Tapas are the heartbeat of Spanish cuisine.
They are represented as small, tantalizing plates, designed to awaken the palate and ignite conversation.
Well, that's their primary mission. At the very least.
Usually, they're made of olives, cheese, patatas bravas with a splash of oil. But really, this whole thing can vary quite a bit. Tapas can even be chips, croquettes, nuts, and olives, for example. And sometimes, it's just plain nothing besides.
And that's the beauty of it!
You never know what you're going to get when you walk into a new bar, restaurant, or any other eatery in Estepona.
It's a whole new experience.
*Even the Spanish people themselves enjoy it. They've coined a term for it: *tapear*. The idea is to go from one place to another, like a nomad, and try local tapas, discussing and reviewing them.
Why Estepona is Perfect for Tapas Lovers
Because people absolutely adore the food here. Tapas in Estepona are more than a culinary delight; they are a way of life. As you settle into your sea view apartments in Estepona, you'll quickly notice how the vibrant tapas culture brings people together, creating a warm and welcoming community. From lively conversations in cozy tapas bars to the tradition of tapear, hopping from one spot to another, tasting, and connecting, it’s an integral part of the city’s charm. Whether you're exploring the historic old town or enjoying the modern waterfront, tapas provide a gateway to Estepona’s warm and inviting lifestyle—something every new resident should embrace.
As the concept.
And it's hard to put into words how much. Like, it's a place where the flavors of the Mediterranean really shine through in the local cuisine. But it's also because the locals are really into trying new things in the kitchen, and they're not afraid to mix things up and give old, boring dishes a fresh start.
Best Tapas Bars in Estepona
Below, we've compiled a list of the best bars in Estepona, where you can enjoy delicious tapas, and much more.
Exploring Tapas in Estepona Old Town
The core of the town has largely transformed into a pedestrian sanctuary. So now pretty much anyone is free to wander at a relaxed pace through the streets liberated from vehicular traffic.
The absence of cars, coupled with the pervasive whitewashed architecture somewhat cultivates an atmosphere of serene tranquility.
Local boutiques, authentic bars, cultural enrichment places.
Thus, the Town Council is worth a visit, for example, as is the Casa de Cultura, which has a wide range of events. Another option is the Museo de Arte de la Diputación de Estepona, which has an interesting collection of art.
Oh, and there are also delicious Tapas to be savored here. And here, Mesón Casa Orta stands out. Situated in the historic district, it elevates homemade tapas with a sophisticated, yet modern twist. There's also a unique portioning system, allowing to order a single dish, a medium portion for sharing, or a substantial *ración complete* – for a full meal, that is.
Every dish is infused with home-style flavors, sure do.
Alternatively, on Calle Caridad, you'll find the El Típico Andaluz, a vibrant tavern (of a kind!) boasting a large, bustling terrace. Here, the focus is on the providing tasty combinations with wine, each of which is carefully selected.
Finally, we've got the La Esquina del Arte here, which is literally a vibrant tapestry of Spanish flavors. There, alongside classics, you'll discover inventive bites like tender artichokes crowned with a delicate quail's egg, creamy homemade tuna pate, and succulent stuffed scallops.
Sure thing, there's also a plenty of tapas.
For each taste and color.
And as in previous place, the carefully curated wine list complements every each of them, while the charming terrace, nestled on a people friendly street, offers a tranquil escape.
What to Try: Must-Have Tapas Dishes in Estepona
Now, let's talk about the delicious appetizers you have to try when you get to Estepona.
- Gambas al Pil-Pil
Gambas al Pil-Pil is a traditional Spanish dish
It's pretty straightforward, yet absolutely delicious. It's basically just shrimp fried with garlic and chili in olive oil. And pretty much any kind of shrimp may be used, but cooks usually do langostinos.
However, if you're feeling adventurous, go for whatever you like. A lot of places in Estepona will be happy to meet your needs and satisfy your cravings, like replacing white shrimp with red ones.
Or opposite.
Fun fact: the name comes from the sound that the shrimp make in hot oil – *pil-pil*, that is. And another one: if you add ground paprika to the shrimp, it becomes a whole different dish called Gambas al Ajillo. Strange, but true!
- Jamon Iberico
Jamon is basically Spain's national dish. It's a raw, dried pig's leg. For jamon, though, only the hind legs of the pig are used, which are cured whole.
However, the most popular kind is the Iberico, made from black pigs with black hooves, which is why it's also called *pata negra* – literally a *black leg*. These pigs are free-range and eat acorns.
This gives the jamon its rich, meaty flavor and aroma. Some people even say it tastes like marbled beef. And, well, that's true!
As for what jamon is paired with, the first thing that comes to mind is as a stand-alone dish, as an appetizer to dry, red wine or just beer. But it can also come as part of a cold appetizer: in sandwiches, for example.
Nevertheless, it goes great with olives, herbs, cheeses, tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, beans, and cauliflower, as well as potatoes, and pasta.
And it's also great in salads, soups, hot dishes, and stews – if added right before serving.
- Patatas Bravas
A classic Spanish dish, which features potatoes cooked to a golden crust and served with a savory sauce that gives a *spicy* and *deep* flavor.
Patatas Bravas are often served alongside a sauce made with mayonnaise and garlic. This gives an extra softness and creaminess that contrasts perfectly. Also, the dish is often garnished with fresh parsley or paprika, which adds bright colors and an appetizing appearance.
Conclusion
Estepona's tapas scene is truly an arras. Here, you'll find comforting flavors, prepared with recipes passed down through generations. But the truly vibrant blend are the tapas bars of course, as they offer unique and rewarding experience – you visit one place, then another, and then a third. And every time, you try something completely new and different.
Anyways, we hope you're already drooling over after reading this one!
And we'd absolutely love to know which tapas you liked best.
And did you like any of them at all?
