"Almuerzo—or esmorzaret in Valencian—is a sacred mid-morning ritual, a no-fuss break between breakfast and lunch built around a giant sandwich, a cold beer, a handful of olives or peanuts, and an espresso, all for one set price. La Cantina de Ruzafa keeps this tradition alive inside a garden-view space that feels like a family’s kitchen in the middle of Ruzafa. The menu changes daily based on what they pull from the market or their backyard, but if figatells are on offer, don’t miss them—they’re like Valencian burgers made from seasoned pork offcuts and organs. They’ve also got vegan and vegetarian options too, like a tortilla de patatas bocadillo or seitan with local squash. When it’s time for coffee, order a cremaet—a rum-enflamed espresso spiked with cinnamon and orange peel—basically the Valencian answer to an espresso martini. (Make a reservation via WhatsApp.)" - David Neimanis