Best Restaurants in Málaga: Our Top 10 Favourites

Gastronomy is one of the first points of contact with a city. When we travel, it’s common to ask what to eat and, above all, where to eat. Because in this world of cuisine, there are tastes for everyone. Some prefer classic flavours, others enjoy the most traditional places, and some opt for a more unique restaurant experience. Fortunately, Málaga has many diverse restaurants, and generally speaking, they are excellent. We are in a city that particularly caters to tourists, making it rare to have a bad experience.

What Are Restaurants in Málaga Like?

Recently, they have grown exponentially, so you can find just about anything. Naturally, the most common dish is fried fish (pescaíto frito), especially in the beach bars scattered along the coast. However, the city centre is full of options: international cuisine, vegetarian spots, market-style dining… And of course, there are choices for vegans and those with food intolerances.

Here is our top 10 list of the best restaurants in Málaga. Enjoy!

Misuto: Fusion cuisine with Japanese sophistication

Among our favourite restaurants in Málaga is this sushi bar, which also offers exquisite dishes from Mediterranean cuisine. However, it has a fusion twist that will delight anyone looking for something different. Misuto, located in the heart of Pedregalejo, has two features that we absolutely love. The first is that it is almost on the beach, making it all the more appealing. The second is a menu that is a true explosion of flavours. On one hand, they offer an extensive selection of Mediterranean dishes, predominantly featuring fish (but there’s something for everyone). On the other hand, there is an incredible variety of sushi (nigiri, sashimi, maki, and much more) that will delight fans of these Japanese bites.

Mamuchis: World Cuisine Between Soho and the Harbour

In one of the most cosmopolitan areas of the city, we find Mamuchis (Casas de Campos, 27). In a cosy atmosphere, with decor that resembles more of a Cuban paladar than a restaurant, you can savour dishes from a diverse menu. Cuban, Moroccan, Mexican, Greek, Asian cuisine… it’s the perfect place if you’re in the mood to try something truly different.

The Bar at Mercado de Atarazanas: Perfect for Mid-Morning Tapas

Mercado de Atarazanas is one of those places worth stopping by. Located in the city centre, its Nasrid-style façade captivates visitors. Once inside, the hustle and bustle of one of the busiest markets in the city invites you to shop. However, as tourists, it may not be worth our while. Nevertheless, its bar is a pilgrimage site for both locals and visitors alike. You cannot leave without trying one of their unforgettable prawn or octopus skewers. The tuna and our pescaíto frito will also drive you wild.

Sansho: Korea and Japan Together

Voted by users as the best Japanese-influenced restaurant in the city, Sansho combines Korean and Japanese dishes in a minimalist setting. But forget about sushi, because while they do have it—and it’s very good—it’s so much more than that. Gyozas, teriyakis, sukiyakis, and a long list of other delights fill a menu that could easily belong in any restaurant in Tokyo… or Seoul! And let’s not forget their Korean rice and vegetables, which are absolutely delicious. One more thing: if you’re coeliac or vegan, this is the place for you. There are plenty of options available.

Clandestino: A Pioneer in ‘Different’ Cuisine in Málaga

One of the first restaurants in Málaga to stand out from typical Malagan cuisine was Clandestino. Located in the heart of the Jewish quarter, you might almost pass by its door without noticing it. Its decor is quite understated (it somewhat resembles an old tavern), but once inside, you’ll see that its menu is anything but ordinary. Incredible salads, pasta, rice dishes… there’s something for everyone. You shouldn’t miss trying their black rice with prawns and scallops. Another great advantage is that they offer group menus at very reasonable prices.

Citron: Cuisine at All Hours (and of Every Kind)

Very close to Clandestino, in Plaza de la Merced, you’ll find another one of those restaurants that everyone who tries it returns to: Citron. If you have gluten issues, they prepare dishes for you here. And what can we say about their menu… it’s a marvel. The spicy prawn salad deserves a monument, and the red curry (which isn’t on the menu but is usually available as a special) is simply exquisite. If you love woks, you’re in luck: there’s a wide variety of them.

El Pimpi Florida: Enjoying the Essence of Málaga

In El Palo, one of the most authentic neighbourhoods in Málaga, stands El Pimpi Florida. A monument to the traditional tavern, it features decor filled with photos and flamenco memorabilia that will make you feel immersed in the most genuine Málaga. However, don’t expect comfort. It’s a narrow bar where you eat and drink standing up. But oh, how well you’ll eat! Gambas al pil-pil, seafood, fried fish, and montaditos de lomo are just some of their delights. Be sure to arrive early, as it gets packed. And feel at home because, despite the discomforts, they will treat you like royalty.


Beach: top-notch seafood (and at laughable prices).

The Playa seafood restaurant is a bit out of the centre, but if you visit the Russian Art Museum to see its splendid collection, it’s right next door (Emilio Prados Street, 28). It’s a small and humble establishment, but with first-rate raw materials. The trick is to arrive early: the seafood arrives fresh first thing in the morning and as soon as it runs out, they close. And we assure you it always runs out. Why? It’s exquisite and the prices are truly democratic. A luxury for very little money.

José Carlos García: a Michelin star in the port of Málaga.

At Muelle Uno, one of the most touristy and revitalised areas of the city, one of the best chefs from Málaga has created a new space to awaken all five senses. José Carlos García has already established himself as a reference point, despite being relatively new. That said, as you can imagine, the prices are high. However, for those who want to indulge or can afford it, we recommend the tasting menu. It won’t leave you indifferent.

El Tintero, a bustling experience.

El Tintero, uno de los mejores restaurantes de Málaga

Visiting El Tintero (Avenida Salvador Allende, 340) comes with a warning: if you enjoy silence, this is not the restaurant for you. It’s one of the excellent beach bars that line the coast, but with a unique twist: you don’t order dishes; instead, they are paraded in front of you. The waiters sing out the trays they carry, and it’s up to you to grab a portion. Don’t worry, there’s always plenty coming out at all hours, though probably not in the order you’d prefer. This chaotic atmosphere of shouts and surprises goes beyond just the food, which is excellent. It’s a different experience that you’ll remember with a smile. What’s the specialty? Fried fish, of course! We had to celebrate our local product!

You already know which, in our opinion, are the best restaurants in Málaga. If you’re visiting and don’t know where to stay, with WonderStays you can book the best apartments right in the city centre and on the beach in Málaga.

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