Foodie’s Paradise: 50+ Fantastic Restaurants on the Costa del Sol
We’re sure you don’t need a lot of guidance when it comes to finding amazing places to eat around the Costa del Sol, especially near your vacation property. But, we do get occasional requests for our personal recommendations, honed from years of living and eating our way across the coast! So, we’ve put together this carefully curated list of restaurants where you can enjoy state-of-the-art cuisine catering to all tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re craving traditional tapas, innovative fine dining, or have specific intolerances or limitations, there’s a place for everyone here.
Here is a special offer for you! Snap a pic of your delicious meal at any of these fantastic restaurants and tag us @ and @4yourhome.esholidayrentals on Instagram and Facebook for a chance to receive a bottle of exsquisit wine or a delicious local organic olive oil with your next booking! → https://4yourhome.es/holiday-rentals/rental/
A Foodie’s Paradise: 50+ Must-Try Restaurants on the Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol, with its sunny beaches and vibrant culture, is truly a feast for the senses. But beyond the stunning scenery lies a culinary landscape just waiting to be explored. From Michelin-starred marvels to hidden local gems, this coastal paradise offers a diverse range of dining experiences that will tantalize your taste buds. Here’s our list of 50+ restaurants you absolutely must try on your next visit to the Costa del Sol: (And please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like even more personalized advice on this tasty list!)
Michelin Star Magic:
- Skina (Marbella): This two-Michelin-starred restaurant boasts innovative Andalusian cuisine with a modern twist. https://www.restauranteskina.com
- Messina (Marbella): A one-Michelin-starred establishment offering a creative tasting menu that showcases seasonal ingredients. https://restaurantemessina.com
- Back (Marbella): Alternative winery, table service, a liquor trolley and a selection of cheeses on a trolley to enjoy a contemporary vision of traditional Andalusian cuisine, but always with a window open to the world. www.backrestaurante.com
- Nintai (Marbella): Nintai is limited to twelve exclusive seats around a wooden bar where the itamae subtly slices the fish and prepares impeccable sushi. www.restaurantenintai.com
Fine Dining Delights:
- Roostiq (Marbella): Unique Experience. Fire is the origin of everything. In this kitchen, fire is our work tool and at the center of all our Neapolitan wood-fired oven. https://marbella.roostiq.com/en/
- Sollo (Fuengirola): Diego Gallegos’ innovative restaurant focuses on sustainable seafood and has earned a Michelin star for its efforts. https://www.sollo.es/en/
- Amanhavis (Benahavís): Nestled in the mountains, this restaurant offers breathtaking views and a refined menu with a focus on local produce. https://www.amanhavis.com
El Lago (Marbella): Enjoy stunning views of a lake while savoring exquisite modern cuisine at this Michelin-starred restaurant. https://www.restauranteellago.com
Beachfront Bliss:
- Beach Club Marbella Club: Relaxed beach club and restaurant offering a sophisticated take on classic dishes. Elegant and laid-back vibe. https://www.marbellaclub.com/es/gastro/beach-club
- Chiringuito Puente Romano: Beachfront chiringuito with a lively atmosphere, serving fresh seafood and cocktails. Perfect for a casual beach day. https://www.puenteromano.com/dining-drinks/chiringuito/
- Trocadero Arena (Marbella): Dine with your toes in the sand at this stylish beach club and restaurant. Website https://grupotrocadero.com/trocadero-arena-marbella-restaurante/
- La Milla (Marbella): Enjoy fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavors with stunning sea views at this chic beachfront restaurant. https://lamillamarbella.com
- Los Mellizos (Marbella): This popular beachfront restaurant is known for its paella and lively atmosphere. https://losmellizos.net
- Nosso (Estepona) Contemporary European cuisine with creative flair. Stylish and modern setting. https://nosso.es
- Sublim Beach Club (Estepona): Avant-garde gastronomic experience combining cuisine, technology, and art. (Note: This is a very high-end, multi-sensory dining experience.) https://www.sublimbeach.com/sobre-nosotros/
Tapas and Wine Bars:
- El Pimpi (Málaga): A Málaga institution, this traditional tapas bar offers a wide variety of Andalusian specialties and a lively atmosphere. https://www.elpimpi.com
- El Pimpi (Marbella): A Marbella outpost of the Málaga institution, offering a similar atmosphere and menu. https://www.elpimpi.com
- La Tranca (Marbella): This cozy tapas bar is a local favorite, http://www.latranca.es
- Asador Origen: Enjoy one of the best meat on the grill in Marbella. www.origenasador.com
- Paladar Taberna (Marbella): A tapas bar with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and creative dishes located in Hotel Lima. https://hotellimamarbella.com/paladar-taberna/
International Flavors:
- Nobu Marbella: Experience world-renowned Japanese cuisine with a Peruvian twist at this stylish restaurant. https://www.noburestaurants.com/marbella/home
- BiBo Supperclub (Marbella): Dani García’s more casual offering features a diverse menu with international influences. https://grupodanigarcia.com/bibo/marbella/
- Lobito de Mar Marbella: Dani García’s take on a traditional “chiringuito” with a focus on seafood. https://grupodanigarcia.com/lobito-de-mar/marbella/?utm_source=GBUSINESS
- Takumi (Marbella): Contemporary Japanese cuisine with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. https://www.restaurantetakumi.com
- Takumi (Málaga): A second location of the popular Japanese restaurant.
