With its cobblestone alleys, blooming bougainvillaea, and timeless Andalusian charm, Marbella’s Old Town is more than just a pretty postcard – it’s a full-blown culinary journey. While most people think of Marbella as a luxury playground, those who venture into its ancient heart are rewarded with some of southern Spain’s most authentic, flavorful, and absolutely delightful tapas experiences.
Whether you’re a curious traveller with a nose for local flavour or a returning foodie on the hunt for your new favourite bite, this 2025 guide to the best tapas in Marbella Old Town is your golden ticket. From time-honoured tabernas to trendy new hotspots, here’s where to go, what to order, and why you’ll fall in love with each place.
These are the 5 Best Tapas in Marbella Old Town in 2025
1. La Bodega de la Fonda
Tucked away in one of the quieter corners of the old quarter, La Bodega de la Fonda feels like stepping into your abuela’s kitchen if your abuela happened to be an award-winning Andalusian chef. With dark wooden barrels lining the walls and soft flamenco music playing in the background, this cosy bodega radiates rustic charm.
Their chorizo al vino tinto, braised in robust red wine, is an absolute must. Pair it with the croquetas de jamón ibérico, gloriously crispy on the outside and meltingly creamy inside. And don’t miss the berenjenas con miel de caña – crispy eggplant drizzled with dark cane syrup – a sweet-and-savoury marvel that locals swear by. Local tip: Snag a table on the small front terrace in the early evening to catch the golden hour light washing over the whitewashed walls of the old town.
2. Marzo 23
New to the tapas scene and already making waves in 2025, Marzo 23 brings a modern twist to Marbella’s traditional plates. This stylish, minimalist eatery is just off Plaza de los Naranjos, where tapas meet creativity. The menu is short but curated with absolute precision.
Their taco de atún rojo, featuring buttery red tuna and a delicate citrus soy glaze, tastes like a sunset on your tongue. The alcachofas confitadas (confit artichokes) with truffle oil and smoked salt are a revelation for vegetarians. Every dish is plated with artistic flair, perfect for the Instagrammers, but backed by serious culinary chops.
Drink pairing: Ask for their local vermouth cocktail. It’s refreshing, slightly bitter, and wonderfully complex.
3. Manolo, Café y Tapas
Don’t be fooled by the understated name – Manolo, Café y Tapas is a neighbourhood favourite that’s been delighting locals for years. This is your go-to spot for casual afternoon tapas, cold beer, and friendly service. It’s the kind of place where the bartender remembers your name and your order by the second visit.
Their ensaladilla rusa is creamy, salty, and topped with the perfect amount of crunchy pickles. The pinchos morunos (spiced pork skewers) are perfectly grilled with a smoky paprika rub that lingers long after the last bite. For something fun and snacky, try the papas bravas – crispy potatoes served with a garlicky aioli and spicy tomato sauce that hits just the right balance of heat and richness.
Best time to go: Late afternoon on a weekday, when the locals pour in after work, and the vibe is laid-back and lively.
4. Taberna Casa Curro Marbella
A true institution in Marbella Old Town, Taberna Casa Curro isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. With its flamenco posters, colourful azulejos (ceramic tiles), and tables that seem to overflow with good cheer, this taberna captures the duende of Andalusia like few others.
Start with their jamón ibérico de bellota, sliced so thin it nearly melts on your tongue. Their revuelto de setas (scrambled eggs with wild mushrooms) is earthy, aromatic, and comforting. And of course, don’t miss their gambas al ajillo – plump garlic shrimp sizzling in olive oil, perfect for mopping up with crusty bread.
Pro tip: Order a glass of fino or oloroso sherry to accompany your meal. It brings out the depth of flavor in every dish and elevates the whole experience.
5. La Taberna del Pintxo Marbella
If you’re unfamiliar with pintxos, they’re essentially tapas’ Basque cousins – small bites typically served on slices of bread and skewered with toothpicks. At La Taberna del Pintxo Marbella, you get the best of both worlds: the charm of Andalusia and the innovation of northern Spain.
Here, servers wander the dining room with trays of warm, freshly prepared pintxos, letting you choose what catches your eye. You might grab a mini grilled steak with chimichurri, goat cheese with caramelised onion, or spicy chorizo with manchego. Your toothpicks are tallied at the end of your meal to determine your bill.
This fun, interactive dining style is perfect for groups or those who love variety. The vibe is buzzy, energetic, and contagiously joyful.
What locals love: The changing seasonal menu and constant flow of new pintxos – every visit feels a little different.
Bonus Tips for Tapas-Hopping in Marbella Old Town
- Pace yourself. Tapas are small, but it’s shockingly easy to overdo it – especially when everything looks this tempting. Try a tapa or two at each spot, then move on to the next.
- Don’t skip the drinks. Many tapas pair beautifully with local wines, vermouths, or craft beers. Ask for recommendations – they’re often spot-on.
- Go late. Dinner in Spain doesn’t start until 8:30 or 9 PM. The later you go, the more atmospheric (and authentic) your experience will be.
- Look for the crowd. You’re in the right spot if a place is packed with locals.
Final Thoughts
Marbella Old Town in 2025 is a treasure trove of tapas – each bar and taberna telling its own delicious story. Whether you’re drawn to modern flair, rustic tradition, or anything, this picturesque maze of alleys and courtyards offers something for every palate.
So wander, taste, sip, and savour. Let the scent of garlic and olive oil guide you. Follow the sounds of laughter and clinking glasses. In Marbella’s Old Town, every tapa is a bite of joy – and every night can be your new favourite food adventure. Here’s our list of new restaurants in Marbella Old Town you should try.
