If you’re visiting our town, finding the best tapas bar in Fuengirola should be high on your list. This vibrant coastal town is packed with fantastic spots where you can enjoy delicious small plates, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for gourmet creations, traditional Andalusian tapas, or the freshest seafood, Fuengirola has it all.
Here’s our expert guide to the top tapas bars in Fuengirola, recommended by us, locals.
Best gourmet tapas bars in Fuengirola
If you’re looking for creative, high-quality tapas that go beyond the classics, these are the best places to try.
1. Charolais Tapas – The Michelin-Recognized Favorite
📍 Calle Larga, 14
⭐ Google Rating: 4.4+
Charolais is an institution in Fuengirola, known for both its fine dining restaurant and its excellent tapas bar. With Michelin recognition, this spot blends Basque and Andalusian flavors with outstanding execution. Try their Iberian pork, foie gras, or seafood tapas, all paired with an extensive wine selection. A must-visit for food lovers. Here you can find their menu
2. Tanico’s – A Local’s Favorite for Wine & Tapas
📍 Calle Blas de Lezo, 2
⭐ Google Rating: 4.6+
A stylish yet relaxed gastrobar, Tanico’s is loved by locals for its carefully crafted tapas and exceptional wine selection. Dishes like oxtail empanadas, grilled octopus, and Iberian ham croquettes make this spot stand out. Perfect for a date night or a laid-back evening with friends. Website (not a good website).
3. Picoteo – The Best Price-Quality Gourmet Spot
📍 Plaza de los Chinorros
⭐ Google Rating: 4.1+
Located in one of Fuengirola’s most vibrant squares, Picoteo serves gourmet-style tapas at a great price. Their red tuna tartare, carabinero croquettes, and slow-cooked beef cheek are local favorites. The mix of a lively atmosphere and high-end flavors makes this an excellent choice. Website.
Best traditional tapas bars in Fuengirola
For those who love classic Spanish tapas, these bars deliver authentic, homemade flavors in a cozy setting.
4. El Octopus – The Best Quality for Traditional Tapas
📍 Calle Marconi, 49
⭐ Google Rating: 4.5+
This small, family-run tapas bar specializes in grilled squid, pil-pil prawns, and fried anchovies. With generous portions and unbeatable freshness, El Octopus is the go-to spot for those seeking high-quality, no-frills Spanish tapas. Telephone.
5. La Bodeguita del Tapeo – Most Popular Among Locals
📍 Calle Marconi, 48
⭐ Google Rating: 4.6+
This place is always packed, and for good reason. Expect Spanish omelet, boquerones en vinagre, and pulpo a la gallega, all served in a friendly, buzzing environment. The pricing is fair, the portions are large, and the service is quick. Arrive early to grab a seat! Telephone.
6. Taberna La Abuela – Best Price-Value Traditional Spot
📍 Calle Torrealta, Los Boliches
⭐ Google Rating: 4.4+
A hidden gem that follows the Granada-style tapas tradition—order a drink, get a free tapa. They serve home-cooked stews, flamenquines, and mini sandwiches, making it a top choice for budget travelers and locals alike.
Best seafood tapas bars in Fuengirola
Being a coastal town, Fuengirola offers fantastic seafood tapas. Here’s where to find the best mariscos (tapa version), but don’t forget to visit our article about Best Seafood Restaurants in Fuengirola.
7. Los Mellizos – The Highest-Quality Seafood Tapas
📍 Calle Miguel de Cervantes, 1
⭐ Google Rating: 4.3+
Los Mellizos is legendary for fresh seafood, serving grilled sardines, langoustines, and seafood paella. Though slightly more expensive, the quality is unmatched. Great for a special meal or an indulgent tapas night. Visit website.
8. El Choco – The Local’s Favorite Seafood Bar
📍 Calle Francisco Cano, 13
⭐ Google Rating: 4.6+
A small, no-frills spot that specializes in fried seafood and grilled pulpo. This is where Fuengirola locals go for their “pescaito frito.” Try the clams, baby squid, or shrimp fritters, all at very reasonable prices. Website.
9. El Repipi – Best Price-Quality Seafood Tapas
📍 Calle Miguel Bueno, 4
⭐ Google Rating: 4.3+
If you want great seafood without spending a fortune, this is the place. Their mix of fried fish, prawns, and seafood stews is generous and delicious. A true hidden treasure. Website.
Local Tips for enjoying Tapas in Fuengirola
✔️ Arrive early! The best tapas bars fill up quickly, especially in the evening. Get there before 8:00 PM to grab a table.
✔️ Order house specials. Each bar has signature dishes—ask the waiter for recommendations.
✔️ Tapas can be free in some places. In traditional bars like Taberna La Abuela, your drink comes with a free tapa.
✔️ Pair with local wines. Andalusian wines, sherries, and vermouths are perfect pairings for tapas.
✔️ Explore different areas. While Plaza de los Chinorros is the most famous tapas hub, don’t miss Los Boliches and Fuengirola Marina for more local vibes.
Where to Find the Best Tapas Bar in Fuengirola?
Fuengirola is a paradise for tapas lovers, offering everything from Michelin-recommended gourmet bites to no-frills, budget-friendly seafood spots. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, traditional Andalusian flavors, or a casual local experience, you’ll find it here.
So, where will you start your tapas adventure in Fuengirola? Let us know in the comments!
