It’s lunch time on a sunny day in Marbella, what better way to enjoy the afternoon than to  head down to your favorite Chiringuito. For those that haven’t heard the word Chiringuito or are not sure what exactly it means; Chiringuito means a place to rest in the shade. Chiringuitos are establishments located on the beach and can typically be of a modest structure where you can drink and eat.

Along the 30km stretch of Marbella´s beaches there are over 70 chiringuitos. The ambiance of a Chiringuito can vary from one to another; some in keeping with a traditional rustic style or even as basic as plastic chairs and tables : where the focus is on quality food at realistic prices in a simple setting on the beach. At the other end of the spectrum there are fine establishments that have created a hip and happening atmosphere with trendy  interior design, live music or DJ sessions, where the music tempo increases as the day hots up then cools back down for sunset.

Being a prime beach location the principal cuisine revolves around tasty fish dishes, however a good selection of meat is often available too. The most authentic and most popular dishes at a Chiringuito are fried fish dishes, typical to southern Spain and originating in Cadiz. Such as Calamari Fritos and Boquerón’s al Limon. Another fish dish to look out for is  the Malagueña, which is a plate of mixed fish fried – definitely a dish to share. A good old classic is Gambas al Pil Pil (sizzling garlic prawns). Many types of shell fish such as Almejas o Coquinas (small clams in an oil and garlic sauce). There is the catch of the day from wild Sea bream or Sea Bass to seasonal fish caught locally such as Rosada which is similar to cod. You will often see the fish being cooked ´La Moraga´ which is cooked over coal in a small boat, check out the Sardines al Espeto. The best time to eat Sardines is from May to August. You will find traditional Andalusian dishes such as Paella, a rice dish cooked with shell fish and white fish or meat. The Spanish way is sharing several plates; such as Ensalada de Tomato or Roasted Pepper Salad. Tomatoes are a prominent food in Andalucia and a traditional summer soup is Gazpacho – served cold with garnish. If you have any room left ask about the delicious range of deserts preferably those that are Casero (homemade) such as Arroz con Leche – a cold rice pudding, chocolate mousse or almond cake. Of course if you prefer a plate of seasonal fruit or ice-cream these are regularly on the menu.

Everyone has their favourite Chiringuito and one of ours is on the east side of Marbella in Las Chapas; Restaurante Las Flores. A family friendly Chiringuito situated right on the golden sandy beach and next to protected  dunes. We are never disappointed with the food and value for money. Las Sardinales, Los Monteros Playa, is another firm favorite. The Belgium owned Restaurante Casanis Plage a little further along (Playa de Las Chapas is a popular Chiringuito with chic décor creating a fine ambiance with a live DJ sets. The food is splendid and the menu has some popular Belgium dishes too. More expensive than your average Chiringuito this is a prefect option for a splurge and special occasions. 

West Marbella a family favourite is Guayaba beach in San Pedro Alcantara, this venue is always buzzing, the tables are on the sand so leave your cares behind and get sand in your toes for chilled atmosphere and good food. Chiringuito Sol Beach in Guadalmina is a hidden gem, traditional and ideal if you fancy a quiet dinner with focus on the food. Central Marbella La Red is a popular place with the perfect  location if you are town, always a good atmosphere and quality food. We also enjoy El Chiringuito which is by the sports harbor, good for large groups with children, it ticks all the boxes value for money, good food and a relaxed atmosphere.

Chiringuitos are open for lunch and most for dinner, during the high season it is highly recommended to reserve your table in advance. Not all Chiringuitos are open throughout the year and they usually close for up to a month during the winter.