"Most people don’t think of beef when they think of Valencia, but Askua is trying to change that. It serves some of the best steak in Spain, with limited cuts sourced from Cárnicas Luismi Garayar, a top butcher in the north. The chuleta is grilled over live flame, sliced tableside, and served with near-ceremonial reverence. The rest of the menu leans rich and comforting—bull tail and marrow croquettes, a steak sandwich on pan de cristal that’s borderline criminal, and a Santa Pola red shrimp tartare that’s both humble and indulgent. The wine list is deep, and there’s no playlist or flash—just the kind of place that proves serious food doesn’t need to show off. RESERVE A TABLE" - David Neimanis