MARBELLA: ANDALUSIA’S GASTRONOMIC CROWN JEWEL
MARBELLA’S MICHELIN MAGIC
With five Michelin stars shining brightly across its culinary landscape, Marbella has established itself as the undisputed gastronomic capital of Andalusia. Few cities of its size can lay claim to such a prestigious accolade, where over 600 restaurants deliver world-class dining experiences. From innovative techniques to a deep respect for Andalusian culinary traditions, Marbella’s rise to the top of the Michelin Guide is a testament to its commitment to excellence. It now stands ahead of other Andalusian cities such as Córdoba, Jaén, and El Puerto de Santa María, each boasting fewer stars.
Marbella’s ascent began in 2019, when the Puente Romano resort’s flagship restaurant, helmed by its eponymous chef, earned a coveted third Michelin star—the only one awarded that year in Spain and Portugal. As Ángeles Muñoz, Marbella’s mayor, rightly notes, “Gastronomy is a fundamental pillar of the city and cements it as a world-class tourist destination.”
This culinary distinction is underpinned by a variety of restaurants that fuse tradition with innovation, Mediterranean roots with modern flair. Below, we explore some of the finest Michelin-starred establishments Marbella has to offer:
Back – 1
Back – 1 Michelin Star (2024)
Location: Pablo Casals, 8
Back is the latest star in Marbella’s haute cuisine constellation. A modern bistro-style restaurant, Back is where chef David Olivas blends creativity with precision. His seasonal menu strikes a balance between innovation and heritage, featuring standout dishes such as almadraba tuna, fried pigeon breast in bread crust, and oxtail consommé with noisette butter and caviar. The experience is further elevated by a global wine selection, expertly curated by sommelier Fabián Villar, with a particular focus on Andalusian varieties.
Nintai
Nintai – 1 Michelin Star (2021)
Location: Ramón Gómez de la Serna, 18
Marcos Granda’s Nintai brings an authentic slice of Japan to Marbella. Granda, a celebrated sommelier, opened the intimate venue after a transformative journey to Japan. With just 12 seats at its sushi bar, Nintai offers a serene and sophisticated dining experience, where premium seasonal ingredients and delicate flavor combinations come to life. Expect dishes like chawanmushi, squid noodles, and black cod in miso, paired with sake or champagne for a journey into the heart of umami.
Skina
Skina – 2 Michelin Stars (2008, 2019)
Location: Cánovas del Castillo, 9
Skina is a culinary institution in Marbella, and the smallest restaurant in the world to have earned a Michelin star, a title it first received in 2008. Nestled in a charming Andalusian townhouse, Skina is a place where chef Marcos Granda transforms traditional southern Spanish ingredients into refined, modern dishes. The second star, awarded in 2019, solidified its position at the pinnacle of fine dining. Signature dishes include red tuna tartar with pistachio “ajoverde,” Malaga shrimp in Thai broth, and smoked eel with black garlic gazpachuelo.
Messina
Messina – 1 Michelin Star (2015)
Location: Av. Severo Ochoa, 12
Chef Mauricio Giovanini’s Messina combines elegance with bold culinary imagination. Drawing inspiration from his Argentine roots and global gastronomy, Giovanini crafts a tasting menu that fuses European and Latin American influences. The result? Dishes that surprise and delight, such as shrimp with blue cheese mousse, squid gazpachuelo with roe, and grilled picanha. This refined dining experience is complemented by the expertise of sommelier Pía Ninci, ensuring an impeccable pairing with every course.
El Lago
El Lago – A Culinary Landmark
Location: Marco Polo Avenue
Though El Lago no longer holds a Michelin star, it remains a cornerstone of Marbella’s gastronomic scene. Set against the tranquil backdrop of a golf course and overlooking a serene lake, El Lago offers a menu rooted in Andalusian tradition. Standout dishes include sea bass ceviche, avocado cannelloni stuffed with tuna, and roast Malaga goat. Its seasonal, local ingredients and unrivalled location ensure that El Lago continues to attract discerning diners from near and far.
From intimate sushi bars to elegant Mediterranean bistros, Marbella’s Michelin-starred establishments are a testament to the city’s flourishing gastronomic culture. Whether you’re seeking traditional Andalusian flavours or adventurous culinary creations, Marbella offers a dining experience as refined and varied as its spectacular coastal vistas.
