There is far more to Marbella than yachts, cocktails and golden beaches: this is also a city that enjoys its food. In its streets, traditional Andalusian cooking — the smells of marinated dogfish, ‘ajo blanco’ cold soup and skewered sardines — mingles happily with haute cuisine dishes created by chefs such as Dani García, which have placed the city on the Michelin map. From stand-up beach bars to signature temples of gastronomy in the Golden Mile, Marbella offers a culinary journey that is both diverse and delicious, where every stop brings the discovery of a new aspect of its cosmopolitan soul.
- The best restaurants in Marbella: haute cuisine and tradition on the Costa del Sol
- Eating well, but cheaply in Marbella: tasty food that suits everyone’s budget
- Restaurants near the beach in Marbella: beach clubs with a good gastronomic offering
The best restaurants in Marbella: haute cuisine and tradition on the Costa del Sol
Marbella’s gastronomic scene reflects the city’s sophistication and its cultural diversity. Its most outstanding establishments include NOBU Restaurant & Lounge, the first restaurant in Spain opened by the renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Located on the Golden Mile, this restaurant blends Japanese cuisine with Peruvian influences, serving dishes such as black cod with miso and sea bass tiradito. Its modern, stylish ambience makes it a favourite haunt of lovers of haute cuisine.
Another flagship restaurant is Leña Marbella, a creation by the chef Dani García. This innovative grill, located inside the Puente Romano hotel, is a reinterpretation of the traditional steakhouse, combining grilling techniques with international influences. Dishes such as ‘Steak Tomahawk’ and the ‘Hamburger that makes sense of it all’ are two of the highlights of its menu. The restaurant’s design has won international recognition, and provides a culinary experience that is as much a delight for the eyes as it is for the taste buds.
For those seeking a more intimate experience, Restaurante Skina, which has been awarded two Michelin stars, offers a menu based on local, seasonal ingredients. Located in the city’s old quarter, this small establishment produces impressive signature cooking and boasts an extensive wine cellar. The dedication and creativity invested by the team in every dish make this place a culinary gem in the heart of Marbella.
Eating well, but cheaply in Marbella: tasty food that suits everyone’s budget
Enjoying Marbella’s gastronomy does not necessarily mean spending a lot of money. There are numerous places where you can enjoy delicious food at reasonable prices. Frankie’s Fish & Chips is just one example: specialising in British-style fried fish, this eatery has become highly popular thanks to the quality of its food and its friendly atmosphere.
Another possibility is El Abrevadero, known for its generous tapas portions and its informal atmosphere. Here, guests can enjoy a wide range of traditional Andalusian dishes without blowing their budget.
For those who love international cuisine, Mumbai City Marbella offers authentic Indian cooking at affordable prices. Their lamb curry and chicken tikka masala are highly recommended by regular customers. And if you like Lebanese cuisine, Yaba Of has grown in popularity due to the quality of its food and its welcoming atmosphere.
Restaurants near the beach in Marbella: beach clubs with a good gastronomic offering
Eating by the sea is one of the most pleasurable experiences that Marbella can offer. Trocadero Playa is a beach club that combines an excellent gastronomic offering with impressive views of the sea. Its Mediterranean cooking, with international touches, includes rice dishes, fresh fish and barbecued meats.
Playa Padre is another establishment whose reputation has blossomed thanks to its lively ambience and its menu. Located on El Cable beach, this beach club serves a fusion of Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine, with dishes such as seafood tacos and fresh ceviche. In addition, its programme of DJ sessions and events make it the perfect spot to combine gastronomy and fun by the sea.
For a more relaxed experience, The Beach House in Elviria offers a quiet atmosphere with a particularly impressive menu of fresh seafood and grilled dishes. This is the ideal place to enjoy a leisurely lunch while watching the lapping waves.
