Espetos, a type of skewered sardines cooked over hot coals, are a must have of the Costa del Sol’s culinary scene. Many believe that espetos are consumed during the summer season along with some delicious cold drinks. However, truth is, espetos can be enjoyed during any season throughout the year at a chiringuito. When you crave it, just go for it and do not make yourself wait until summer. It is indeed true that the best season to fish sardines is between may and october, which is basically summer months. However, they can found all year along and you can still enjoy their flavour even if they are less fatty.
At costa del sol, it does not matter what season it is, you can find espetos at many beachside restaurants in the province. The following five chiringuitos are some great recommendations on where to savor espetos in Malaga.
Avante Claro chiringuito
Right next to Cala flores residency, at the center of La Cala del Moral, you can find Avante Claro. Not only they serve juicy espetos, you also get to enjoy them while admiring a gorgeous sea view. Their menu includes a delicious tuna toasts with guacamole that you can enjoy with crunchy bread. Avante Claro is the perfect relaxation spot that serve mouth watering espetos. It is super popular in Costa del Sol, so if after this guide you feel like visiting “which we hope for”, i recommend you reserve a seat.
El Espigón de La Cala
Again a famous spot located in La Cala del Moral along the Paseo Infante. El Espigón de La Cala is a chiringuito that serves excellent espetos. Additionally, visitors rave about their fried seafood options. But that’s not where it ends though, their customer service is also worthy of mention. A must visit when you are nearby Malaga.
Marina Playa
Just like the name depicts, you can find this chiringuito on La Marina beach in Rincón de la Victoria. Annually, SUR, a news website, organise an espeto route and Marina Playa has been a finalist before. Except for mondays, Marina Playa is open from 11 am till midnight so you can pass by during day and night. Their menu has various mediterranean and seafood dishes along with some refreshing drink options. If you are an espeto enthusiast, make sure to give this spot a chance.
Las Acacias chiringuito
Along El Pedregal promenade area in Pedregalejo neighbourhood, you will see Las Acacias chiringuito. It’s a traditional chiringuito that serves a range of fried and grilled fish from their menu. It’s a popular place among locals and tourists both due to its busy summer nights and the ambiance. Additionally, their pricing gives them a competitive advantage which results into attracting more customers.
Royal Beach Pirata
If you visit the beautiful city of Mijas, there is a high chance that you walk by the royal beach. While walking at this beach, just when you see the royal beach residential development, you can find this chiringuito. Royal Beach Pirata was 2023’s finalist in the espeto competition so that says it all. Being outside of malaga city is not an excuse to not enjoy this Costa del Sol speciality.