The 10 Best Tapas Bars in Málaga 2023

Heading to Màlaga and want to know where to eat? Local writer Laura Kemp gives a rundown on the best tapas bars in Málaga for 2023.

Malaga has a unique and authentic cuisine thanks to a variety of local products. These include almonds, grapes, olives, raisins, olive oil, ham, and fish. Plus, seasonal fruit and vegetables, baked goods, and home-made sweet wines. All can be found in the Best Tapas Bars in Málaga.

The Best Places to Eat In Málaga

No trip to Malaga is complete without a taste of tapas, which is at the centre of local gastronomy. Just take a bite and soak up the atmosphere of this buzzing city where the old meets the new.

Malaga boasts a maze of streets filled with a mix of traditional and modern bars and restaurants. So, let’s take a look at some of the best tapas bars in Málaga.

1. Taperia de Sybaris

Top of the list is Taperia de Sybaris, an authentic Spanish bar where you can try a whole range of amazing tapas that are typical to Málaga. As well as plenty of local wines and beer! The bar is adorned with fresh produce that is cooked and served throughout the day.

Perfectly located in the heart of the city, close to Cervantes Theatre, Taperia de Sybaris is a great place to soak up the Malaga atmosphere. The locals love it so you’ll have to keep your eyes open to grab a seat. The interior is a tight squeeze but there’s outside seating if you prefer a less intimate setting.

Try their cheeses, croquettes, pil-pil and roasted green peppers.

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.

Address: C. Álamos, 1

2. La Tranca

A unique tavern in the centre of Málaga, La Tranca is well-known with residents and visitors for its Spanish decor, food and ambience. A testament to the authentic vision of its Argentine owner.

The empanadas are legendary but try the stuffed avocado, prawn skewers, chickpeas with spinach, and breaded olives at this must-visit spot!

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.

Address: C. Carretería, 92

3. El Pimpi

El Pimpi occupies an 18th-century mansion built on an Roman road and is one of the most traditional wineries in Málaga. Here, you can enjoy the tradition and culture of Southern Spain. The winery is popular with locals and visitors. And it’s a hot spot for celebrities who come for the authentic dishes and fine wines. Standout dishes included shrimp croquettes, pringá montaditos, rosada and cured cheeses. One of Malaga’s mythical bars.

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.

Address: C. Granada, 62

4. Mesón Ibérico

Whether you sit at a table or on a bar stool like the locals, there’s plenty of dishes to try at Mesón Ibérico. After 25 years of business, this tapas bar has become a staple for authenticity in the centre of the city. The suckling lamb skewers, scrambled eels, Galician octopus and cod fritters are local favourites. And don´t forget to enjoy a glass of wine from their impressive cellar.

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.

Address: C. San Lorenzo, 27

5. La Farola de Orellana

Another classic stop that you can´t miss off the list is La Farola de Orellana. This traditional tavern sits in a charming and narrow street in the city centre where you’ll often find a queue outside the door . Try their meats, fried anchovies and grilled rosada.

Vegetarian options available.

Address: Calle Moreno Monroy 5

6. El Tapeo de Cervantes

You will find El Tapeo de Cervantes in the historic centre of the city, just a few steps from the Teatro Cervantes. It has a warm, intimate, and welcoming atmosphere. And is an excellent place to taste some of the best tapas in Málaga. The tapas here gives diners the opportunity to prepare their own tasting menu, with fish, shellfish, meat and vegetarian options on their extensive menu.

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.

Address: C. Cárcer, 8

7. La Taberna del Pintxo Larios

Pintxos are the tapas of north. But Basque-inspired pintxo bars are now present all over Spain. These small bites come on bread , often skewered with a toothpick, hence the name.

At La Taberna del Pintxo Larios, you will find hot and cold pintxos. You can make your selection at the bar or choose from the trays the staff bring around. You will find every kind of pintxo here and there’s a great selection for veggies.

Address: C. Alarcon Lujan, 12

8. Picasso Bar Tapas

Picasso Bar is one of the top-rated bars in Málaga. It sits in the the busy Plaza de la Merced and serves over 30 classic tapas dishes.

There’s a buzzing vibe here, which captures the Malaga lifestyle. So grab a table and sample the specialities including typical fried fish. And veggies don’t despair, there’s plenty for you too.

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.

Address: Pl. de la Merced, 20

9. Casa Lola

Casa Lola is popular with Malagueños and visitors alike. It’s a great place to enjoy a juicy Spanish red or delicious vermouth with your tapas.

Don’t let the queues put you off. There’s a reason tables are in hot demand. Highlights include the sizzling gambas pil-pil and roasted red peppers. Get in. Enjoy the buzz. And eat well. You won’t regret it.

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.

Address: C. Granada, 46

10. Las Merchanas Taberna Cofrade

Last but not least, is Las Merchanas Taberna Cofrade, which sits behind the Thyssen Museum. This is a small bar with quirky décor and a typical Andalucian atmosphere.

We recommend the patatas bravas and tripe served with chickpeas and black pudding. But there’s plenty more to enjoy. So, take a seat at the bar and graze on their tapas while enjoying a sweet Málaga wine!

Address: Calle De Mosquera, 5, 29008 Málaga

Main image: La tranca