Looking for the best restaurants in Malaga? You’ve come to the right place! Malaga is a true foodie paradise, with everything from cozy tapas bars to stylish rooftop restaurants. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply enjoy Mediterranean cuisine full of flavor and color, you’ll find plenty of delicious options in this sunny Andalusian city. On this page, I’m sharing my favorite restaurants in Malaga; all of them have good vegetarian options, and each one offers its own unique atmosphere.
Balausta
My absolute favorite restaurant in Malaga is Balausta. It’s an elegant restaurant located inside the beautiful Palacio Solecio hotel, right in the historic center. The interior is absolutely stunning; think high ceilings, soft lighting, and a refined, modern design. The picture at the top of this page is also taken there.The service is excellent, and the food is even better. You’ll find creative Mediterranean dishes, fresh local produce, and surprising flavor combinations. They’re open for lunch and dinner, and you can also grab a cocktail in between or afterwards at their cocktailbar.
La Terraza de La Alcazaba
If you’re looking for a rooftop with a view, La Terraza de La Alcazaba is the place to be. This bar and restaurant sits above the Hotel Alcazaba Premium and offers panoramic views over the Alcazaba fortress, Malaga’s historic center, and even the rooftop of Antonio Banderas’ apartment! It’s the perfect spot for sunset cocktails, and they also serve tasty tapas. Come for the views and stay for the atmosphere. It’s my favorite rooftop bar in Malaga.
Casa Lola
If you ask anyone who’s been to Malaga where to eat tapas, they’ll probably mention Casa Lola. This lively restaurant is almost always busy, and for good reason! Located on a charming square in the city center, Casa Lola offers a long list of tapas, from Spanish classics to modern twists. It’s a great place to share several small dishes and soak up the bustling local atmosphere.
Casa Mira
For dessert, you can’t miss Casa Mira, the oldest ice cream shop in Malaga. It was founded in 1890 and still serves traditional, handmade ice cream. The original shop is located on Calle Marqués de Larios, and it’s a local landmark. They sell the Malaga ice cream flavor (with sweet wine and raisins), which is a must if you’re visiting Malaga. I loved their rich chocolate mousse. But they’re mostly known for their turrón flavor (nougat).
Antigua Casa de Guardia
A true Malaga institution, Antigua Casa de Guardia is one of the oldest taverns in the city. It’s been open since 1840 and feels like stepping back in time. Locals and tourists alike come here for a glass of sweet Malaga wine, poured straight from wooden barrels behind the bar. It’s a must-visit for a taste of local tradition and a fun place to experience old-school Andalusian charm.
Casa Aranda
For the best churros con chocolate in Malaga, head to Casa Aranda. This legendary café has been serving these crispy churros since 1932. It’s always buzzing with people, locals, families, and travelers alike, all dipping their churros into thick, warm chocolate. A perfect stop for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
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La Recova
La Recova is one of the most unique breakfast or brunch spots in Malaga. From the outside, it looks like a second-hand shop, but once you step in, you’ll find a quirky, cozy café with mismatched furniture and vintage decor (that’s also for sale). They serve toast with various toppings, presented in a charming and creative way. It’s an authentic local gem, full of character and flavor.
La Plaza Malaga
One of the newest restaurants in town, La Plaza Malaga opened in the summer of 2025 and quickly became a hit. It might look a bit touristy at first, but the menu is surprisingly good, especially for vegetarians and vegans. You’ll find dishes like vegan albondigas (Spanish meatballs) and tasty vegetarian pizzas. The location is unbeatable, right opposite the Roman Theatre and close to the Alcazaba fortress.
La Santa María
La Santa María is the stylish gastrobar of Hotel Barceló Malaga. The interior alone makes it worth a visit: it’s modern, bright, and full of pink accents, perfect for Instagram photos! You can even reach the restaurant by sliding down a slide from the upper floor, which makes it a fun and unexpected experience. While the vegetarian dishes aren’t the highlight here, the overall vibe, cocktails, and presentation make it a great stop for a drink or light meal. Another plus is that it’s right next to the train station, so it’s a great stop if you’ve just arrived or before you’re leaving.
Café Berlin
If you’re looking for a cozy café in Malaga, Café Berlin is a great choice. It’s a laid-back spot that’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon coffee. They serve good coffee, homemade cakes, and fresh sandwiches. It’s the kind of place where you can sit for hours with your laptop or a book and just enjoy the local vibe.
Salao
Salao is one of my favorite spots by the harbor. It’s a relaxed place where you can sip on a cocktail and enjoy some nachos or small bites while watching the super yachts. The atmosphere is casual and stylish at the same time, making it a perfect stop during a seaside stroll at Muelle Uno.
Taberna Don Juan
Taberna Don Juan might be a bit on the touristic side, but they have a nice sidewalk terrace in the old town. The menu is full of classic Spanish tapas, and they have a few lovely vegetarian options too. I recommend the Burrata and the fried aubergine with honey; a typical Andalusian dish that’s both sweet and savory. It’s a nice casual spot for lunch or early dinner while exploring Malaga’s historic center.
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