Going out for tapas is an essential part of the culture of Spain, especially in the south, and families or groups of friends will often go out for tapas, rather than for a sit-down meal. For those that don't know tapas (literally a lid or cover, originally to keep the dust and flies out of your drink), are the snacks or small portions (larger portions are half or full raciones) that are served in most bars. It's a very social activity and the food is often shared. This also means you get to try a lot of different things without getting too full. Typical tapas include cured meats like jamón Iberico, chorizo or manchego cheese to start, followed by fried fish, seafood and everything pork.
Málaga has a vibrant and lively tapas scene with lots of great places to eat (not to mention some good sit-down restaurants too). Here are some recommendations for both.
Restaurante José Carlos Garcia
Michelin star restaurant in the new Muelle Uno harbour development.
Address: Plaza de la Capilla, Puerto de Málaga
Phone: +34 952 003 588
Óleo Sushi Bar
Address: Alemanes (inside Contemporary Arts Museum)
Phone: +34 952 21 90 62
Andrés Maricuchi
Fabulous traditional seafood restaurant with great sea views in picturesque Pedregalejo. Good wine list and attentive service too.
Address: Paseo Maritimo (El Pedregal), 14
Phone: +34 952 290 412
Manzanilla
Great little gourmet tapas bar just off Calle Larios, the latest venture of superchef Dani García. Traditional Spanish dishes and local versions of New York cuisine. Don't leave without trying the bulltail burger.
Address: Fresca, 12
Phone: +34 952 226 851
Los Gatos
Fun and friendly atmosphere and excellent all-day tapas make this a great place to eat and socialise in the heart of the city.
Address: Plaza Ucibay, 9
Phone: +34 952 222 340
La Cosmopolita
Casual and traditional-with-a-twist (a bit like Málaga itself), La Cosmopolita is open for breakfast as well as lunchtime and evening tapas.
Address: José Denis Belgrano, 3
Phone: +34 952 215 827
El Tapeo de Cervantes
With both traditional and innovative tapas and a big selection of wines by the glass this is a popular place with the locals. Come early or be prepared to wait. A second, larger location called Meson de Cervantes has recently opened at calle Alamos 11.
Address: Cárcer, 8
Phone: +34 952 609 458
Souvi Tapería
Avant-garde tapas and chic décor, tucked away in a little square off Calle Cister. Definitely a hidden gem.
Address: Afligidos, 3
Phone: +34 952 229 052
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