Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Espetos de Sardinas (Grilled Sardines)

Ingredients: Fresh sardines, coarse sea salt, olive oil, lemon (optional).
Preparation: Sardines are skewered on bamboo sticks and grilled over an open flame, traditionally on a boat-shaped barbecue filled with hot coals. The grilling process imparts a smoky flavor while keeping the fish tender and juicy.
Cultural Significance: Espetos are synonymous with Málaga’s beach culture and are a staple of the city’s chiringuitos (beachside restaurants). They are best enjoyed during the summer months.
Typical Cost: €6–€10 for a skewer of 5–6 sardines.
Where to Try:
- El Tintero (Playa del Dedo): A lively beachfront spot famous for its espetos and unique auction-style ordering system.
- Chiringuito El Cabra (Playa de la Malagueta): A classic chiringuito with a reputation for perfectly grilled sardines.

2. Ajoblanco (Cold Almond and Garlic Soup)

Ingredients: Almonds, garlic, bread, olive oil, vinegar, water, and salt. Often garnished with green grapes or melon.
Preparation: Almonds and garlic are blended with soaked bread, olive oil, and vinegar to create a creamy, chilled soup. It’s a refreshing dish, especially during Málaga’s hot summers.
Cultural Significance: Ajoblanco is a Moorish-influenced dish and a precursor to gazpacho. It reflects the region’s agricultural wealth, particularly almonds and olive oil.
Typical Cost: €5–€8 per bowl.
Where to Try:
- El Pimpi (Calle Granada): A historic bodega offering traditional Andalusian dishes in a charming setting.
- Restaurante Vino Mío (Plaza Jerónimo Cuervo): Known for its creative takes on local cuisine.

3. Fritura Malagueña (Fried Fish Platter)

Ingredients: A mix of small fish and seafood such as anchovies (boquerones), squid, cuttlefish, and prawns, lightly coated in flour and fried in olive oil.
Preparation: The seafood is cleaned, lightly dusted with flour, and fried until golden and crispy. It’s served with lemon wedges.
Cultural Significance: This dish showcases Málaga’s maritime heritage and the abundance of fresh seafood from the Mediterranean.
Typical Cost: €10–€20, depending on portion size and variety.
Where to Try:
- Casa Lola (Calle Granada): A popular spot for tapas and fried fish.
- Marisquería Godoy (Muelle Uno): A seafood restaurant with stunning views of the port.

4. Porra Antequerana (Thick Tomato and Bread Soup)

Ingredients: Tomatoes, bread, olive oil, garlic, vinegar, and salt. Topped with hard-boiled eggs, cured ham (jamón serrano), or tuna.
Preparation: Similar to gazpacho but thicker, this dish is made by blending ripe tomatoes with bread and olive oil until smooth. It’s served cold.
Cultural Significance: Originating from Antequera, a town near Málaga, this dish is a hearty and satisfying summer staple.
Typical Cost: €6–€10 per serving.
Where to Try:
- Mesón Mariano (Calle Granados): Known for its authentic Andalusian dishes.
- La Recova (Plaza de la Constitución): A rustic eatery offering traditional recipes.

5. Boquerones en Vinagre (Anchovies in Vinegar)

Ingredients: Fresh anchovies, white vinegar, garlic, parsley, olive oil, and salt.
Preparation: Anchovies are marinated in vinegar until they turn white, then dressed with olive oil, garlic, and parsley. They are served as a tapa.
Cultural Significance: Anchovies (boquerones) are a symbol of Málaga, and locals are even nicknamed "boquerones." This dish highlights the city’s love for simple, fresh flavors.
Typical Cost: €3–€6 per tapa.
Where to Try:
- Bar Mercado Atarazanas (Mercado Central de Atarazanas): A bustling market bar serving fresh tapas.
- La Tranca (Calle Carretería): A lively bar with a retro vibe and excellent tapas.

6. Churros con Chocolate

Ingredients: Flour, water, salt, and oil for the churros; thick hot chocolate for dipping.
Preparation: Churros are fried until golden and crispy, then served with a cup of rich, thick hot chocolate for dipping.
Cultural Significance: A popular breakfast or snack, churros are a social food often enjoyed with friends or family.
Typical Cost: €3–€5 for a portion with chocolate.
Where to Try:
- Casa Aranda (Calle Herrería del Rey): A Málaga institution for churros since 1932.
- Tejeringo’s Coffee (Various locations): A modern café chain specializing in churros.

7. Málaga Wine

Description: Málaga is famous for its sweet fortified wines made from Moscatel and Pedro Ximénez grapes. These wines are often paired with desserts or enjoyed as an aperitif.
Cultural Significance: Málaga wine has been produced for centuries and is a point of pride for the region.
Typical Cost: €2–€5 per glass.
Where to Try:
- Antigua Casa de Guardia (Alameda Principal): The oldest wine bar in Málaga, offering a wide selection of local wines.
- El Pimpi (Calle Granada): A must-visit for wine lovers.

Seasonal Specialties

Turrón: A nougat-like sweet made with almonds and honey, popular during Christmas.
Roscos de Semana Santa: Sweet anise-flavored donuts traditionally eaten during Holy Week.
Málaga Raisins: Sun-dried Muscatel grapes, often enjoyed as a snack or used in desserts.

Local Dining Customs

Meal Times: Lunch (comida) is the main meal of the day, typically served between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Dinner (cena) is lighter and eaten late, often after 9:00 PM.
Tapas Culture: Tapas are small portions of food meant for sharing. It’s common to visit multiple bars in one evening, sampling different dishes at each.
Siesta Hours: Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner, so plan accordingly.
Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated. Leaving 5–10% of the bill is customary for good service.

Conclusion

Málaga’s cuisine is a celebration of its coastal location, agricultural abundance, and rich history. From the smoky espetos on the beach to the refreshing ajoblanco in the city’s historic center, every dish tells a story. By exploring the local markets, chiringuitos, and traditional restaurants, visitors can immerse themselves in the flavors and culture of this vibrant Andalusian city. Bon appétit—or as the locals say, ¡Buen provecho!

Malaga

Traditional Cuisine