My Favourite Restaurants in Estepona, San Pedro, Marbella and Fuengirola: A Personal Guide to the Costa del Sol

One of the things I love most about life on the Costa del Sol — apart from the sunshine, the sea and the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle — is its incredible food culture. Every town here has its own identity, and you can truly taste it through its gastronomy.

Today, I’d like to share with you some of my personal favourite restaurants in Estepona, San Pedro, Marbella and Fuengirola. Whether you’re thinking of relocating, investing in a property, or simply visiting the area, these are the places I always recommend to clients, friends, and family.

Estepona: Traditional Flavours by the Sea

Estepona is a place I hold close to my heart. It’s managed to keep its fishing village soul while offering fantastic modern restaurants. Here are my top picks:

La Rada

This is one of those classic beachfront restaurants where I often go for espetos (grilled sardines) and a seafood rice stew. The views of the Mediterranean and the laid-back atmosphere make it one of my go-to spots for a relaxed lunch or dinner.

El Pescador

If you appreciate simple, high-quality seafood, you’ll love this place. The fish here is always fresh from the local market. I recommend the sea bass baked in salt and the grilled baby calamari — they’re absolutely delicious.

Casa Doña Jerónima

When I’m in the mood for something a little different, I head to Casa Doña Jerónima. It’s a creative take on traditional Andalusian cuisine, with beautiful presentation and a charming setting. The tuna tartare with avocado is a must-try.

San Pedro de Alcántara: A Local Gem with a Cosmopolitan Feel

San Pedro has become increasingly popular in recent years, and I can understand why. Its restaurant scene has really blossomed.

Tanino

This is one of my favourite places for a fun evening with friends. The restaurant has a lovely bohemian feel and a Mediterranean-international menu. I always order the oxtail croquettes and finish the evening with one of their artisan cocktails.

Marabierta

Perfect for a special seafood lunch by the sea. Their arroz del señorito (shellfish rice without shells) is wonderful, and the grilled baby squid never disappoints. It’s one of those places I keep going back to.

The Hogan Stand

I know it’s unusual to recommend an Irish pub here — but trust me on this one. The food is excellent, with perfectly done fish and chips and hearty Angus beef burgers. It’s also my favourite spot to catch a football match on the big screen.

Marbella: Glamour, Fine Dining, and World-Class Experiences

Marbella is known for its glamour and international flair, and its restaurants reflect that beautifully. These are the ones I personally love and recommend.

Nobu Marbella

This place is special. I go here when I want to celebrate something or enjoy a night of sophisticated dining. The black cod miso and the Wagyu tacos are outstanding, and the atmosphere is always vibrant.

Lobito de Mar

If you’re a seafood lover like me, you’ll fall in love with Lobito de Mar. Created by Michelin-starred chef Dani García, it offers everything from espetos to modern seafood rice dishes. I highly recommend the red tuna with manteca colorá.

La Sala

Whenever I have guests visiting, this is where I take them for dinner and live music. It’s lively, elegant, and the menu has something for everyone. The garlic prawns and the cheesecake are my personal favourites.

Fuengirola: Coastal Tradition and Warm Hospitality

Fuengirola holds a special charm with its old fishing village soul and authentic local atmosphere. These restaurants are my top recommendations:

Los Marinos José

An absolute temple for seafood lovers. I usually start with oysters and order grilled wild sea bass. The quality here is consistently outstanding — a must if you’re in Fuengirola.

Restaurante Palangreros

This family-run restaurant is a local treasure. The fried aubergines with honey, oxtail stew, and seafood paella are all superb. It’s a place where I always feel at home.

The Sandpiper

Perfect for a casual lunch by the sea. They serve a mix of international dishes — from fresh pasta to grilled meats — and it’s a great spot for a relaxed meal with a sea view.

Final Thoughts: Good Food is a Way of Life on the Costa del Sol

For me, life on the Costa del Sol isn’t just about beautiful beaches and sunshine — it’s about enjoying every moment, especially around the table. The region’s gastronomy is one of its biggest treasures, blending tradition with modern creativity.

Whether you’re moving here, investing, or visiting, the culinary scene will quickly become one of your favourite parts of life here, just as it has for me.