
6 of the best restaurants in Costa del Sol to celebrate our most special moments
Andalusia is a synonym of proximity, of good food, of always having an extra place at the table and a reason to toast. With its rich cultural and gastronomic heritage, it is no surprise that Costa del Sol is home to a variety of restaurants to celebrate any kind of event; from birthdays to long-awaited family gatherings, romantic anniversaries or, with the arrival of the festive season, Christmas dinners.
With a vast array of options and atmospheres to choose from, selecting the perfect restaurant in Costa del Sol can be challenging. Therefore, the following are our suggestions for the best restaurants in Costa del Sol to celebrate those special moments:
Picador Restaurant
Picador is a restaurant located in the village of Mijas, Costa del Sol, with a 100% Andalusian soul in each and every one of the senses. We can feel it as soon as we set foot in it, with its liberal atmosphere, southern market aromas, flamenco music in the background and desire to celebrate life… Among its traditional recipes, a love for the local culture and regional produce prevails. Its characteristic way of serving the dish in the centre of the table makes Picador the perfect restaurant for celebrations with family and friends. Everything is shared here… the recipes that ooze tradition, the wines, including the most renowned of them which can be ordered by the glass, and the most special moments. Book your table at Picador restaurant and enjoy Andalusian cuisine in all its splendour.
Balausta Restaurant
Located in a former 18th-century Andalusian palace in the heart of Málaga, Balausta is, without a doubt, the perfect restaurant to celebrate an anniversary over an elegant lunch or dinner. With a strong focus on local produce, its gastronomic offer stands out for its tradition and originality, with Michelin-starred chef José Carlos García and head chef Marcos Granados at the helm of the kitchen. Under the rays of sun or the Málaga moonlight that illuminates Palacio Solecio’s porticoed patio, the restaurant pays homage to Málaga’s gastronomic culture, but always with a glance to the future.
Lobito de Mar Restaurant
Lobito de Mar has become a sensation in Costa del Sol. After all, it is impossible to talk about Andalusian gastronomy without mentioning Michelin-starred chef, Dani García. This restaurant is one of his five establishments in his hometown of Marbella and offers traditional Mediterranean cuisine on the city’s Golden Mile, a prime location for a memorable occasion. This self-described “bar resalao” exudes a special light, charming diners with its extensive menu and ambience that combines the sophisticated with the casual. Undoubtedly one of the best restaurants in Costa del Sol that will leave you wanting to return.

Palmito Restaurant
La Zambra awakens a sense of freedom that allows our guests to let themselves go and celebrate in style or privacy. And it is no surprise that our restaurants in Mijas, Costa del Sol, share the same philosophy. Palmito restaurant takes us on a journey through the Mediterranean without forgetting its roots, the land that gives life to the ingredients of its wide culinary offer. Its relaxed and sociable atmosphere makes this restaurant the ideal place to indulge, both by day and by night, and enjoy a meal with our friends and family accompanied by renowned wines from various national and international appellations of origin.
Bodega Charolais
Located in the nearby town of Fuengirola, Bodega Charolais is a must for locals seeking a place to gather and celebrate their love of good food. With almost 30 years of history, the restaurant is renowned for its cuisine that merges the best of the north and south, featuring Basque and Andalusian recipes combined with the freshness of local produce. It also stands out for its acclaimed wine cellar, which includes numerous applauded national and international wines to toast and accompany its best-known dishes.

Bamboleo
When it comes to celebrations, Bamboleo restaurant in Mijas meets all the requirements for a very special rendezvous: a terrace with the best southern sunsets, an innovative proposal of signature cocktails and exquisite bites that will leave you wanting more. With a name that pays homage to Julio Iglesias, one of the most acclaimed guests of the former Byblos Hotel, it’s no wonder that Bamboleo is the go-to spot for those looking to feel free and celebrate in a setting where everything goes.
Forget all about the “where to book” worries with these suggestions of the best restaurants in Costa del Sol that guarantee the perfect atmosphere for a celebration you will not want to forget. Moreover, with the festive period in full swing, discover our gastronomic options to experience Christmas and New Year’s Eve in an authentic La Zambra style. Enjoy a moment that deserves to be celebrated and remembered for years to come.