The panoramic views make it an ideal spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Credit: El Nàutic Restaurant
Nestled in the heart of the Marina of Oliva, El Nàutic Restaurant is a heartfelt celebration of Mediterranean cuisine, local history, and a deep connection to the sea. With breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and a menu that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, El Nàutic offers a culinary experience that satisfies both the appetite and the soul.
The restaurant sits atop a rich story that dates back to the early 1970s, when a group of Oliva residents dreamed of building a nautical club and a proper harbour after the government banned fishing boats from docking on the beach. After years of planning, community effort and fundraising, their vision became a reality in 1976 with the official opening of the Club Nàutic d’Oliva. Fast forward to 2023, when the restaurant space was taken over by the Les Dos Llunes group, with the goal of turning it into a source of pride for locals and visitors alike. If the 2nd Prize at the 50th International Fideuà Contest in Gandia is anything to go by, they are well on their way.
This triumph – achieved in their very first competition – is testament to the dedication of Alejandro, the manager, and Diego, the head chef. Their winning fideuà stood out for its delicate balance of tradition and technique, earning praise from the jury for its flavour and precision.
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From the moment you step onto El Nàutic’s sun-drenched terrace, you are welcomed by the sight and scent of the sea. The panoramic views, combined with a laid-back yet elegant atmosphere, make it an ideal spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner – whether you’re gathering with friends, family, or a loved one.
A tribute to Mediterranean diversity
The menu is a tribute to Mediterranean diversity, with something for every palate. Starters range from classic “boquerones en vinagre” to inventive dishes like “sepia con cremoso de kimchi” or “tataki de atún with wasabi and sriracha mayo.” Cold cuts, cheese boards and Iberian ham sliced by hand add a touch of refinement, while local touches such as “carpaccio de pulpo” with pimentón de la Vera nod to traditional flavours with modern flair.
Salad lovers will appreciate options like the “Ensalada Santa Aneta,” with local tomatoes and tuna belly, or the more daring “Ensalada de Berenjena” featuring roasted eggplant, sobrasada, honey, and candied sesame. For warm starters, the mini brioche buns – filled with pulled pork or crispy calamari – are both playful and satisfying. There’s even a gourmet version of patatas bravas, reimagined with signature sauces.
When it comes to main courses, El Nàutic truly shines. The seafood is remarkably fresh, with standout dishes including grilled red prawns flamed in garlic oil, “calamar en dos texturas,” and the grilled octopus served with creamy parmentier potatoes. “Tesoros de la lonja,” a rotating selection of daily fish and shellfish, connects diners directly with the nearby fish markets.
Naturally, paella and fideuà are stars of the show. With multiple varieties of each – from seafood to figatell and even carabinero – these iconic dishes are available only at lunchtime and for a minimum of two people. Their “Fideuà del Señoret” and “Arroz meloso de pulpo y galera” are particularly recommended, offering richness and depth of flavour without overwhelming the senses.
Meat lovers are not left behind
Thanks to the Josper oven – a hybrid grill-oven fired with oak charcoal – dishes like lamb chops, Iberian pluma, and aged beef ribeyes are seared to perfection, smoky and tender in every bite. The T-bone and slow-roasted cochinillo (suckling pig) are perfect for sharing on special occasions.
Desserts are indulgent without being overdone. Highlights include a creamy “tarta de queso parmesano,” an inventive pistachio dessert inspired by the wave of Kanagawa, and a warm apple puff pastry paired with vanilla ice cream. For a gluten-free treat, the chocolate brownie with macadamia nut ice cream is both rich and comforting.
El Nàutic is open daily from 9 a.m. to midnight, with the kitchen serving continuously until 11 p.m. Whether you’re a morning coffee enthusiast or a night-time foodie, the team at El Nàutic ensures there’s always something delicious on offer.
Located at Carrer d’Alfons el Magnànim 41 in Oliva, El Nàutic is easily accessible by car or boat. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends or during summer, when the terrace becomes one of the most coveted dining spots on the Valencian coast.
Location
Carrer d’Alfons el Magnànim 41, Oliva – Valencia
Phone
96 285 39 39