Eating out in Spain and Andalucia

Having a meal in Spain is a completely different experience to eating out in most northern European countries. For the Spanish it’s not just about filling your stomach – it’s a whole social event. First though, you’ll have to get used to the timing. For the Spanish, lunchtime is between 2pm and 4pm (including a siesta of course), while few will even dream of having an evening meal before 9pm.Traditionally, this is due to the weather because during the height of the afternoon, it’s just too hot to work! And likewise, in the evenings, it’s best to wait for the sun to go down such is the warmth and humidity of the nights. This is particularly true in the warmest parts of Spain, like Andalucia.

The choice of food is also extensive, though each region of Spain will have its own speciality. For example, Valencia is particularly known for its paella (a rice dish full of meat and fish), while Malaga in the south is famed for is bocerones (small white fish from the region).While marina side restaurants (like the excellent El Catalonia in Marbella harbour) are particularly popular with visitors, due of course to the sea views, you’ll always find fantastic eateries in the centre of town.In some areas the ‘backstreet’ restaurants are often more likely to be authentically Spanish (and usually a lot cheaper). Don’t expect white table cloths and upmarket décor, but do expect home made food at fantastically cheap prices.Those are the places to go if you want some local atmosphere. You can also discover something called a venta, essentially a cheap café catering for workmen, where a three course meal (or menu del dia) and a whole bottle of wine will cost you as little as six euros!

Of course, Spain is an internationally-minded country, and if you want foods from other countries, it’s all here too. Chinese, Lebanese, Indian, Argentinian…whatever you fancy, you’ll be able to find it in Spain. And remember, eating out in Spain (particularly in the summer months) is essentially an outdoor activity. You’ll also find that kids are welcome in all restaurants – the waiters and waitresses will make a particular fuss over your offspring. A refreshing change to restaurants in less welcoming quarters of the world.

El Catalonia A trendy and friendly restaurant with a lovely terrace overlooking Marbella leisure port.

El Rincón de la Paloma Enjoy in our terrace a delicious international menu, featuring authentic Argentinian meat and...