Europe / Spain / Costa Brava / Figueres / Best Restaurants

El Motel

You mightn’t guess it from the name or the location, but El Motel is the most elegant place to eat in Figueres. It is set within the Hotel Empordà on the edge of town, so it’s not exactly convenient, but it’s an excellent option for a special lunch once you’ve done with Dalí. This family-run restaurant has been a much-loved Figueres institution since 1961. Its Seasonal Flavors menu relies on fresh ingredients from the market, so you never know quite what to expect, but rest assured that chef Jaume Subirós will deliver beautifully, whether it’s a dish of roasted eggplant topped with Costa Brava shrimp or pigeon in a rich orange, chocolate, and rosemary sauce. There’s also a good children’s menu and a regional cheese board. In the evening, tapas selections are offered in the wine bar, along with good-value natural wines.