Estepona may be petite, but it certainly packs a punch in certain areas. One of its standout features is its culinary scene, with the town earning a reputation as a food lover's haven in recent years. While Michelin stars may be absent, you can still indulge in delectable dishes at affordable prices and in charming atmospheres. To ensure you don't miss out on the most mouthwatering meals, we've compiled a list of Estepona's top restaurants. Make sure to include them on your dining bucket list.
¡Que aproveche!
Best restaurant in Estepona for traditional dining – La Alcaria de Ramos
This restaurant, run by the Ramos family for two generations, is a classic choice near El Paraiso Golf Course. If you love Spanish cuisine, you can't go wrong here. Indulge in traditional dishes like serrano ham and melon, then savor the zarzuela fish and seafood stew, a Mediterranean specialty. For a twist, try the homemade paté with Cumberland sauce and Tataki tuna. Enjoy dining al fresco in the garden during summer or cozy up by the fire indoors when it's cooler. And make sure to try the famous roast duck with apple - it's a must!
Best restaurant in Estepona for cucina italiana – La Tarantella
One of the historic mansions in the old town is home to La Tarantella, offering exquisite Italian cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, from antipasti to pizzas, salads, pasta, and a selection of fish and meat dishes. La Tarantella brings the finest Italian flavors to Estepona, transporting your tastebuds across the Mediterranean. Enjoy your meal in the elegant dining room or outside in the patio with a beautiful vertical garden as your backdrop. And be sure to try the freshest pasta this side of Rome!
Best restaurant in Estepona for wine – Casa del Rey
There are over 120 types available, with at least 50 by the glass. Feel free to ask the waiter for recommendations, as this restaurant in Estepona specializes in more unique labels. You can enjoy a variety of meat and fish dishes, including sharing plates, mains, and smaller pinchos (tapas on a slice of bread). Whether you choose to dine outside in the pedestrian street, inside the 200-year-old historic mansion, or in the indoor patio, be sure to book ahead for weekday dinners or weekend lunches as it tends to get busy. And don't forget to try the pincho of the day, which is always perfectly paired with one of the wines.
Best restaurant in Estepona for sunsets – Como pez en el agua
This spot is a must-visit for those exploring the Senda Litoral coastal path in Estepona. Situated right on the path, you can enjoy delicious traditional beach chiringuito dishes like croquettes, Spanish tortilla, fried fish, and grilled octopus, which some say are the best in town. While the seating may be limited, dining with the sand and sea at your feet more than makes up for it. The service is top-notch and the staff is incredibly welcoming. You'll truly feel like a fish in the water at this restaurant, right at home. And make sure to try the cachopo, a mouthwatering breaded steak dish served with hand-cut chips.
Best restaurant in Estepona for breakfast – Etcetera Café Bar
You can enjoy this delightful menu all day long, featuring a variety of fresh salads, organic acai bowls, inventive tapas, and delicious homemade cakes. Vegans will find plenty of options to choose from as well. Coffee lovers should definitely check out whether Etcetera lives up to the hype of serving the finest coffee in town, as its loyal fans suggest.
Nestled in a charming green square, it’s the perfect spot for a cool breakfast during the summer months, or you can opt for the modern indoor seating. The friendly service adds an extra touch to your experience.
Best restaurant in Estepona for beach views – La Bulla Gastrobar
If you want to dine at a restaurant in Estepona that offers sea views and is open all day, La Bulla Gastrobar is the perfect choice. You can start your day with a delicious homemade cake and coffee at the beach. For lunch, try some cold cuts and cheese or gourmet tapas, like the suckling lamb roll with oyster-lime sauce. If you stay for dinner, make sure to sample the house special – Almadraba tuna prepared in any way you like. Whether you choose to sit outside on the sunny terrace or inside in the leafy boho interior, you'll have a great view of the sands and sea. And don't forget to try the cocktails served in funky glasses and jars!
Best restaurant in Estepona for veggies – Wild Café & Restaurant
It's always been a challenge to find good restaurants that cater to non-meat and fish eaters in Spain, but Wild has changed the game on the Costa del Sol. The rustic and homely atmosphere, along with friendly service, sets the perfect tone for a menu that caters to all tastes, including carnivores. However, the real stars are the veggie/vegan creations, beautifully presented and bursting with color and flavor. From breakfast to lunch, there's something for everyone, and even diehard meat eaters will be tempted by the veggie and vegan options. And don't forget to try the avocado croquettes topped with chili sauce and pansy flowers - they're a must!
Best restaurant in Estepona for a prime steak – Restaurante Sur
No one can match the expertise of the Argentinians when it comes to a delicious steak. They excel in every aspect, from sourcing the finest beef to storing it properly and cooking it to perfection. It's no surprise that Sur has been delighting customers with the best cuts of meat on the Costa del Sol since 1994.
When you step into the restaurant, you'll feel like you're in the heart of the Argentinian countryside. The rustic decor, wooden accents, and country-inspired details create an authentic gaucho atmosphere. And if steak isn't your thing, don't worry – the menu offers a variety of options, from salads and starters to unique dishes like sole ceviche, lamb tagine, and cous-cous for vegetarians.
Make sure to save room for dessert, as Sur offers a wide selection that goes beyond the usual choices. How about trying the pumpkin with mascarpone or indulging in a slice of Brazilian cassata? There's something for everyone to enjoy!
Best restaurant in Estepona for fine dining on fish – El Pescador
For a more elegant dining experience featuring fresh fish and seafood, this restaurant on the seafront promenade is the perfect choice. The outdoor tables offer stunning sea views, while the white interior creates a clean and sophisticated atmosphere, allowing the food to take center stage.
Fish and seafood are the highlights of the menu, featuring a variety of shellfish and local specialties such as concha fina and coquinas. The menu also offers a selection of fish prepared in different ways to cater to all preferences. And for paella lovers, there are five different types to choose from, including the signature arroz a la banda.
Be sure to try the whole grilled squid served with squid-ink black spaghetti for a truly unforgettable dish.
Best restaurant in Estepona for fresh fish and seafood – La Escollera
This welcoming eatery has been dishing up seafood for over 80 years, so they definitely know their stuff. Located in Estepona Port, most of the menu consists of the freshest catches of the day, offering a variety of local dishes from pescaíto (small fried fish) to grilled squid and gambas pil-pil. Their specialties include crab, octopus, and unique shellfish like barnacles.
La Escollera is a popular spot in Estepona, especially on weekends when locals come in droves - no reservations allowed. To secure a table, arrive early or be prepared for a wait - it's worth it!
Make sure to check out the impressive display case filled with the finest fish and seafood in Malaga.
