The best anchovy in the world comes from the Cantabrian Sea (and the Italians knew it) February 11, 2026 0 8 The best anchovy in the world comes from the Cantabrian Sea (and the Italians knew it) The best anchovy in the world comes from the Cantabrian Sea (and the Italians knew it) cant The anchovy, scientifically known as Engraulis encrasicolus, was already being fished in the Mediterranean. But it wasn't the same. In the cold, turbulent waters of the Cantabrian Sea, this small fish develops firmer, fattier, more flavorful flesh, perfect for slow, precise salting. The Italians discovered it at the end of the 19th century… and it wasn't by chance. It was then when Santoña, a ...