Best Tapas In Malaga

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

When it comes to indulging in the tantalizing world of tapas, few places can match the culinary scene of Malaga. Nestled along Spain's sun-kissed Costa del Sol, this charming coastal city boasts a plethora of delightful tapas bars that are sure to leave your taste buds begging for more.

Having spent countless afternoons and evenings exploring the lively streets of Malaga, I have had the pleasure of discovering some true gems that showcase the very best this gastronomic tradition has to offer. So sit back, relax, and let me take you on a mouthwatering journey as we uncover the best tapas in Malaga.

1. El Tapeo de Cervantes

If you are looking for a traditional tapas bar in Malaga, El Tapeo De Cervantes is a great option to consider. Located next to the Teatro de Cervantes, this tapas bar is one of the best tapas bars in Malaga, and for good reason.

One of the first things you notice when you walk into El Tapeo De Cervantes is the cozy and intimate atmosphere. With space for just 28 people, the bar is small but welcoming. If you plan on visiting, it's a good idea to reserve beforehand, arrive early, or be prepared to wait.

Once you are seated, the wait is most definitely worth it. The food is excellent, and the variety of tapas on offer is impressive. From traditional Spanish dishes like tortilla and croquetas to more modern creations like salmon tartare and tuna tataki, there is something for everyone.

In addition to the food, El Tapeo De Cervantes also has an extensive wine list, with many local and regional wines to choose from.

Contact:

Address: C. Cárcer, 8, 29012 Málaga, Spain

Phone: +34 952 60 94 58

2. Bar La Tranca

La Tranca is a tapas bar located in the heart of Malaga. It is a popular spot among locals and tourists and the bar offers a wide variety of traditional Spanish tapas, along with local wine and other beverages.

One of the standout dishes at La Tranca is the patatas bravas, which are crispy potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce. Another must-try dish is the montaditos, which are small sandwiches filled with a variety of toppings, including cheese and cured meats.

In addition to the delicious food, La Tranca has a great atmosphere. The staff are friendly and welcoming, and the decor is traditional and cozy. It's a great place to stop for breakfast or lunch during your trip to Malaga, or to spend an evening enjoying regional tapas and drinks with friends.

Contact:

Address: C. Carretería, 92, 29008 Málaga, Spain

Phone: +34 615 02 96 69

3. Atarazanas Market Bar

I recently visited the Atarazanas Market Bar in Malaga Centro and was thoroughly impressed with the quality of their tapas. This tapas joint is located in the heart of the Atarazanas Mercado, which means that all of their ingredients are sourced fresh from the market itself.

The bar has a great selection of Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine, with a particular focus on fish and seafood. Their fresh fish is a must-try, and I highly recommend the prawn skewers and octopus tapas. The paella is also a standout dish, with a perfect balance of flavors and a generous portions size.

The prices at the Atarazanas Bar are reasonable, especially considering the high quality of the food. The bar has a great atmosphere, with friendly staff and a bustling market setting. It's the perfect place to stop for a quick bite to eat while exploring the market.

Some other dishes that I tried and loved were the artichokes, vermouth, and croquettes. They also have a great selection of fried fish, which pairs perfectly with a cold beer.

Contact:

Address: C. Atarazanas, 29005 Málaga, Spain

Phone: +34 657 44 54 87

4. Las Merchanas

Las Merchanas Bar, located on Calle Mosquera, offers a great selection of local Andalusian cuisine at an affordable price.

The atmosphere inside is cozy and welcoming, with friendly staff who are happy to recommend dishes and provide excellent service. The bar is also conveniently located near Plaza de la Merced, making it a great spot to stop for a quick bite while exploring the city.

One of the standout dishes at Las Merchanas is their tortilla de camarones, a traditional Spanish dish made with shrimp and chickpea flour. It was crispy and flavorful, and definitely worth trying. They also offer a variety of other tapas, including croquetas, fried calamari, and patatas bravas.

In addition to the delicious Malaga food, Las Merchanas also has a great selection of local Spanish wines and beers to pair with your meal.

Contact:

Address: C. Mosquera, 5, 29008 Málaga, Spain

5. Cortijo de Pepe

A few months back I had the pleasure of visiting the Cortijo De Pepe Bar, and I must say that it is one of the best Malaga tapas bars I have ever been to. The bar is situated in the city center of Malaga, just a stone's throw away from the Málaga Cathedral.

The bar is a mix of a restaurant and a tapas bar, serving a wide variety of Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine. The menu is extensive, with plenty of options for vegetarians and meat lovers. The authentic tapas are the highlight of the menu, and they are all freshly prepared and bursting with flavor. The portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable.

One of the standout dishes at Cortijo De Pepe is the meat-filled pepper tapa. It is a must-try for meat lovers, and the flavors are simply amazing. The steak tapa is also a great option, and it is cooked to perfection. The bar also serves a great selection of drinks, including local wines and beers.

