Location: Cruz del Humilladero, Malaga

Budget: €70-€120 / person (for the tasting menu without/with wine pairing)

Date of Visit: June 2023

When it comes to dining out in Malaga, ‘downtown’ restaurants are the obvious choice. But what if I told you that one of the best places to eat in town is just a short walk or taxi ride away from the hustle and bustle of Malaga’s touristic old town? Welcome to La Alvaroteca, located in the La Cruz del Humilladero district. We believe it’s the ultimate non-historic centre gem in Malaga.

Chef Álvaro Ávila, a local lad from this very district – located near the mainline train station, aims to bring you the finest local cuisine with his own imaginative twists. La Alvaroteca is all about the food. Chef Álvaro may not have had formal culinary training, but he has worked with big names in Spanish gastronomy, including Aznak. And more importantly, he grew up surrounded by food. His mother, hailing from Jaén in northern Andalusia, is an incredible cook—one he attributes a great deal of his passion and skill to. 

Mix the influence of his family roots in Jaén, and his upbringing in this very district of Malaga, and you have the recipe for Álvaro’s unique cooking style. Over the past decade, he has evolved from traditional tapas to create exquisite fine dining experiences.

La Alvaroteca takes pride in using fresh, seasonal ingredients that take center stage on their ever-changing menu. Álvaro keeps things interesting by changing the tasting menu on a weekly basis, often themed around a specific type of food or style of eating, such as tapas. This unique approach ensures that each visit to La Alvaroteca is a fresh experience, and you’ll likely never encounter the same dish twice.

You can opt for à la carte dining or go all-in with their tasting menu. Both options offer a delightful culinary adventure where the dishes are never quite what you expect – even if they sound familiar.

GYOZA DE CALLOS, SU GAZPACHUELO Y HABITAS DEL TORCAL

COCHINILLO CONFITADO, MANGO Y JENGIBRE

If you prefer to explore the à la carte menu, it offers a wide array of options. From lighter options such as tantalizing tacos, through various seafood, fish and meat options, to hearty stews, as well as Álvaro’s irresistible rice dishes (paellas!) that are a must-try.

Of course, no extraordinary meal is complete without a selection of excellent wines. La Alvaroteca boasts an impressive wine cellar with over 200 labels, showcasing wines from Malaga and beyond.

If you opt for the tasting menu at €67 per person, you can choose from pairing options for an additional cost. For €35, you’ll enjoy five carefully selected wines, or you can upgrade to the premium selection for €50. Alternatively, trust the knowledgeable, friendly and helpful staff to recommend the perfect wine to accompany each dish—they truly know their stuff.

As I mentioned, La Alvaroteca is away from the hustle and bustle of the historic centre. It’s accessible on foot from the old town in around 30 minutes, but I recommend taking a taxi at around 5€, which will get you there in air-conditioned fashion, in around 7 minutes!

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in Malaga that goes beyond the tourist hotspots in the city center, La Alvaroteca should be at the top of your list. With its imaginative cuisine, constantly evolving menu, and reasonable prices, it’s a hidden gem that’s sure to delight your taste buds. ¡Buen provecho!

La Alvaroteca Gallery

Location: Calle San Juan, Malaga

Budget: €40-€60 / person

Date of Visit: June 2023

Discover the Finest Culinary Delights at Bendito Restaurant in Malaga. Malaga-born Chef Mario Rosado Segado leads a passionate and talented team in the creation of internationally-inspired dishes, using the freshes, locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

Indulge in a gastronomic journey at Bendito, one of the best restaurants in Malaga, renowned for its exquisite cuisine and unforgettable dining experience. Read on to explore the mouthwatering delights awaiting you.

Introduction: In the heart of Malaga, a city brimming with culture, history, and culinary excellence, lies Bendito Restaurant—a hidden gem that beckons food enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable dining experience. Boasting a blend of traditional and innovative dishes, impeccable service, and a charming ambiance, Bendito has earned its well-deserved reputation as one of the best restaurants in Malaga. Join us on a virtual gastronomic journey as we delve into the delectable offerings and unique charm of Bendito.

A Gastronomic Extravaganza: Bendito Restaurant takes pride in its dedication to culinary excellence. Led by Malaga-born Chef Mario Rosado Segado and his talented and passionate team of chefs, the menu showcases a harmonious fusion of local Andalusian flavours and global influences. From fresh seafood delicacies to succulent meat dishes and vegetarian delights, Bendito’s diverse menu caters to every palate. Prepare to embark on a culinary extravaganza, where each dish is meticulously crafted using the finest locally-sourced ingredients, resulting in an explosion of flavours that will leave you craving for more.

Bendito Restaurant Gallery

Location: Calle Barroso, Soho, Malaga

Budget: €40-€50 pp

Link to Map: Antxoeta Art Restaurant

If you’re looking for classic Spanish cuisine, but are after something a bit more special than your typical Ensaladilla Rusa and Croquetas, you simply have to try La Antxoeta Art Restaurant. Nestled in trendy Soho, chef Pablo and his wife Cristina have created a concept that is like no other, in town.

Dining at La Antxoeta is an unforgettable experience, not just for the incredible food and wonderful wine selection, but for the exceptional service and warm welcome. Nothing is too much trouble. The experence is 5* from start to finish. From the moment they put the home made bread and selection of local olive oils on the table, you know you’re in for a treat. The menu is seasonal and every time I go, there is something new to try. One thing that is consistent though, is the use of fresh, local and seasonal ingredients, and the rock & roll vibes.

La Antxoeta Art Restaurant is situated just 10 minutes on foot from the heart of Malaga’s historic downtown area. This part of Malaga often gets overlooked, in favour of the prettier side of the Alameda principal, but as well as some amazing dining opportunities, Soho offers an edgier side to Malaga and is famous for its incredible street art. It’s a great place to stay, with access to the beaches, public transport and cultural spots like the cathedral and Malaga’s many museums, all within 10-15 minutes walking distance. We recommend Icon Malabar as a great place to stay, and it’s on the neighbouring street to La Antxoeta!

Antxoeta Art Restaurant