Last updated on July 22nd, 2025
Cantabrian cuisine is a no-nonsense approach to food that lets the fresh, local ingredients do the talking. The delicious dishes waiting for you in Cantabria are hard to resist.
With the Atlantic Ocean as its front yard and lush pastures as its backyard, Cantabria has hit the culinary jackpot. The cooking techniques are straightforward but don’t let the simplicity fool you; the flavors are as bold as the region’s rugged landscape.
Hearty stews like “cocido montañés” are the ultimate comfort foods, perfect for sharing with loved ones or hoarding for yourself (we won’t judge). Cantabrian cuisine is a delicious reminder that sometimes, less is more – unless we’re talking about seconds, in which case more is definitely more.
These were things we ate as part of our northern Spain road trip. So let’s get right to the typical foods of Cantabria that you must try when you visit the region.
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1. Cocido Montañés
Cocido Montañés is a hearty stew perfect for chilly days. Made with white beans and various meats like pork belly, chorizo, and pork ribs, it’s a stick-to-your-ribs kind of dish. The stew also includes cabbage, providing a bit of greenery.
You’ll find this comforting dish served in many local spots. One great place to try it is Casa Cayo in Potes. The flavors there are unbeatable. Their Cocido Montañés has that home-cooked goodness.
This dish is a staple in Cantabria cuisine. It’s often eaten during winter, but you may crave it all year round once you’ve tried it!
2. Sobaos Pasiegos
Sobaos Pasiegos are a must-try when visiting Cantabria. These sweet, buttery cakes are a local favorite. They are made with flour, sugar, butter, and eggs. Simple ingredients, but packed with flavor. When you bite into a sobao, you’ll notice its unique texture. Soft, yet dense, with a hint of lemon zest. It’s hard to eat just one.
You can enjoy them for breakfast or as a snack. Many local bakeries offer fresh sobaos daily. Visiting a traditional market? Look for stalls selling homemade sobaos.
On your visit to Santander, stop by La Gallofa. They serve sobaos that are light and incredibly tasty and they pair well with coffee.
3. Quesada Pasiega
Quesada Pasiega is a dessert you don’t want to miss. It’s a bit like a cheesecake but lighter. The main ingredients are fresh cheese, eggs, butter, sugar, and a touch of lemon zest. It’s baked until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
If you’re in Torrelavega, stop by delicatessen La Ermita. Their Quesada Pasiega has a perfect balance of flavors, and it’s so smooth you’ll want to eat the whole pack.
4. Rabas
Rabas are these fried squid rings that are crispy and delicious. Locals love them as an appetizer or snack with a cold beer.
Head to La Bombi in Santander to get some of the best rabas in town. Their rabas are perfectly fried and seasoned just right. You can enjoy them with a nice view of the bay.
Don’t miss out on visiting Bodega Cigaleña, either. Their rabas are top-notch and the bustling atmosphere adds to the experience.
It may be difficult for you to find everything on this list when you explore Cantabria, so I recommend that you take a foodie guided tour on foot in Santander, like this highly rated Santander Gastronomic Cultural Tour. You get to learn about the important cultural and historical monuments of the city and taste a selection of local tapas with a drink at the end.
5. Anchoas de Santoña
Anchoas de Santoña are a must-try. These are anchovies from the coastal town of Santoña, Cantabria. They’re salted and preserved in olive oil and you get a hint of umami flavor with just one bite.
You can find some of the best Anchoas de Santoña at Bodega del Riojano. Their anchovies are perfectly salted, with a smooth texture. Pair your anchovies with a glass of local white wine.
At Casa Lita, the anchovies come with just a touch of extra virgin olive oil. The combination is simple but delicious.
6. Orujo de Liébana
Orujo de Liébana is a strong spirit made from the grape skins, seeds, and stems left after winemaking. You’ll find it in the Liébana region of Cantabria.
This drink packs a punch. Sipping it feels like a warm hug… but from a bear. It’s not for the faint-hearted!
If you want to try it, head to the town of Potes. Many local distilleries offer tastings. Casa Cayo is a popular spot among visitors. It has a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy Orujo de Liébana along with traditional Cantabrian dishes.
7. Picón Bejes-Tresviso
Picón Bejes-Tresviso, a distinctive blue cheese from the Liébana Valley in Cantabria, Spain, is crafted from a blend of cow, sheep, and goat milk. It is not as famous as Cabrales from Asturias, but its rich, slightly spicy taste and crumbly texture has earned it a prestigious DO status.
The cheese is made using traditional methods, with milk curdled using natural rennet and hand-pressed into molds. During the aging process of at least two months, the cheese develops its characteristic bluish-green veins and piquant flavor.
You can find Picón Bejes-Tresviso for sale in local shops and markets throughout Cantabria, particularly in the towns of Potes and Tresviso. Look for the official DO label to ensure authenticity. The cheese is also served at various restaurants and tapas bars in the region, often as a dessert or paired with red wine.
For an immersive experience, visit one of the small, family-run dairies in the Liébana Valley to witness the cheesemaking process and sample the cheese at its source.
Learn more about Asturias Vs. Cantabria besides the cheeses if you’re deciding on just one region to visit!
8. Merluza en Salsa Verde
Merluza en Salsa Verde showcases the region’s love for fresh seafood and simple, delicious ingredients. The star is the hake, a tender white fish cooked in a vibrant green sauce made with parsley, garlic, and white wine.
The dish is typically prepared by lightly flouring the hake fillets and sautéing them in olive oil until golden brown, then adding the green sauce to the pan. Some variations include clams or asparagus. It’s often served with boiled potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the remaining sauce.
You can find Merluza en Salsa Verde at many traditional restaurants throughout Cantabria, especially along the coast. A good place to try is La Bombi in Santander.
9. Sorropotún
Sorropotún or Marmita is a hearty tuna stew, perfect for a cool evening in Cantabria. This dish is made with bonito tuna, potatoes, onions, green peppers, tomatoes, and a touch of paprika. The result is a flavorful and comforting meal.
You can find Marmita at many local cafes and restaurants. One place you shouldn’t miss is Restaurante Boga Boga in San Vicente de la Barquera – the town the dish is actually known for. They serve a version that’s so good, you might ask for seconds. Give it a try, and you’ll see why Marmita is a beloved dish in Cantabria. The combination of fresh fish and local vegetables makes it special.
10. Borono (Morcilla Lebaniega)
Borono is a traditional blood sausage from Cantabria, specifically from Lebaniega. Made with pork blood, onions, and rice, it has a rich and savory taste. It’s usually sliced and fried until crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
You can find it served at local markets and at restaurants like Casa Cofiño in Caviedes. There, it’s fried to perfection and pairs well with grilled peppers. Try it as a tapa or part of a hearty meal. The texture can be a bit surprising at first, but it’s definitely worth a taste.
Borono is often enjoyed during festive celebrations, highlighting its cultural significance. If you’re adventurous with food, this is a must-try. Plus, it’s always fun to tell your friends back home that you tried blood sausage in Spain!
