The story
Habitual is chef Ricard Camarena’s exploration of the Mediterranean in its fullest sense. The restaurant describes its proposition as “organic and profound” – a way to understand what is habitual in the region’s culinary roots. This isn’t a simple tribute; it’s a deliberate, contemporary interpretation of the land’s bounty, from the eastern shores to the western edges of the sea.
Located on the lower floor of Valencia’s historic Mercado de Colón, the space feels connected to the market’s energy while offering a calm, focused dining experience. The cooking is contemporary and international in its techniques, yet firmly anchored in local products and traditions.
The menu at Habitual changes with the seasons, but certain dishes capture the restaurant’s spirit. Starters like confit tomato in sheep’s butter with puff pastry and zaatar, or roasted eggplant with hollandaise, feta, and pine nuts, show a kitchen that balances richness with brightness. Grilled beach-caught monkfish with meunière jus and roasted Swiss chard with pistachio mojo exemplifies the seafood approach – direct, clean, and full of flavour.
Among the mains, the country-style chicken rice with mushrooms and truffle is a standout, as is the squid rice with onion foam and chopped nuts. Both are served for a minimum of two people, encouraging a shared, convivial meal. Desserts include a Valrhona molten chocolate cake and a “torrija” with dairy ice cream, alongside seasonal offerings like cherries from Alicante with yogurt ice cream and hibiscus balsamic.
Habitual’s thoughtful, ingredient-driven approach earned it a Michelin Recommended distinction in 2026, a reflection of its consistent quality and clear identity within Valencia’s vibrant dining scene. The restaurant is part of the Ricard Camarena group, which includes several acclaimed concepts in the city, yet Habitual stands on its own as a direct, honest expression of Mediterranean cooking today.
Recognition
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Details
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