Europe is synonymous with being a continent offering an extensive list of mouth-watering foods.

Its diverse culinary culture provides a variety of succulent dishes with several specialities from different countries.

Alongside the continent’s gastronomical delights, it’s also home to some of the healthiest foods, as the European food standards are much stricter compared to regions like America, where foods contain far more additives.

The availability of fresh produce featuring regional recipes and cooking techniques passed down through generations puts Europe on the map for foodies.

As for the region that has the best foods of all, the topic remains hotly debated among experts. Still, one award-winning chef has given one European spot his approval, adding that “nowhere else compares”.

Famous Spanish chef José Andrés has declared an Andalusian city the best place in the world for eating.

Andrés is one of the most popular Spanish chefs worldwide and has been named twice by Time magazine among the “100 Most Influential People.” 

The chef is passionate about Spanish cuisine, particularly from a province in the country’s south.

According to Andrés, Cádiz, Spain, has the best cuisine in the world, saying, “Nowhere else compares to Cádiz.”

He added: “There’s no better place to eat, not just because of the produce, but also because of the stories behind it.”

The region offers fresh seafood, tasty tapas, varied gastronomy and a handful of stellar ingredients.

One of José Andrés’ favourite dishes within Cádiz’s cuisine is tortillitas de camarones which are shrimp fitters and also a quintessential dish of the region.

According to Andrés, Cádiz stands out for other delicacies, including pescaíto frito, which is fried fish; ajo caliente, which is a hot garlic soup; and berza jerezana, which is a type of stew.

José Andrés received the Adopted Gaditano award from ABC, La Voz de Cádiz, and Fundación Cajasol, which is an award that honours those who, although not born in Cádiz, have shown profound love and commitment to the province.

A testament to his great passion for Cádiz’s cuisine, Andrés frequently visits the area to sample various restaurants in the province. 

The chef is a regular customer at places like Casa Balbino (Sanlúcar), El Campero (Barbate), Mercado de Abastos (Zahara de los Atunes), or Venta Pinto (La Barca de Vejer).

Other popular dishes in Cádiz include Canilla-style chicken, ortiguillas fritas and potatoes with cuttlefish.