Marbella, a beautiful resort town on Spain’s Costa del Sol, is famous not just for its luxury lifestyle and beaches but also for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Among all the culinary delights, paella is a must. Delicious paella, with its unique recipes and high-quality ingredients, is a prominent dish offered at various restaurants in Marbella. This guide will take you through everything you need to know to enjoy the best paella Marbella has to offer.
The History of Paella
Paella in Spain
Paella, from the region of Valencia, is a traditional Spanish dish loved by foodies around the world. The name “paella” comes from the Latin word patella, meaning pan, which is the wide, shallow pan used to cook it. Traditionally paella was cooked over an open fire, that’s why it has a smoky flavour.
Paella Evolution
Over time paella has gone from a humble farmer’s meal to a star dish in Spanish cuisine. Each region in Spain has added their own twist to the recipe, using local ingredients and flavours. Marbella with its fresh seafood and Mediterranean produce has created its own style of paella and other rice dishes.
Paella Culture
Paella is more than a dish, it’s a symbol of Spanish culture and community. Traditionally paella was cooked for big gatherings, to bring people together to share a meal. This culture is very much alive in Marbella where paella is the star of social events and family get togethers.
Paella Marbella Varieties
Seafood Paella
One of the most popular in Marbella is seafood paella. This is a feast for the senses, made with succulent seafood, including the freshest prawns, mussels, and clams, with saffron rice. Being a coastal town, Marbella ensures the seafood is top quality.
Ingredients in Seafood Paella:
- Prawns
- Mussels
- Clams
- Squid
- Saffron
- Olive oil
- Garlic and onions
Mixed Paella
Mixed paella is the best of both worlds, a mix of seafood, chicken and vegetables. Perfect for those who want to try a bit of everything in one dish. The addition of green beans and other local vegetables makes the paella more tasty and nutritious.
Ingredients in Mixed Paella:
- Chicken
- Prawns
- