Bodeguilla del Gato in Valencia's Carmen serves the canonical bomba (deep-fried potato-and-meat ball) for around 3 euros, the after-cana counter snack.
Try: Bomba (fried potato croquette)
Tip: Tiny corner bar; arrive before 21:00 for a seat. Closed Sunday and Monday.
Chocolateria Valor on Placa de la Reina in Valencia serves thick hot chocolate with churros for around 6 euros, the chain that anchored the Spanish chocolate.
Try: Hot chocolate and churros
Tip: Open daily through the day. The chocolate is thicker than a milkshake; eat slowly with the churros.
Kiosko La Pergola on the Malvarrosa beach paseo offers a beachfront paella-and-drink menu for 15 euros at lunch, the bargain rice plate of the beachfront.
Try: Paella menu del dia
Tip: Lunch only and seasonal (closed winter). Reserve the terrace one week ahead in summer.
Navarro on Carrer de l'Arquebisbe Mayoral in Valencia runs one of the city's best-value menu del dia plates at lunchtime, with paella, a main and dessert.
Try: Menu del dia (paella, second, dessert, wine)
Tip: Mon to Fri lunch only. Arrive before 14:00 to find a seat at the small dining room.