Hidden Gems:
- La Casita (Marbella): This charming restaurant tucked away in the Old Town offers delicious home-cooked Andalusian cuisine. https://www.instagram.com/la_casita_marbella/?hl=es
- Restaurante Garum (Marbella): A hidden gem offering traditional Spanish cuisine with a modern twist. https://garummarbella.com/en/
- La Cala (Benalmádena): Enjoy stunning sea views and delicious Mediterranean cuisine at this restaurant perched on a cliff. https://lacalarestaurant.com
- Lekune Pintxos and tapas, very unique experience. https://guiademalaga.net/lekune-bar-de-pintxos-marbella/
Societe 11:11 A whole journey on your table! Mexican-Middle East. www.1111societe.com
Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free:
- Organic Food and Market Marbellaområdet https://organicmarketfood.com
- Alcuzcuz Gallery (Benahavís): Enjoy stunning views and a sophisticated vegan menu at this restaurant located in the mountains. https://alcuzcuz.es/gastronomia/
- Celicioso (Marbella): A haven for those with celiac disease, offering a completely gluten-free menu with a wide variety of choices. https://celicioso.shop
- Rachels Eco Love www.rachelsecolove.com/en/our-story
- The Farm (Marbella): Slow food, at km “0”, organic, transparency and creativity with the aim of creating a vibrant and warm environment where you can enjoy life. https://thefarm-marbella.com
Unique Experiences:
- Finca Cortesin (Casares): Enjoy a luxurious dining experience at this Michelin-starred restaurant located within a stunning golf resort. https://www.fincacortesin.com/restaurants
- Puente Romano Beach Resort (Marbella): This resort offers a variety of dining options, including beachfront restaurants and a Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant. https://www.puenteromano.com/es/restaurantes-y-bares/
- Marbella Club Hotel (Marbella): This iconic hotel boasts several restaurants, including a beachfront grill and a fine dining establishment. https://www.marbellaclub.com/es
- ERRE & Urrechu (Marbella): Located in the Gran Melia Don Pepe hotel, this restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with stunning sea views. https://www.melia.com/es/hoteles/espana/marbella/don-pepe-gran-melia/restaurantes
- Forum Marbella: Recently opened offering fine dining and shopping experience. https://www.forum.es/es/restaurants
- La Leña (Marbella): Modern Spanish cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Cozy and stylish ambiance. By Dani García. https://grupodanigarcia.com/lena/marbella/
Local Favorites:
- Bar El Estrecho (Málaga): This traditional bar is a local favorite for its fresh seafood and tapas. https://www.barelestrecho.com
- Bodega Charolais (Marbella): This restaurant is known for its excellent meat dishes and traditional Andalusian cuisine. https://www.bodegacharolais.com
- El Ancla (San Pedro de Alcántara): Enjoy fresh seafood with stunning sea views at this popular restaurant. https://www.elanclarestaurante.com
- Taberna La Niña del Pisto (Marbella): Traditional Andalusian cuisine with a focus on pisto (a ratatouille-like dish). Casual and authentic atmosphere. https://restaurante.covermanager.com/la-nina-del-pisto/
- Sylt (Marbella): Mediterranean fine dining with a focus on seafood. Elegant and sophisticated ambiance. https://sites.google.com/view/sylt-marbella/home
- La Fonda Heritage Hotel (Marbella): This hotel houses a restaurant serving traditional Andalusian cuisine in a charming, historic setting. Feel the buzz of the city at night at the Sky Bar, soak up the lively energy of La Fonda Restaurant, or enjoy breakfast & lunch on Los Patios https://www.lafondaheritagehotel.com/en/overview-dining.html
- Boho (Marbella): Chic restaurant and club with a bohemian vibe. Offers a modern European menu with Asian influences. https://bohoclub.com/es/restaurante
- Alba by Serafina (Marbella): Italian restaurant specializing in fresh pasta and seafood. Elegant and stylish atmosphere. https://albabyserafina.com
- Cafe Flore (Marbella): French-inspired café and bistro with a charming ambiance. Offers classic French dishes and pastries. https://www.cafeflore.es
- Balcón de la Virgen (Marbella): Restaurant with stunning panoramic views, serving traditional Spanish cuisine with a modern twist. https://www.elbalcondelavirgen.com/english/
- Candeal (Marbella): Fine dining restaurant offering a tasting menu showcasing innovative Andalusian cuisine. https://restaurantecandeal.com
- Entre Limones Hotel Fuerte (Marbella): Entre Limones dishes always have a creative factor in the form of citrus, spicy, crunchy or even touches that take us to other countries. When the dish arrives at the table it does so quickly, with a clear presentation where the product is the star. https://entrelimones.com/nuestro-menu
If you prefer to dine nearby, you’ll find a list of restaurants within easy reach of your 4YOURHOME.ES rental property below:
- PapaO: Local Chiringuito with traditional andalusian dishes https://maps.app.goo.gl/eTsu1ykGVbe6o2K6A
- Cocoa Beacc: Lovely modern beach restaurant https://www.cocoamarbella.com
- Alberts Bar&Grill: Located on the quaint little port of Cabopino. https://www.alberts-cabopino.com/
- Chiringuito La Luna: Beach restaurant. https://lunabeachrestaurante.com
- Max Beach An authentic boho style and laid back atmosphere. https://www.maxbeach.es
- Rocca Grill: Argentinian Restaurant https://roccagrill.es/en/home/
Important notice: Restaurant opening times vary by season and day of the week. Please check their hours before you go, especially during the winter months.