The service at Cortijo De Pepe is exceptional. The waiters are friendly, and always willing to help. They are happy to recommend dishes and drinks, and they are always attentive to their customers' needs.

Contact:

Address: Pl. de la Merced, 2, 29012 Málaga, Spain

Phone: +34 952 22 40 71

6. La Farola de Orellana

La Farola De Orellana is a tapas bar located in the centre of Malaga. This Spanish tapas restaurant offers a wide range of traditional Andalusian dishes, including delicious seafood dishes such as fried anchovies and shrimp, succulent ox cheeks, pork, including the best pimento del padron which you will find in all of Spain . The bar also has an international twist, with dishes like seared foie gras that is to die for.

The atmosphere in La Farola De Orellana is cozy and welcoming, with a rustic decor that adds to the charm of the place. The bar is nestled in a quiet corner of central Malaga, making it an ideal location for a relaxing meal with friends or family.

The service at La Farola De Orellana is excellent, with friendly and attentive bar staff who are always happy to recommend dishes or drinks. The bar also has an extensive wine list, with a great selection of Spanish and international wines that pair perfectly with the Spanish food.

Contact:

Address: C. Moreno Monroy, 5, 29015 Málaga, Spain

Phone: +34 951 13 19 30

7. El Pimpi

Tapas Bar El Pimpi, founded in 1971, is one of the most famous in the city and is located near the entrance of Jardines Calle Alcazabilla, close to the Malaga Cathedral.

The bar offers a wide variety of traditional Malaga tapas and local wines, which can be enjoyed in a charming and rustic atmosphere. One of the highlights of the bar is its outdoor terrace, which is decorated with colorful tiles and plants, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance.

The menu at El Pimpi offers a range of dishes, including classic tapas such as patatas bravas, croquetas, boquerones, Porra Antequerana and tortilla Española, as well as more unique options such as grilled octopus and Iberian pork cheeks. The portions are generous and reasonably priced, making it an excellent option for those looking to try a variety of dishes without breaking the bank.

In addition to the delicious food, El Pimpi is also known for its impressive wine cellar, which has some of the oldest and most prestigious wines in the region. The wine bar has a unique tradition where celebrities and famous personalities sign their barrels, making it a popular attraction for tourists and locals.

Contact:

Address: C. Granada, 62, 29015 Málaga, Spain

Phone: +34 952 22 54 03

8. Uvedoble Taberna

I ones bumped into Uvedoble Taberna in Malaga, and I must say I was thoroughly impressed. This contemporary tapas bar offers a unique take on traditional Spanish cuisine, with a focus on quality ingredients and expertly crafted gastronomy dishes.

The atmosphere at Uvedoble is warm and inviting, with a cozy interior that is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner for two.

One standout dish that I tried was the shrimp ravioli, which was bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked. The mini burger was also a hit, with a juicy patty and a flavorful sauce that complemented the other ingredients perfectly.

In addition to the delicious food, Uvedoble also offers an impressive selection of cocktails. I highly recommend trying one of their signature drinks, such as the Uvedoble Sour or the Gin Fizz.

Contact:

Address: C/ Alcazabilla, 1, 29015 Málaga, Spain

Phone: +34 951 24 84 78

9. Picasso Bar Tapas

As the name suggests, the Picasso bar pays homage to the famous Spanish artist, Pablo Picasso, with artwork and decor inspired by his style.

The tapas menu at the Picasso Tapas Bar is extensive and offers a variety of traditional Spanish dishes with a modern twist. Some of my personal favorites were the grilled octopus with paprika and olive oil and the Iberian pork sliders with caramelized onions and aioli.

The bar itself has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with dim lighting and comfortable seating. The staff were friendly and know the menu, offering recommendations and answering any questions we had.

Whether you're an art enthusiast or not, the combination of great food and artistic ambiance make this tapas bar one of the best places to visit.

Contact:

Address: Pl. de la Merced, 20, 29012 Málaga, Spain

Phone: +34 951 92 53 66

10. Vino Mio

Vino Mio is a Spanish tapas bar that specializes in Mediterranean and European cuisine. The restaurant is located in Plaza de Jeronimo Cuervo, right next to the Teatro Cervantes.

The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with a rustic decor that creates a warm and inviting environment. The staff is friendly, and they are happy to recommend dishes and pairings from their extensive wine list.

The menu at Vino Mio is extensive, with a wide variety of typical tapas dishes to choose from. The dishes are expertly prepared and beautifully presented, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the crispy pork belly with apple sauce, the grilled octopus with paprika and olive oil, and the Iberian pork fillet with truffle sauce.

Overall, I would highly recommend the Vino Mio Tapas Bar to anyone looking for a high-quality tapas experience in Malaga.

Contact:

Address: Pl. de Jerónimo Cuervo, 2, 29012 Málaga, Spain

Phone: +34 952 60 90 93