Marbella’s cuisine reflects the flavors of Andalusia, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The city is known for its seafood, including dishes like espeto (grilled sardines) and boquerones (anchovies), both typically enjoyed at one of the many beachside “chiringuito” restaurants. Gazpacho, a cold tomato-based soup, and ajoblanco, a chilled almond and garlic soup, are refreshing local favorites during the hot summer months.
For those seeking a taste of traditional Spanish cuisine, the Old Town offers a variety of tapas bars where visitors can sample small plates of jamón ibérico, croquetas, and grilled prawns. Marbella is also home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Dani García’s establishments, where modern interpretations of Andalusian dishes are served in a high-end setting.
Wine lovers will appreciate the local Andalusian wines, particularly those from nearby regions like Ronda. Marbella also boasts a vibrant café culture, where visitors can relax and enjoy churros with hot chocolate or a glass of tinto de verano (a red wine and soda mix) while soaking up the atmosphere.