Marbella – the perfect base for a foodie

Consider yourself a bit of a foodie?

A property in Marbella could be your perfect base.

Delicious food might not be the reason you, ultimately, choose to move to the Costa del Sol, but it’s definitely one of the major benefits of the region.

Marbella’s dining scene certainly holds its own against the big cities of the world.

This year, several establishments have been awarded Michelin Stars or recommended in the 2022 Michelin Guide. With so many restaurants offering the perfect combination of mouth-watering menus, impeccable service and delightful ambience, it’s little wonder that both local and international residents eat out most days.

Here are just a few of our favourite places.

5 of the best restaurants in Marbella

1. Skina

https://www.restauranteskina.com/en/

Two Michelin Stars – €€€€

Led by Marcos Granda, Skina is a warm, inviting restaurant that offers a unique food and wine experience. The menu is a celebration of Southern Spain, with seasonal ingredients and recipes that have been made in Andalusian homes for centuries – just re-created with a little imagination.

Think scallops served with gazpacho. Fresh fish and meats. Rich chocolatey desserts.

Divine.

Situated on a charming, whitewashed street in the Old Town, it’s a contemporary venue in a historic setting. Not only is it one of the best restaurants in Marbella, it’s also one of the smallest – with only four tables to choose from. If you fancy giving it a try, be sure to book in advance!

2. El Lago

https://restauranteellago.com/en/gastronomy/

One Michelin Star –  €€€

At the heart of Greenlife Golf Complex is a little haven of peace, tranquillity and delectable food.

El Lago is a modern dining room, with a stunning outdoor summer terrace that overlooks the lake. The perfect setting to enjoy the creative cuisine of its Málaga born chef – Fernando Villasclaras.

The tasting menu here – known as Sazón – takes you on a journey through Andalucía. Made from sustainable zero-mile ingredients, at the point of their perfect ripeness, it features classic flavours and original dishes that change with the seasons. High-quality cooking that’s worth stopping for.

3. Messina

https://www.restaurantemessina.com/en/

One Michelin Star – €€€

A very well-known restaurant in Marbella, located on the main road next to Amare Hotel.

Messina is run by the renowned chef, Mauricio Giovanini – who has explored beyond his Argentinian roots to develop a unique culinary style. One that combines Latin American, European, Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine, creating dishes that are simple yet elegant.

Supported by his wife – Pía Ninci – as Head Sommelier, the restaurant is the couple’s life project. Thanks to their passion, it’s gone from strength to strength since opening in 2003. And today, customers travel from all over the world to sample their seasonal ‘taste fusion’ dishes.

4. Nintai

https://restaurantenintai.com/

One Michelin Star – €€€€

Another Michelin-star venue courtesy of Marcos Granda.

Returning from Japan in 2019, Granda was amazed by the country’s respect for the finest ingredients. So much so, he was inspired to open Nintai – with this respect at its heart.

The restaurant itself is designed to create a feeling of serenity, with sleek lines, muted colours and large windows. And guests can choose to dine in private seating spaces or at a large sushi bar, where they can watch the chef work, create and improvise his ‘itamae’ style of cooking.

Various tasting menus are available, featuring seasonal produce freshly prepared. Given it’s a Japanese restaurant, you can expect intriguing desserts and the best sake selection in Spain.

5. Casa Eladio

https://www.restaurantecasaeladio.com/

Recommended by the Michelin Guide – €€

This is a classic restaurant in Marbella Old Town.

Founded in 1965, Casa Eladio is a family business that has been passed down through the generations. Once a humble local bar, almost 60 years later, it’s regarded as a highly prestigious establishment – currently run by the founder’s grandson, chef Carlos Cabello.

The menu features traditional Andalusian cuisine that’s been given a modern update. All dishes are created using the freshest local produce. And situated on one of the prettiest streets in the city, with its chic maritime-inspired décor, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy an evening.

Restaurants in Marbella for the modest budget

Marbella may have its fair share of Michelin Star restaurants, but they’re certainly not the only option.

Andalusians are very proud when it comes to their food. The quality of the dining scene – whether you’re a big spender or have a modest budget – is very high across the board. So when you live in a property in Marbella, eating out and enjoying exquisite dishes simply becomes a way of life.

Many restaurants in Marbella have recently been awarded the Michelin ‘Bib Gourmand’ Award. This is designed to merit charming, high-quality restaurants that are excellent value for money – typically offering a three-course meal for less than 35€ per person.

Some of the best include KAVA, Areia and Boho Club.

One of the main pedestrian thoroughfares from the town to the seafront – Avenida Miguel Cano – is also lined with inexpensive eateries. And there are plenty of traditional tapas bars and chiringuitos to choose from, where you can try small plates for as little as 1-2€!

Contact our experts today

Here at Bromley Estates, our portfolio features an extensive range of properties for sale in Marbella, with something to suit all needs, preferences and budgets. Most of which are just a stone’s throw away from these Michelin Star restaurants and the rest of the city’s excellent dining scene.

Over the years, we’ve assisted countless clients to find their dream home in the Costa del Sol and settle into their new Spanish life – and we could do the same for you!

If you’d like further information – about the best restaurants in Marbella, what it’s like to live in Spain, how we can help to secure your ideal property or anything else – please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can either give us a call on +34 952 939 460 (+44 208 068 7606), or send an email to info@bromleyestatesmarbella.com and we’ll respond as soon as possible.