Let’s be honest: tapas bars are a dime a dozen in Malaga, but not all of them are created equal. Malaga’s status as a summer hotspot means that it’s just as easy to stumble into a tourist trap as it is to find an authentic local gem. That’s where we come in.
Our guide to the best tapas bars in Malaga will help you devour the city by frequenting the latter (and avoiding the former). From traditional tapas bars to those putting their own modern spin on the classics, you have to try these eight tapas bars in Malaga’s old town.
Mesón Mariano: Best traditional tapas bar in Malaga
Let’s start things off with a classic. At Mesón Mariano, you can sit down and enjoy a more sophisticated meal in the restaurant, or hang out at the bar and order up a few rounds of tapas—the choice is entirely yours.
This place is traditional (in the best possible way) and family-run, serving up tasty homemade dishes made with the absolute finest and freshest market products. Don’t leave without trying the artichokes—they’re the specialty of the house.
La Recova: Quirkiest tapas bar in Malaga
We’ve already established that La Recova is one of our favorite spots for breakfast in Malaga, but believe it or not, this quirky and charming cafe also provides a wonderful variety of local tapas starting at midday.
With seafood favorites such as pulpo, a delicious charcuterie selection, and caracoles (snails) for those willing to step out of their culinary comfort zone, this cozy locale is the perfect place to stop for a bite. What makes it especially interesting, though, is the setting—it’s also a shop selling artisan and antique homewares and decorations.
Uvedoble: Best modern tapas bar in Malaga
Ajoblanco—but with a touch of salty sardines. Albóndigas—but with decadent bull’s tail.
These are just a few of the contemporary takes on traditional Malaga tapas that await you at Uvedoble, one of the best tapas bars in Malaga for those looking for something fresh and new. Everything comes in various sizes, so when you order, keep in mind how many people will be sharing the dish (it’s the local way!) and go from there.
Insider’s Tip: Going out for tapas is the complete social experience? Check out our guide to find out how ordering tapas works.
El Tapeo de Cervantes: Best variety of tapas
Don’t let the size of El Tapeo de Cervantes fool you—this tiny tapas bar packs a big punch when it comes to variety.
With traditional, modern and fusion offerings all on the menu, you’re spoiled for choice here, and you really can’t go wrong with anything. To make the experience extra special and authentic, pair your choices with a wine from their excellent list (we’d suggest one from the nearby D.O. Sierras de Malaga region).
Insider’s Tip: This is one of the hottest tapas joints in Malaga, so calling ahead is recommended to guarantee your spot.
Marisquería Casa Vicente: Best seafood tapas in Malaga
If you hadn’t already figured as such based on the city’s coastal location, you’ll soon realize that fish is a staple of the local diet here in Malaga. When we’re craving those fresh seafood flavors, no place beats Marisquería Casa Vicente (Calle Comisario, 2).
Located just a few blocks away from the legendary Atarazanas Market, they’re famous for their no-frills atmosphere and fresh seafood tapas served in generous portions. The stars of the show, without a doubt, are their gambas (shrimp)—you’ll have to peel them yourself, but just throw the shells and tails in the bucket on your table.
Antigua Casa de Guardia: Best place to start a tapas crawl in Malaga
Before you head out to enjoy a crawl among these best tapas bars in Malaga, you’ll want to start things off with a local aperitif. Our pick: Antigua Casa de Guardia, Malaga’s oldest wine bar, which serves the region’s typical sweet wine straight from the barrel (one of the 24 barrels that line the wall behind the bar, to be exact).
To accompany your wine, they serve a small but respectable selection of seafood tapas that always hit the spot.
Las Merchanas: Best inexpensive tapas in Malaga
This humble tapas bar is a favorite among locals and tourists for its unique decor, delicious tapas, and affordable prices. Adorned with regalia from Malaga’s famed Holy Week, the interior of this tapas bar is unlike any other. It’s a must-visit for a taste of the city’s most important week of the year.
But Las Merchanas is popular all year long because of its fantastic menu. Their patatas bravas, fried potatoes in a spicy sauce, and the homemade ham and cheese croquetas are some of the bites that keep us coming back.
Las Merchanas knows how to do the classics well and for a great price. You’ll feel comfortable telling the waiter, “Uno más!”
La Barra de Doña Inés: Best tapas bar in Malaga for a special occasion
La Barra de Doña Inés prides themselves for using the best produce to reinvent Spain’s classic dishes. We can tell you that the results are mouth-watering. Their oxtail brioche is a must-try with tender meat on soft, fluffy bread.
Whether you choose to sit outdoors on the terrace or inside the cozy dining area, this sophisticated tapas bar is perfect for a special occasion.
Update notice: This blog post was updated on February 16, 2023.
