Lorraine Williamson
Forget the fuss of fine dining—this summer. Spain’s tastiest experiences may be found where the tablecloths are absent, but the flavour is unforgettable. The Guía Repsol has unveiled 260 new Soletes for summer 2025, spotlighting the kind of relaxed, local places Spaniards actually eat in—whether it’s a sun-bleached chiringuito in Cádiz or a mountain bar in the Pyrenees.
These aren’t Michelin-starred temples to gastronomy. They’re the cafés, taverns, ice cream parlours, and beach bars that locals love—and now, so can you.
What exactly Is a Solete?
Introduced in 2021 by Guía Repsol, Spain’s go-to gastronomic guide, the Solete (literally “little sun”) is a friendly counterpoint to the more exclusive Soles—those stars of Spain’s elite culinary scene. Instead of haute cuisine, Soletes celebrate authentic, welcoming spots where atmosphere matters just as much as what’s on your plate.
Over 50 of Repsol’s food experts handpick them, crisscrossing the country searching for honest, characterful eateries with fair prices and zero pretension. Nearly 5,000 establishments now carry the Solete mark.
From Cádiz to the Pyrenees: Local favourites recognised
This year’s crop of Soletes stretches across every region. Among the standout additions:
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El Sombrerico in Águilas (Murcia), a laid-back coastal café just steps from the sand.
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Casa Titi – El Bartolo in San Fernando (Cádiz), a family-run institution with roots stretching back to 1930.
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Pyrenean gems like Le Petit Bistro in Alquézar and Borda Arracona in Ansó, offering rustic plates with mountain views.
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In Jaca, the breezy terrace of Las 3 Ranas earned its stripes for charm and crowd-pleasing bites.
The autonomous communities of Galicia, Castilla y León, and the Balearic Islands also fared well. In A Coruña alone, nine new Soletes were awarded, showcasing everything from seafood joints to new-wave tapas bars.
Aragón gained 14 new entries—seven in Huesca—while Murcia saw its Solete tally climb to 98, thanks to fresh picks in Cartagena, Bullas and Cehegín.
Who are Soletes for?
In a word: everyone. Whether you’re road-tripping through backroads or escaping the summer crowds at the coast, the Solete list helps you eat well without blowing the budget. Moreover, each entry tells a story—of tradition, creativity, or sheer local popularity.
And it’s easy to find your perfect spot. The interactive map on the Guía Repsol site lets you search by region, town, or even type of venue. It’s an insider’s guide for those who’ve already ticked off the tourist traps and are hungry for the real Spain.
Repsol Soles: Spain’s culinary stars also honoured
While Soletes highlight the casual, Repsol’s annual Soles continue to honour Spain’s most refined culinary talents. In March 2025, 90 restaurants were awarded in a glittering ceremony held in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Among them:
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Bagá in Jaén and La Finca in Elche both earned a rare third Sol, putting them in the top tier of Spain’s dining scene.
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The awards also spotlighted the next generation of chefs, with many honours going to young, innovative talent.
Why Soletes matter in 2025
In a year marked by rising costs and a growing appreciation for local culture, the 2025 Soletes list is a celebration of Spain’s culinary soul. These are the spots where families gather, where recipes haven’t changed in decades, or where a new twist is served with an old smile. They’re affordable, authentic, and absolutely worth the detour.
Whether you’re seeking a spontaneous tapas stop, an ice cream under the Spanish sun, or a mountain lunch with a view, the new Soletes are your passport to eating like a local—one small sun at a time.