Best Spots for a Tapas Crawl in Málaga - and More!

It's really hard to imagine a better evening than going to different restaurants spilling into the street, enjoying small Spanish dishes, and sipping on glasses of fine wine for as little as €2 a glass. Málaga is an amazing place to enjoy Spain's culinary peaks. While you could easily go to these establishments to get dinner, when in Spain do as the Spaniards do. The best way to enjoy Spanish tapas is to do a tapas crawl, order two or three plates at each establishment, get one glass of wine, and then saunter to the next place. I highly recommend this - especially if you only have a limited time in Málaga!

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Tapas Bars and Some Tips

Most Spaniards would start their crawl at 9. If you can make it that late, go for it! If not, most restaurants are up and running by 7 - some even earlier. The more authentic of an experience you want, the later you should stay out (or even start the night).

How much should you order at a place? I say one glass of wine and one or two tapas/pinxtos especially if you want to visit more than about three places. However, the more you like a place, the more you can order! I also like to use patatas bravas as a benchmark - if a place can make good potatoes they probably can make other delicious food!

Looking for other recommendations? Ask your hotel or a waiter at a churreria in the morning - there is no doubt that everyone has a preference for the best tapas in Málaga! Without a doubt, some of these restaurants should make the cut.

Casa Lola

@markfedoronko

A favorite with several locations in Málaga, Casa Lola is a fan favorite with both tourists and locals. When I went it definitely slanted towards touristic - but we were a little impatient to wait later than 7:15 to start our tapas crawl so we'll blame our weak American selves. Casa Lola has a phenomenal list of wines from around Spain at reasonable prices. The foods are also good - I particularly enjoy the cheese selection and the octopus

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Illari Vinos y Tapas

@markfedoronko

A warm and classy restaurant, Illari is a great place to stop during your tapas crawl! The wines are particularly good here and among the best we had while exploring the different restaurants in Málaga. While some of the pintxos are underwhelming, the toasts on the menu are sublime; my favorite is the leek and brie toast

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El Pimpi

@markfedoronko

A bit of a love-hate feel on El Pimpi - the restaurant is so big and touristic it's fair to call this place a factory and not necessarily a cozy place to eat. Waiters tend to be on the rude end. So should you go? I still say yes. If you go later in the evening (i.e. 9 PM or later) you'll be eating exclusively with Spaniards. If you go later you're also more likely to eat in "the Barrel Room", a famed room with wine barrels signed by various celebrities who have eaten at the restaurant. Ambiance is one thing El Pimpi does not lack, so I say stop at the end of your crawl and it's a good pick!

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Bar La Tranca

@markfedoronko

A very traditional tapas bar, La Tranca has a bit of that old world Spanish kitsch that is so fun in a tapas bar. Food options are good including the spinach and chickpea saute and the atmosphere screams classic tapas bar. A great stop on a crawl!

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Mesón Mariano

@markfedoronko

Méson Mariano also offers a more sit down area, but the bar area ranks as one of the best tapas settings in Málaga! The artichokes are a house specialty, but all of the traditional Spanish dishes are worth the sample

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Antigua Casa de Guardia

@markfedoronko

More of a wine bar than a full service tapas bar, Antigua Casa de Guardia offers a great selection of local sweet wines. If you get hungry, they offer a good set of seafood tapas. Be ready to stand at this institution, a worthwhile spot for your tapas crawl!

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Marisquería Casa Vicente

@markfedoronko

Casa Vicente is all about a 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.

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Uvedoble Taberna

@markfedoronko

Modern, creative, sleek: not words you would normally use to describe a tapas bar. Uvedoble is the exception. You'll find twists on traditional dishes like albondigas but with bulls tail instead of beef. This a great twist on the traditional tapas bar

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Not Tapas, but Worth a Mention!

