Food & Drinks

Life on the Costa del Sol is very social, and eating and drinking with family and friends forms an integral part of daily life. Andalucian cuisine is definitely iconic, based around its so-called Mediterranean diet and variety of flavours. In fact, it is more than a diet; it is a healthy lifestyle choice.

On the Costa del Sol you will find that the most typical dishes in Malaga province invite you to eat healthy. The cuisine in Andalucía focuses on fresh, local ingredients – locally grown fruits and vegetables are top quality, and of course the seafood basket that is the Mediterranean. You can enjoy famous ensalada malagueña (a simple salad combined from potatoes, oranges, olives and cod) or white garlic soup (cold soup made of almonds, garlic, bread and flavoured with grapes).

The gastronomy on the Costa del Sol owes much too Moorish influences and each towns or village on the Costa del Sol gives a personal touch to those typical dishes. The coastal regions on the Costa del Sol are renowned for their amazing seafood and fish dishes. Be sure to try out the wide selection of fried fish (pescaito frito) at any beach restaurants in Malaga or Marbella, or the legendary Espetos – sardines cooked on a skewer over an open fire.
Benalmadena, Marbella, Malaga are also home to several Michelin Stars Restaurants and the Costa del Sol is recognised as the true gastronomic capital of Andalucia. Nobu just opened its doors at the Puente Romano, with many more Michelin stars to come.

The Village of Benahavis, located within a short drive inland from San Pedro de Alcantara, is synonymous with fine dining on the Costa del Sol. It has the highest concentration of high class restaurants and tapas bars in the region and attracts thousands of visitors who come simply to taste the cuisine.

Andalucia has a long history of winemaking and produces many interesting products you are sure to enjoy. Wineries are located throughout the whole region and many offer tours with guides that explain the processes involved in wine making and can answer your questions about how wine production differs in Andalucia from other parts of Spain and the rest of the world. If wines interest you, you must visit the oldest bar in Malaga centre – Casa de Guardia on Alameda Principal. Unchanged for decades and wine served from the barrels.

The Costa del Sol is full of variety, flavours, smells and sensations. Those expats who seek items from their home countries will be surprised to find that on the Costa del Sol almost everything is available.