TIPS FOR SPECIAL AND AUTHENTIC DISHES:
Now that you know where to go, our dear food lovers, listen up! Want to unlock the true taste of the Costa del Sol? Here’s the inside scoop on finding those hidden gems and savoring authentic flavors:
- Ditch the tourist traps: Venture off the main streets and discover those cozy family-run places where the locals eat. Trust us, that’s where the magic happens!
- Lunch like a local: Embrace the “menú del día” – a delicious, affordable set menu that lets you sample all the good stuff.
- Seafood is king: This is a coastal paradise, people! Dive into fresh catches like grilled sardines (“espetos”), fried fish (“fritura malagueña”), and garlic shrimp (“gambas al pil-pil”).
- Tapas time: Don’t just order one dish, order ALL the tapas! It’s the Spanish way to taste a bit of everything.
Ask the experts: Your waiter or bartender knows the local secrets. Ask for their recommendations and you won’t be disappointed.
Top 20 + Dishes You Absolutely HAVE to Try:
- Espetos: Skewered sardines grilled over an open fire – a true taste of the Costa del Sol.
- Fritura Malagueña: A platter of crispy, fried fish, perfect with a squeeze of lemon.
- Gambas al Pil-Pil: Shrimp sizzling in garlic and chili oil – get ready for some serious flavor!
- Patatas Bravas: Crispy potatoes with a spicy sauce – a tapas classic.
- Jamón Ibérico: Thinly sliced cured ham, melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Croquetas: Fried béchamel bites, often filled with ham, cheese, or mushrooms.
- Paella: A saffron-infused rice dish with seafood, chicken, or vegetables. (Be sure to try different varieties like paella de marisco (seafood), paella mixta (mixed), and paella de verduras (vegetable).
- Gazpacho: A refreshing cold tomato soup, perfect for a hot day.
- Churros con Chocolate: Fried dough sticks dipped in thick hot chocolate – the ultimate sweet treat.
- Turrón: A Spanish nougat confection, often enjoyed during the holidays.
- Cochinillo Asado: Slow-roasted suckling pig with crispy skin and tender meat – a true delicacy.
- Solomillo al Whisky: Tenderloin steak in a creamy whisky sauce, a classic of Spanish fine dining.
- Arroz con Leche: Creamy rice pudding with a hint of cinnamon, a comforting dessert.
- Salmorejo: A chilled tomato soup thicker than gazpacho, originating in Cordoba.
- Flamenquín: A rolled pork loin filled with jamón ibérico, breaded and fried – a Cordoban specialty.
- Ajoblanco: A cold almond and garlic soup, perfect for a hot summer day.
- Tortillitas de Camarones: Crispy fritters made with tiny shrimp, a Cadiz classic.
- Alcachofas: Artichokes prepared in various ways – fried, grilled, or with a sauce. (Try alcachofas a la montillana– artichokes with jamón and sherry.)
- Boquerones en Vinagre: Fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar, garlic, and parsley.
- Pulpo a la Gallega: Tender octopus drizzled with olive oil and paprika.
- Tortilla Española: A classic Spanish omelet with potatoes and onions.
- Ensaladilla Rusa: A creamy potato salad with tuna, peas, and carrots.
- Mejillones: Mussels, often steamed in white wine, garlic, and herbs.
- Pisto: (also known as pisto manchego) is a Spanish dish originally from the Region of Murcia, Castilla La Mancha og Extremadura. Deliciously made of tomatoes, onions, eggplanteller courgettes, green and red pepper, and olive oil.
¡Buen provecho! Bon appétit. Contact us today if you need any assistance! ➡️ https://4yourhome.es/contact/