When we think about Galiciawe automatically imagine its coasts and the fresh seafood it offers. However, there is a corner of the interior of Galicia, about 90 kilometers from the ocean, which has Octopus lover conquered: Melide.
Although far from the coast, Melide has managed to make a name for itself in gastronomy thanks to its exquisite octopus at the fairbecoming a must-see destination for the most demanding palates. But how did this small town in the hinterland manage to acquire the reputation of having the best octopus in Galicia?
The best places to eat octopus in Melide
In Melide you will find the best places to taste octopus a feira, including two Gold Plate winners.
Garnacha Pulperia
Located on the Camino de Santiago, Pulpería A Garnacha is one of the gastronomic jewels of Melide. Founded by Ernesto Pereira, who continues the family tradition of pulpeiros, this restaurant offers an authentic experience of octopus at the fair.
Since its opening in 2005, A Garnacha has stood out for its selection of high quality ingredients and careful preparation of your octopusThe pulpería received the National Gastronomy Award: Golden Plate 2017, which highlights its excellence in the preparation of this traditional dish.
Ezequiel Grocery Store
With over 60 years of experience, Pulpería Ezequiel is another reference in Galician gastronomy. This establishment, known for its cozy atmosphere and home cooking, offers excellent quality octopus a feira.
Customers highlight the generous portions and attention to detail in each dish.. Ezequiel was also awarded the National Gastronomy Prize: Gold Plaque in 2022consolidating itself as one of the best places to taste octopus in Melide.
Melide Pulp
Pulpeira de Melide is an informal restaurant that combines Galician tradition with a warm atmosphere. Visitors praise the quality of their octopusas well as other Galician delicacies such as Betanzos tortilla and lacón croquettes.
The Story of the Octopus at the Fair
The fascination with octopus in Melide has its roots in the Middle Ages. In the 12th century, the monastery of Santa María de la Real de Oseira, in Ourense, received an inheritance in the form of a reserve in Marín. Diego Arias, a soldier turned monk, left this reserve to the monks.
As part of the payment of the inheritance, The people of Marín began delivering octopuses to the monks. As this food arrived at the monastery, its distribution among the parishioners contributed to its popularization in the interior of Galicia. Over time, Octopus has become a traditional delicacy at local fairs, giving birth to the famous “pulpo a feira”.
The tradition of octopus on wooden plates
Octopus a feira is traditionally served on wooden platesa custom that has its roots in ancient livestock fairs. The wooden boards were resistant to transport and absorbed water, leaving only the olive oil on the surfacewhich enhances the flavor of the octopus.
Melide has made octopus a true gastronomic jewel of the Galician interior, attracting both locals and pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. If you are in Galicia, do not miss the opportunity to taste the best octopus in these three emblematic places.
