If there is something that attracts the attention of visitors to Spain and in particular to those who come to Andalusia, it is the possibility of enjoying tapas. If you feel like enjoying the best tapas bars in Estepona, you are in the right place. We have selected for you up to ten bars and restaurants that are true tapas artists.
Take note and get ready to enjoy the varied and exquisite offerings that each of these restaurants has in store for you. Immerse yourself in a unique gastronomic experience, where authentic flavors and fresh ingredients merge to give you unforgettable moments. Come with us for tapas in Estepona.
This is the beginning of our tapas route in Estepona:
This is our top 10 places to go for tapas in Estepona.
1- BAR HOPPER
Hopper Tapas Lounge Bar invites you to enjoy its cozy atmosphere and delicious gastronomic proposal. Opening hours are from Monday to Tuesday and Thursday to Friday, from 19:00 to 00:00. During this time, you will be able to delight yourself with the exquisite tapas and dishes offered. It is important to note that the kitchen closes at 22:30. But don’t worry, after that hour, the atmosphere transforms into a bar with nostalgic music from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s that will make you enjoy until closing time.
Important: Reservations and groups are not accepted. Maximum 4 people and no tables are joined together, which guarantees a comfortable and pleasant space for all customers. You already know, if you are looking for a cozy place with delicious tapas and a nostalgic atmosphere, Hopper Tapas Lounge Bar is your best choice.
2- EL CAMPANARIO
El Campanario Restaurant is located in a natural environment and is part of Campanario Golf & Country House, a new generation social club based on an active and healthy lifestyle. Although part of a private club, the restaurant is open to the public and offers an exceptional dining experience that you can complete with 9 holes and a spa.
At El Campanario, you will find international cuisine, with options for vegans, vegetarians and celiacs. The menu is not particularly extensive but the quality of its products is exceptional. If you feel like having a drink in a quiet and relaxing place away from the noise and rush, look no further.
3- LA BULLA GASTROBAR
Strategically located in the center of Estepona, La Bulla Gastrobar stands as an authentic gastronomic paradise with spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. Its high-end culinary proposal is based on the quality of the products, offering a unique experience for the most demanding palates.
In this sophisticated establishment, you can delight in a wide variety of tapas that awaken your senses and blend perfectly with a selection of exquisite wines. La Bulla Gastrobar is proud to offer grilled red almadraba tuna, an authentic culinary jewel that you can’t miss. It also has an extensive menu of cocktails, gin & tonics and natural juices made with fresh fruits of the day.
4- LA CASA DEL REY
Located in the heart of the historic center, next to the Plaza de las Flores, is La Casa del Rey, one of the most charming places in Estepona. Every detail has been carefully selected to offer you a truly unique dining experience. This gastrobar gives you the opportunity to enjoy a spectacular signature cuisine, with tables for tastings and a cozy courtyard.
At La Casa del Rey you will find a wide variety of culinary options, from the most creative pinchos to the most traditional dishes, all accompanied by an extensive selection of wines. Its large wine cellar makes it a must visit. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you in choosing the best wines to complement your dishes. You can’t miss it!
5- TABERNA MAR DE ALBORÁN
Welcome to the paradise of authentic Spanish tapas. Since its opening in May 2016, Mar de Alboran offers a wide selection of tapas representing the different culinary traditions and products of Spain. Here you will find fresh vegetables, meats, fish and seafood cooked to perfection, following the family tradition and the specificities of each region, to delight your senses and make your palate explode with happiness.
Mar de Alborán offers you a relaxed and authentic experience that you will never forget. Everything is delicious. The bravas, the shrimp, the chorizo, the Padrón peppers… Every calorie is worth it. The diet can wait until tomorrow!
6- SABOR ANDALUZ
This bar, located in the beautiful and pedestrianized Calle Caridad, with its blue flowerpots overflowing with flowers, has been a favorite of many Esteponeros for 20 years. You can order portions, half portions, tapas and montaditos. If you are looking for a good ham, Sabor Andaluz has a very good selection. If you don’t mind paying a little more, the jamón ibérico de bellota reserva is incredible.
The familiar and cozy atmosphere of this bar makes Sabor Andaluz a place not to be missed. Dishes range from 15€ to 25€ and are quite generous. If you are looking for an authentic Andalusian dining experience at a very competitive price, you will not be disappointed.
7- EL TOQUE
There is always a good atmosphere at El Toque, with a charming and friendly staff. Some of the dishes have an oriental touch and are delicious. It would be something like a fusion of modern cuisine with Asian influences. The veal steak is highly recommended, but if you want to try the jewel in the crown, don’t leave without ordering the mini hamburgers.
For less than 3 euros you can choose from a good variety of tapas. If you can, go early and hungry. It is not uncommon to see queues of people waiting for a table to become free. The terrace is very pleasant, although if you prefer there is also room inside. On the downside, it is not particularly close to the center. Nothing that can’t be fixed with a short walk.
8- EL TEJAR
A typical Basque restaurant in the heart of the Costa del Sol. Bilbao-style white tuna, Iberian croqueton, traditional pintxos with a great variety of ingredients, shrimp, octopus, cod in pil-pil sauce… Whether you sit inside or outside, at El Tejar you will experience an authentic blend of northern gastronomy and Andalusian style. First class products cooked with love. And what’s more, the prices are very reasonable.
El Tejar restaurant is off the beaten tourist track and is always full of Esteponeros. If you are a foreigner and do not speak Spanish, here you will be served perfectly in English, so you will avoid ordering without knowing what surprise the tapas will have in store for you.
9- LA GALERÍA
La Galería is one of the reference places for tapas in the old town of Estepona. Winner in several editions of the Ruta de la Tapa de Estepona (2016, 2018 and 2019), it is characterized by an exquisite attention in a premises of almost one hundred square meters very well cared for. If you are interested, it is also available for birthdays, baptisms, company lunches, Christmas dinners or family celebrations.
It is what some call gastro-bar, which is a way of saying that you eat very well and drink better. Our recommendation: the Iberian pork cheeks confit. And if you like sweets, ask for some dessert, which are not bad at all.
10- OLIVA IBEROTECA
The pil-pil prawns at the Oliva Iberoteca restaurant are legendary. Although the number of options on the menu is large, you won’t go wrong no matter what you choose. If you are more of a meat lover: Iberian products are incredible and of course you can always have Jabugo ham. They also have a magnificent selection of wines. Ask your sommelier for the best pairing.
Its location, in the heart of Caridad Street, in the center of the historic center of Estepona and a stone’s throw from the Paseo Marítimo, makes Oliva Iberoteca a restaurant that costs nothing to go to. Once you start eating, leaving is more complicated.
This is our selection of the 10 best tapas bars and restaurants in Estepona. We have tried to highlight some in the historic center, others that are further away from the tourist guides and even some that you will find in a housing development. The truth is that choosing is always complicated and there is no one who is absolutely right when it comes to taste.
We invite you to comment on your favorite places and give us your opinion. For the record, we have not received any benefit for including any of these places in this list. It is simply our point of view. Enjoy!
