
The city of Marbella is one of the most spectacular destinations on the Costa del Sol. Blessed with over 320 days of sunshine a year, it is a favourite place to visit thanks to its luxury, glamour, culture, and gastronomy. Located in the western part of the Costa del Sol, Marbella is home to the highest concentration of restaur ants in the region. This makes the city not only uniquely charming for its magnificent beaches, expansive golf courses, and one of Europe’s most prestigious marinas, but also renowned for its outstanding culinary offering.
There are plenty of dining options in Marbella — from enjoying traditional tapas in the most picturesque bars in the old town, tasting the best of Italian cuisine, and savouring a delicious espeto at beachfront chiringuitos, to indulging in haute cuisine at Michelin-starred restaurants. Let yourself be guided by some of our top recommendations for dining in Marbella.

To talk about Marbella is to talk about tapas. In the old town, surrounded by cobbled streets and lively squares, tapas become both a social ritual and a gastronomic adventure. From classic boquerones fritos, salmorejo or ensaladilla rusa to contemporary creations with an international twist, the city offers the perfect fusion between tradition and modern cuisine. Spots such as El Estrecho, La Niña del Pisto or Taberna Gaspar are must-visits for those eager to savour authentic Andalusian flavours paired with a glass of local wine or a perfectly chilled beer.

The Costa del Sol is the ideal setting to enjoy a perfect rice dish, and Marbella is no exception. From classic seafood paellas to black rice or creamy lobster stews, the options are as varied as they are delicious. Exquisite rice dishes by the sea at Los Mellizos Marbella, or at restaurants like El Ancla and Victor’s Beach, combine the finest ingredients with stunning Mediterranean views. The secret lies in the perfect rice texture, premium produce, and the chef’s personal touch—turning every dish into a tribute to the flavours of southern Spain.

Beach bars, or chiringuitos, are an institution in Marbella. More than just seaside restaurants, they’re places where time slows down amid the aroma of grilled sardines and the sound of the waves. From San Pedro de Alcántara to Cabopino—and of course, in Puerto Banús—these coastal gems serve pescaíto frito, fresh seafood, and cocktails by the sunset. Local favourites like Mistral Beach, La Pesquera Banús and Aurora Beach capture the spirit of Marbella: relaxed, stylish, and deeply Mediterranean.

Marbella also shines for its culinary excellence. The city is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants that have placed the Costa del Sol firmly on the international gastronomic map. Local chefs combine creativity, precision, and emotion to elevate Andalusian cuisine to new heights. Restaurants such as Skina, Nintai and Back, among others, offer unique tasting experiences where each dish tells its own story. A true gourmet journey that reflects Marbella’s evolution and prestige as one of Europe’s leading fine dining destinations.