Guide to Andalucía - Eating out in Andalucía

Spain is an excellent destination for those who are truly interested in good food. In Andalucia the emphasis is on the freshest of ingredients, simply prepared so that the quality can be really appreciated. The Mediterranean diet with its emphasis on fresh fruit and vegetables, exquisite seafood and extra-virgin olive oil is one of the healthiest in the world.

In addition, what really makes eating out in Spain different from anywhere else is the sheer enjoyment and informality that prevails in the restaurants and bars. Here you will find no hushed silences or pretentious surroundings, just family and friends enjoying each others' company. What we particularly appreciate is that children are welcome everywhere, even in the smartest of restaurants. The staff are always happy to prepare something special for their youngest guests. Spanish children stay up as late as their parents, particularly in the summer, and they learn to appreciate good food at an early age. 

Everyone is familiar with paella, that classic of Spanish cooking but properly made with Spanish short-grain rice, saffron and the freshest of seafood it is an unforgettable experience. Gazpacho is also well known, but have you tried the Antequeran "porra", a thicker type of Gazpacho with Serrano ham?

Fresh Fish in a local restaurant

Moorish spices are heavily used in Spanish cooking - a reminder of Spain's Arab past - and they add a delicious but subtle touch to meat dishes, from "pinchitos" (small kebabs) to casseroles. Most meat is simply prepared on the grill or barbecue, flavoured only with olive oil and garlic. A favourite with children is always "pollo al ajillo" - tiny pieces of chicken cooked with lots of garlic and olive oil with bread to soak up the juices.

But most memorable are the hot tapas.  It could be a tiny piece of fried fish served with some perfectly dressed salad leaves, or a couple of grilled prawns or fried fresh anchovies.

Vegetarian

Eating good food is one of life's pleasures... and vegetarians and vegans needn't miss out. For a veggie night out why not try out Bistro Vegetalia situated in the Los Boliches area of Fuengirola, this Vegetarian Restaurant is a real gem. Extremely reasonably priced with friendly staff who are happy to help and explain the dishes (which include vegan and lactose free), and most importantly great food. This isn't a vegetarian restaurant of the purely lentil, brown rice and bland variety but is far more exciting and innovative than that. I highly recommend the freshly squeezed juices, it may even tempt you away from the wine and sangria! One of my favourite restaurants in this area, I'd recommend to everyone including a carnivore on a day off. For reservations tel. 952 58 60 31