaurants they accompany it with toasted bread or a wedge of lemon to enhance its flavor even more. Some chefs also incorporate them into more elaborate dishes, such as rice or pasta, bringing a marine touch to their creations.
If you are a seafood lover and you find yourself on the Costa Brava during the winter months, you cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy garoines in some of the best restaurants in the area. An authentic gastronomic experience full of Mediterranean flavor!
