Indulge in culinary delights at the best restaurants in Costa del Sol!
There are so many things to do in Southern Spain that you’ll need all your energy, and with that in mind, you’re going to want some great food to keep you going!
The great news is that there is an enormous range of different available types of food in Costa del Sol.
Whether you’re eager to try the local cuisine or eat something a little more familiar, you’ll be spoiled for choice when you’re browsing the menu of the best restaurants in Costa del Sol.
Food has such an important part to play when you’re traveling, and can have an integral role in your experience, especially when you immerse yourself in the region’s culture by experimenting with local cuisine.
So, read on to discover our top picks for some of our favorite restaurants on Costa del Sol that are sure to satisfy your tastebuds.
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Overview: Our favorite restaurants in Costa del Sol
1. El Pimpi, Málaga
If you’re wondering where to eat in Malaga, our number one recommendation is El Pimpi.
The most famous restaurant in the area, this bodega in the heart of the city, is well-known for its support of local produce and traditions.
Famous politicians, artists, and flamenco performers have dined here, with some well-known names, including Picasso and Antonio Banderas.
Originally established in 1971, its atmospheric interior boasts photos of the various celebrities who have walked through its doors, while the trailing plants add a rustic feel to the vibe.
You can dine on traditional tapas here, including seafood, stews, and the local jamon, while sipping a delightfully cold beer, but bear in mind that at peak times, it can be extremely crowded.
Try to find a seat on the outdoor terrace where you can enjoy views of the palace that lies opposite you as you enjoy your meal. In an ideal location for sightseers, this bar makes an ideal stopping point for a tasty lunch.
2. Dani García Restaurante, Marbella
Marbella is one of the most popular areas in Costa del Sol for tourists to visit, especially as it’s well-known for its luxurious properties and exclusive feel.
In keeping with this upmarket atmosphere, you should aim to head to one of the restaurants belonging to the Michelin-starred Dani Garcia.
This famous Andalucian chef has five establishments in the city, each offering something unique and different.
Perhaps the best, especially for meat lovers, is Lena at the Hotel Puente Romano. Serving delicious steaks alongside delectable grilled meats like mouthwatering pork loin and leg of milk-fed lamb.
This restaurant, which has won the 2021 award for the most beautiful restaurant, offers a high-class ambiance that is hard to beat.
3. Restaurante La Casa del Bandolero, Ronda
Located just outside the popular town of Ronda, La Casa del Bandolero is a hotel and restaurant in a spectacular setting in Juzcar, a village that has the distinction of being the only blue village in Spain.
Its stunning blue-painted walls certainly catch the eye, and the hotel’s restaurant is well-known in the area, regularly receiving celebrities to dine there.
The home-cooked food is authentic and delicious, with seafood paella being one of the favorites on the menu, although you’ll need to preorder the day before.
Guests report excellent feedback on this hidden gem of a venue, highly praising its location, its cuisine, and its welcoming atmosphere.
4. Chiringuito El Tintero, Málaga
When considering what to eat in Malaga, seafood is likely to be high on your list.
For this, you should head to the Chiringuito El Tintero, which is located in the traditional neighborhood of local fishermen, El Palo.
This emblematic restaurant is extremely popular with locals and can get extremely busy, adding liveliness, noise, and color that reflect an authentic Malagueno experience.
If you’re heading to the coast to participate in watersports in Malaga and Costa del Sol, this spot is perfectly suited for a tasty lunch or dinner.
Boasting a lovely beachfront location, this restaurant may have a basic hut-type structure, but its casual atmosphere and wonderfully fresh specialties and seafood offerings make it a hit with tourists and locals alike.
The unique way to order really makes this eatery stand out from the crowd. Instead of ordering from a menu, you shout or wave to the waiter when a dish comes out of the kitchen, and you’ll be served immediately.
Sharks, dogfish, and anchovies are the three stars of this restaurant’s offerings.
5. Messina, Marbella
When planning where to stay in Costa del Sol, it’s possible that Marbella may be your number one choice of resort.
Known as one of the best towns in Costa del Sol to visit if you’re seeking a luxurious stay, Marbella is home to some truly fine dining experiences, including those at Messina.
Established over 20 years ago, this Michelin-starred eatery offers two impressive tasting menus, including delicious dishes like Iberian pork loin with roasted spring onions and lentil cream and king prawns, service with tomato and creamed polenta.
