Located on Spain’s sun-drenched Costa del Sol, the seaside town of Torremolinos is not just about beaches and strolls—it’s a vibrant culinary playground offering everything from authentic Andalusian seafood to trendy international fusion. Locals and visitors alike agree that the neighbourhoods of La Carihuela and El Bajondillo are among the best places to eat, thanks to their plentiful beachfront bars, “chiringuitos”, and restaurants with sea-view terraces.
Recommended Torremolinos RestaurantsWhy dine in Torremolinos?
The gastronomic scene in Torremolinos reflects its heritage as a fishing village transforming into a cosmopolitan resort. Traditional Mediterranean cuisine is at the heart: expect fresh catch of the day, simple grilled fish skewers, the famed “pescaíto frito” (small fried fish) and rice dishes satisfyingly done. Meanwhile, more modern eateries and tapas bars cater to all budgets and tastes—from family friendly spots to stylish rooftop venues. Despite its touristic destination status, the town retains genuine family-run restaurants alongside the trendier spots.
Top dining areas to explore
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La Carihuela: This charming old fishing quarter turned beach promenade is the go-to for seafood lovers. Long established restaurants line the sand and offer grilled sardines, paella and fresh shellfish with Mediterranean views.
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El Bajondillo: A lively stretch of beach with accessible dining for families and groups. Here you’ll find a mix of chiringuitos and casual restaurants serving reliably solid meals rather than high-end fine dining.
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Centro / Calle San Miguel: If you’re after tapas, bar-hopping or informal dinners, the pedestrianised centre with its many small bars is a lively place to linger into the evening.
Sample restaurants worth booking
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Casa Juan: A long-standing favourite since 1949, located in La Carihuela. Known for authentic paella and fresh grilled fish.
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Don Canapé: A top-rated regional cuisine option in Torremolinos worth reserving.
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La Favorita: Centrally located Italian-style eatery with excellent reviews, perfect for an alternate meal out.
Practical dining tips
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Timing: Lunch typically runs from about 14:00 to 16:00; dinner rarely starts before 20:30 or 21:00.
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Budgeting: A good meal in a standard restaurant may cost from around €15-25 per person; fine dining or seafood speciality may push upwards of €40+.
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Beachfront vs inland: Beachfront restaurants offer incredible views but often come at a premium; wandering just a street or two inland can reveal equally good food at lower cost.
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Reservations: Especially during peak tourist season or for renowned seafood places, booking ahead is recommended. The locals note particularly for dinner.
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Give it a go: Ask for the “menú del día” for a good value lunch option, and consider sharing seafood platters to try more without overspending.
In conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed lunch by the sea, a nostalgic dinner of Andalucían classics, or a lively evening with cocktails and tapas, Torremolinos has the range and the local authenticity to deliver. From family-run seafood spots in La Carihuela to vibrant rooftop bistros in the centre, your best bet is to explore a couple of neighbourhoods and savour the best of Mediterranean cuisine in this sunny resort town.