Look for the rustic popular spot at Calle del Franco (Santiago de Compostela). It is the Taberna Gato Negro, one of the last remaining traditional taverns, famous for its fantastic stews.

Cockles (delicious and fresh), xoubas (small sardines) and mussels with pickled onions are all popular, but we recommend the Pulpo a la gallega was excellent, octopus with a paprika based seasoning, as were the Padron peppers, moreish, salty and with the Russian roulette aspect of whether you’ll get a spicy one or not. Gallician dishes…

The idea is to eat informally by trying some of the smaller dishes (known as raciones) served in the city’s bars.

• Keep reading about traditional restaurants in Santiago at this link. 
• The legend of Padron peppers
• where to get the best octopus along the Camino?