A wonderfully modern take on traditional Mediterranean classics, fusing them with international flavors, this is an exclusive place for a celebratory lunch or dinner.
6. Restaurante José Carlos García, Málaga
Malaga is certainly one of the best places in Costa del Sol to head to if you’re eager to sample Michelin-starred food thanks to the Restaurante Jose Carlos Garcia.
Focusing strongly on local produce, this eaterie at the port offers an intimate dining experience so you can really savor the dishes.
Meanwhile, the glass-enclosed kitchen allows you to admire the chefs at work. It’s one of the best things to do in Malaga!
7. La Alcaría de Ramos, Estepona
If dining is high on your list of things to do in Estepona, you should head to La Alcaria de Ramos.
With a family-friendly atmosphere paired with a pretty garden setting, this restaurant serves up classic Spanish dishes but with a creative modern twist.
Some of the top menu items include the filet steak, the Iberico ham, and tasty homemade pate, served with breadsticks.
8. Trocadero Arena, Marbella
One of the best resorts in Costa del Sol for foodies, Marbella’s Trocadero Arena offers a fantastic beach club dining experience.
It serves up seafood specialties and classic Mediterranean cuisine that is sure to tantalize the taste buds.
Perhaps the best thing about this eaterie is its coastal setting, allowing you to dine right by the sea.
9. El Lago, Marbella
As you might guess from its name, El Lago boasts a fabulous setting on the shores of a beautiful lake.
Elegant and exclusive, this fine dining experience serves up Michelin-starred cuisine using seasonal ingredients to produce sophisticated, mouthwatering dishes.
If you’re a wine connoisseur, you’ll especially love this spot since you can benefit from sommelier recommendations and fantastic wine pairings that will truly complement your meal.
10. La Moraga, Málaga
If you’re looking for things to do Fuengirola, why not take a trip along to Malaga to enjoy a meal at La Moraga?
This contemporary tapas bar has a modern yet welcoming atmosphere, all helped by the varied drinks menu, with its stand-out signature cocktails.
The creative taps and small plates allow you to try out many delicious local foods so you can explore a range of Andalucian flavors.
You can also join Malaga tapas tours if the restaurant is full or not open when you visit there.
11. Venta Garcia, Casares
If you’re taking one of the excursions in Costa del Sol to Casares, you should take the time to stop in at the Venta Garcia to experience its countryside setting and true rustic charm.
Here, you can sample some traditional Andalusian fare in an authentic environment while appreciating the warm hospitality of the hosts. You’re sure to find it a memorable dining experience.
12. Restaurante Bardal, Ronda
One of the top things to do in Benalmadena is to take a day trip to Ronda.
And while you’re in this traditional Andalucian town, you should make a beeline to the Restaurante Bardal where you can enjoy innovative Michelin-starred dining.
The chef here focuses on sourcing all ingredients locally, and the result is a memorable dining experience that is highly appreciated by guests from all over the world.
Our final thoughts on eating in Costa del Sol
It’s no wonder that so many festivals in Costa del Sol center around food since the region boasts so many exciting and diverse dining options.
During your stay in the region, you should certainly take the time to try out as many different restaurants as you can so that you can enjoy the full gamut of dining experience that Andalucia can offer.
Whether you’re passionate about Mediterranean food, enjoy discovering fusion dishes, or want to try some of the region’s very best tapas, there are restaurants on our list of recommendations that are sure to take your fancy.
FAQs on Best Restaurants in Costa del Sol
What kind of food do they serve in the Costa del Sol?
You can find restaurants serving all types of cuisine in the Costa del Sol, however some of the best food you’ll find is the local tapas which reflects the region’s cultural heritage.
Where can you find the best food in Costa del Sol?
All of the towns, cities and villages in the Costa del Sol have excellent restaurants, however you’ll find some of the most highly praised eateries in Marbella and Malaga.
Are there family-friendly restaurants in Costa del Sol?
While some of the top Michelin-starred restaurants in Costa del Sol offer an exclusive experience best suited to adults, there are plenty of eateries that are ideal for families, especially those that offer outdoor dining and children’s menus.
Hola, I’m Paulina! Together with my team, we are passionate about Southern Spain. Here we share all you need to know for great times in Southern Spain with the best places to visit, stay and, of course, the best food to eat.
Let’s dive in and explore Southern Spain’s outdoors, food and culture con pasión!