El Gastronauta

@markfedoronko

El Gastronauta seems like a strange restaurant when you enter. It's menu reeks of touristic vibes, the interior is rather plain and has some weird movie decor. Don't let this fool you however. El Gastronauta has some of the best arrozes and paellas you can eat in Málaga. If that isn't enough, we always order patatas bravas as a benchmark to whether a place has good food; El Gastronauta has the best we ate in Málaga. This should absolutely be a stop for lunch when you are in town

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Blossom Restaurant

@markfedoronko

Blossom is an extremely small restaurant, but it sticks out incredibly nicely with so many flowers all over the front. Argentine chef Emi Schobert takes inspiration from his time in Patagonia to make such a delicious feast of a dinner. It clearly has worked - in only three years Blossom garnished a Bib Gourmand from the Michelin guide. If you're lucky, you'll see Chef Emi in the black flaming gnocchi with a blow torch and gently finishing dishes with edible flowers!

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Helados y Turrones Casa Mira. Dimas Mira E Hijos

@markfedoronko

You'd think that you walked into a deli when you have to take a number at this ice cream institution in Málaga. The best ice cream in the city, you really can't go wrong with any of their flavors. Just make sure you don't miss the cranky staff calling your number in Spanish!

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Breakfast in Málaga?

Want more culinary picks in Málaga? Check out my guide on best breakfast spots in the city!

Where to Eat in the Morning in Málaga | Mark Fedoronko

www.thatch.co

Need More Málaga Reas? How about a day trip to Ronda!

Some Highlights of Ronda, Spain | Mark Fedoronko

www.thatch.co

A Few Hotel Recs!

ICON Malabar

@markfedoronko

The rooms at the ICON are modern and well decorated. Despite being small, the hotel is a great rest spot from the energy of Málaga. The SoHo are where ICON is located is further from the city center but it is pretty local feeling

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Hotel Miramar

@markfedoronko

Hotel Miramar is going for bust. The hotel is palatial and has some of the most sumptuously decorated and luxurious spaces in the whole city.

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Room Mate Valeria Hotel

@markfedoronko

Stylish designer rooms in an old historic building is the theme for this hotel. The location is about as good as you can get for exploring the city center

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Coeo Apartments Fresca

@markfedoronko

Larger "apartment" style rooms are available at this establishment. All the apartments are very modern and well decorated - perfect for families, larger parties, or people who want a larger room in a crowded city!

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Reach out to Mark!

Mark provides all sorts of info to help your travel needs! This includes specific travel itineraries and planning services. Please reach out if you have any questions or would like customized travel services.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mark Fedoronko

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My name is Mark, and I've been travel planning since the age of 11. About Me I help redefine the way you experience the world. I don't just plan trips; we craft extraordinary adventures tailored to your unique desires. Mark's journey into the realm of travel planning began at an early age, driven by an insatiable curiosity to uncover the hidden gems and cultural nuances that make each destination truly exceptional. Expertise Beyond Borders Boasting an extensive portfolio of expertise, Mark is a seasoned navigator through the enchanting landscapes of Morocco, the captivating history of Jordan, the rich tapestry of Israel/Palestine, the cosmopolitan allure of Copenhagen, and beyond. Whether you're yearning for the vibrant markets of Marrakech, the ancient wonders of Petra, the historical significance of Jerusalem, or the contemporary charm of Copenhagen, I ensure that your journey is not just a trip but a transformative experience. Custom Itineraries, Crafted with Care I understand that no two travelers are the same. My commitment to personalization means that every itinerary is a bespoke masterpiece, meticulously crafted to reflect your preferences, interests, and dreams. From immersive cultural excursions to adrenaline-pumping adventures, we curate experiences that resonate with your individual travel style. Why Choose Mark's Travel Recs? Passion-Driven Expertise: Mark's lifelong passion ensures every itinerary has an authentic touch. Global Perspective: With knowledge spanning diverse destinations, I offer journeys beyond the ordinary. Attention to Detail: I leave no stone unturned, from accommodation to off-the-beaten-path excursions. Seamless Planning: Let me take the reins for a stress-free journey from conception to execution. Embark on a voyage of a lifetime with me—where the world is your oyster, and I help you discover its pearls

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