Marbella stands out as a gastronomic epicentre in southern Spain, blending its iconic Golden Mile with a high-end culinary offering that satisfies a sophisticated clientele. Renowned for its luxurious hotels and resorts, the city provides dining experiences that celebrate Andalusian tradition while embracing innovation. Here, we explore the top Michelin Star restaurants in Marbella, where contemporary Andalusian cuisine and fusion bring a unique charm to every dish.
Messina Restaurant: one of Michelin Star restaurants in Marbella
Mauricio Giovanini, originally from Córdoba, Argentina, has made a significant mark on Marbella’s gastronomy. From a young age, his interest in cooking led him to train at the Zafrán School, affiliated with the Argentine Institute of Gastronomy. After an initial stint at a beach bar in Marbella, he opened his own restaurant, Messina, in 2003, where he developed a distinctive culinary style.
Giovanini is celebrated for his innovative approach, earning his first Michelin star in 2016 and a Sol from the Repsol Guide. His cuisine, blending Italo-Argentinian-Mediterranean influences, is defined by masterful use of ingredient juices.
Since its inception, Messina has evolved into one of Marbella’s standout restaurants. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the restaurant has introduced “InsIDe Messina,” a new space where diners can delve into the creative kitchen process.
The tasting menu focuses on the quality of Andalusian ingredients, combining contemporary techniques with Italo-Argentinian inspirations. The elegant and welcoming atmosphere, paired with innovative cuisine, has solidified Messina’s reputation as a Costa del Sol icon.
Back Restaurant
David Olivas leads Back Restaurant in Marbella, a personal project in collaboration with sommelier Fabián Villar. With over a decade of experience under the renowned chef Dani García, Olivas has worked at prestigious establishments such as Tragabuches and Calima.
He trained at the La Laguna Hospitality School and interned at Martín Berasategui’s restaurant. Recognised with awards like Best Head Chef in 2019 and Best Creative Cuisine Restaurant in 2020, Olivas has built a stellar reputation.
Since opening in 2016, Back has transformed from a tapas concept into a more refined dining experience. Initially located in an unassuming spot, its vibrant cuisine quickly garnered attention. Over time, the space has evolved, removing the bar and enhancing the decor to create a tranquil environment.
Olivas’s cuisine remains bold and innovative, offering a menu that fuses traditional dishes with contemporary touches, blending local ingredients with global influences. This is showcased perfectly in their tasting menus.
Nintai Restaurant
Nintai, the creation of Marcos Granda, has become a benchmark for authentic sushi in Spain. With a capacity of just 12 diners, this intimate space earned a Michelin star in less than a year.
The talented team at Nintai perfects every detail of the sushi experience, from the rice to the seasonal fish. Their omakase menus invite diners to trust the chef, delivering a unique culinary journey with dishes prepared fresh on the spot.
The tasting menu begins with zensai, small appetizers reflecting the essence of Japanese cuisine, and continues with dishes like otsukuri (raw fish) and mushimono (steamed dishes). Each creation stands out for its balance of flavours and impeccable technique, making Nintai a must-visit for sushi enthusiasts.
Skina Restaurant
Asturian sommelier and restaurateur Marcos Granda has left an indelible mark on haute cuisine. Owner of Skina in Marbella, where he has earned two Michelin stars, Granda also shines with Nintai and boasts stars for Ayalga (Ribadesella) and Clos (Madrid).
His career began with Manolo de la Osa and includes experiences at El Bulli and The Greenhouse in London. Since opening Skina in 2004, it has become a culinary landmark, celebrating the essence of Andalusia through its cuisine.
At Skina, the team offers a unique gastronomic and wine experience designed for just ten guests. With two Michelin stars and a wine list boasting over 950 selections, the restaurant pays homage to Andalusian culinary tradition through its tasting menu. Here, ancestral recipes are reinterpreted with respect and sustainability, guided by local produce and a network of trusted suppliers to ensure a memorable dining experience.
SOLLO Restaurant
Diego Gallegos, known as the “caviar chef”, is a celebrated cook and researcher, awarded a Michelin star, two Repsol Suns, and the Michelin Green Star for sustainability.
Born in Brazil and based in Málaga, Gallegos left a career in law to train as a chef. In 2013, he opened his first restaurant, SOLLO, in Benalmádena, and also oversees Arara Bistrobar and The Beach Club Higuerón, where diverse culinary influences shine.
At SOLLO, Gallegos offers a sustainable gastronomic proposal focused on river fish and home-grown vegetables. Using aquaponics systems, he ensures full traceability of ingredients from seed to plate.
His cuisine highlights Mediterranean diversity, featuring fresh vegetables and freshwater fish on the tasting menu. The gastro-aquaponics concept combines gastronomy with aquaponics, ensuring a constant supply of fresh ingredients through a water recirculation system of over 12,000 litres.
To make the most of your Michelin-starred dining experience, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. Prepare for a journey that can last several hours, where each dish is presented with meticulous attention to detail. Dressing appropriately and being open to trying new flavours are key to fully enjoying Marbella’s luxurious gastronomy.
Marbella is a true gastronomic paradise, offering a rich variety of culinary experiences at its Michelin-starred restaurants. Each venue highlights the best of contemporary Andalusian cuisine while incorporating global influences, promising an unforgettable experience. Visiting these restaurants is an invitation to explore Marbella’s culinary excellence—a journey you won’t want to miss!