The Ultimate Tapas Trail in Marbella Old Town

Hidden inside a 16th century Andalusian courtyard, El Patio de Mariscal is one of the most romantic restaurants in Marbella Old Town. Lanterns hang from the ceiling, soft music plays in the background and climbing plants wrap around the ancient stone walls. It feels intimate yet lively, a place where groups of friends, families and couples all gather for great food.

The menu focuses on traditional Spanish dishes made with fresh local ingredients. Their garlic prawns arrive sizzling, the croquettes are creamy inside and crisp outside, and the slow cooked Iberian pork is packed with flavour. The atmosphere alone makes it a must for any tapas lover.

Best dishes
Gambas al ajillo, homemade croquettes, grilled peppers, Iberian pork.

Why you should go
A magical courtyard setting and classic Andalusian cuisine in its purest form.

This charming taberna feels like a traditional tavern transported straight from Córdoba. Inside you will find ceramic tiles, vintage posters, wooden barrels and locals chatting at the bar. The space is warm, welcoming and authentically Spanish.

Their signature dish is pisto, a slow cooked vegetable stew similar to ratatouille but richer, deeper and finished with a perfectly fried egg. They also serve one of the best salmorejos in Marbella, thick, silky and topped with chopped egg and jamón. Everything tastes homemade, as if someone’s grandmother is cooking in the back.

Best dishes
Pisto with egg, salmorejo, chorizo bites, grilled vegetables.

Why you should go
A true locals’ favourite that offers soulful Andalusian comfort food.

A Marbella institution since 1954, El Estrecho is narrow, busy and beloved by both locals and visitors. Its lively energy is part of the experience. The moment you step inside, you hear the clinking of glasses, the sound of fast paced conversation and the kitchen working at full speed.

The tapas here are simple but exceptional. Their tuna tartare is bright and fresh, the patatas bravas come with a spicy homemade sauce and their Russian salad is one of the best in town. It is a place where you stand at the bar, share plates and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere that defines classic Spanish tapas culture.

Best dishes
Tuna tartare, Russian salad, montadito with jamón, patatas bravas.

Why you should go
Genuine vintage tapas bar energy with fantastic food and friendly service.

The Farm is colourful, bohemian and all about fresh, organic food. It has a charming courtyard where flowers hang above the tables and the atmosphere feels young, creative and friendly. It is a great contrast to the more traditional spots and adds variety to the trail.

The menu focuses on sustainability and local ingredients. Expect creative dishes like organic hummus with warm pita, oxtail croquettes that melt in your mouth and salads packed with fresh produce from the region. It is the perfect place for visitors who enjoy a modern twist on Spanish flavours.

Best dishes
Oxtail croquettes, organic hummus, seasonal veggie dishes, local cheeses.

Why you should go
A fresh and modern take on tapas with eco friendly values.

Just steps away from Plaza de los Naranjos, Casa Curro is an unpretentious but incredibly charming tapas bar where hospitality is the main ingredient. The interior is rustic and warm, with wooden details and vintage decor. The owners treat every guest like a neighbour, which gives this place its special character.

The slow cooked beef cheek is unbelievably tender, the prawns in brandy sauce are rich and aromatic, and the fried aubergine with honey is a sweet and savoury favourite. Casa Curro is a place that feels real, welcoming and delicious without trying too hard.

Best dishes
Beef cheek stew, prawns in brandy sauce, aubergine with honey, grilled Iberian pork.

Why you should go
Authentic Marbella charm and some of the best slow cooked dishes in the Old Town.