The food scene in Marbella is solid, but it's not usually the main tourist attraction. However, there are some charming eateries in the resort town that you should check out. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Marbella is around $72 (€66) per person, with previous travelers spending from $32 to $138. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Marbella are as follows:
- Breakfast: $7 to $22
- Lunch: $11 to $29
- Dinner: $22 to $50
- Coffee: $6
- Fast Food or Street Food: $11
Marbella offers exquisite cuisine and culinary options. Because of its location on the Mediterranean, seafood is one of the best and most common fares, but there are also other flavorful options. One dish to watch for in the area is the Sopa Campera. Its main ingredients are tomatoes, onions, garlic, peppers, green asparagus, stale bread, and sometimes seafood can also be added, depending on the chef as well as the taste of each person. Another dish to look for is the Malaga style salad, which is a light salad of potatoes and olive oil, that also has tomatoes, peppers, onions and either tuna or cod (the original is with cod).
A few restaurants to try in Marbella include Paco Jimanez, serving an eclectic Mediterranean menu, Restaurante Messina, which serves a bit more exotic dishes such as crab curry ravioli, and Marbella Patio, which serves more traditional Spanish cuisine.
When you're dining out with kids, seek out restaurants that offer a kids' menu. This can help you save quite a bit since these meals are usually more affordable. Keep in mind that some restaurants might not showcase their kids' options, so be sure to ask your server before placing your order.
Some hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, while others add it as an extra charge. The quality and price of breakfast can vary greatly depending on the hotel. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you need to set aside additional funds. The hotel's buffet may be worth it, or you might consider visiting a local bakery or cafe for a more budget-friendly option.
Make a picnic for a budget-friendly way to enjoy the scenery. Visit a nearby grocery store or market, stock up on fresh goodies, and find a beautiful park or scenic spot to have your meal.
Opt for a water bottle rather than spending on drinks all the time. It's also a more sustainable choice.
If you're going to take a tour, make sure you understand which meals are included. You could end up paying for some food yourself, which might affect your budget.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Marbella, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Gourmet Cooking Class & Culture in the rural Montes de Malaga. For $170 details
- Fuengirola Boat Activity with Champagne Dinner and Sunset for $162 details
- The Mediterranean Diet & Lifestyle Cooking Class. For $178 details