(+34) 683 503 536
As summer eagerly approaches, the chiringuitos (beach bars) along Andalucía's stunning coastline are gearing up to serve their pièce de résistance: the mouthwatering "espeto de sardinas" (sardine skewer), a quintessential delicacy of this time of year.
When it comes to gastronomy and summer in Spain, several dishes vie for the spotlight: tortilla de patatas (potato omelette), gazpacho, pipirrana, remojón... However, when our gaze shifts to the coastal regions, the arrival of summer ushers in a culinary star that steals the show: the revered espeto de sardinas.
This delectable dish reigns supreme along the coasts of Malaga, Granada, and Almeria provinces, so much so that it has transcended its regional origins and can now be savored in practically every corner of Andalucía and Spain. The preparation involves skewering fresh sardines onto a rod, placing them next to a wood fire at a distance of 20 or 30 centimeters. As the sardines grill, the crackling embers impart a distinct flavor that sets them apart.
With such a plethora of options to choose from in Andalucía, we embark on a delightful tour of the Andalusian coastline, exploring some of the best-rated chiringuitos renowned for their exceptional espetos, as recommended by platforms like Tripadvisor.
1. Agua Amarga, Almeria: La Tarahis
Located in the picturesque municipality of Agua Amarga, within the Cabo de Gata-Níjar area of Almeria, lies La Tarahis, a beach bar that catches the eye with its enviable location, ample parking, and delectable cuisine served right on the sandy shores.
2. Salobreña, Granada: Casa Emilio
In the province of Granada, where numerous establishments vie for attention, Casa Emilio shines brightly in the municipality of Salobreña. Praised for its impeccable service, delectable fare, and, of course, spectacular espetos, this chiringuito is a true gem.
3. Mojácar, Almeria: Cala Marina
Returning to Almeria, specifically in Mojácar, we encounter Cala Marina, another beach bar where patrons can indulge in anchovies, sardines, and an array of seafood delights. Renowned as one of the top-rated places in the area for savoring this coastal culinary art.
4. Malaga: El Caleño
Within the vibrant city of Malaga, a multitude of options awaits those seeking espetos and other classic chiringuito dishes. Among the noteworthy establishments is El Caleño, nestled on the scenic Paseo Marítimo El Pedregal, offering an ideal setting to relish espetos and much more.
5. Marbella, Malaga: Los Tres Pepes
Marbella's gastronomic landscape is so vast that choosing a single spot to enjoy espetos, fish, and seafood is a delightful conundrum. Yet, among the highly-rated establishments on Tripadvisor, Los Tres Pepes steals the limelight, hailed by some patrons as the "perfect complement to a beach day."
6. Marbella, Malaga: Marbal-la
Staying within the dazzling realm of Marbella, we encounter Marbal-la, nestled on the vibrant Avenida del Duque de Ahumada. This beach bar offers seafood and fish at competitive prices, but for those longing for their iconic espetos, reserving in advance is advised.
7. Almuñécar
, Granada: La Dorada de Plata
Nestled on San Cristóbal beach in the municipality of Almuñécar, La Dorada de Plata beckons as a highly recommended option along the Granada coast. This establishment boasts an extensive menu of seafood dishes, including the traditional sardine skewers.
8. Cadiz: Bebo Los Vientos
While espetos enjoy greater popularity in Malaga, Almeria, and Granada, other regions of Andalucía, such as Cadiz, also excel in preparing sardines. Bebo Los Vientos, a standout chiringuito, garners praise for its spacious terrace and exquisite culinary offerings.
9. Roquetas de Mar, Almeria: La Orilla
La Orilla, a charming chiringuito in Roquetas de Mar, emerges as another exceptional option in Andalucía to relish delicious espetos by the beach. It consistently ranks among the finest restaurants in the area and specializes in mouthwatering rice dishes as well.
10. Marbella, Malaga: La Milla Marbella
In Marbella, La Milla Marbella presents another enticing opportunity to savor top-notch cuisine. Dubbed by some patrons as a "luxury restaurant on the sand," this beach bar serves up classic dishes, with sardines on a skewer standing out as a perennial favorite.
As the summer heat envelops Andalucía, embrace the tantalizing flavors of espeto de sardinas and let these beachside chiringuitos elevate your culinary journey along the enchanting coastline. Bon appétit!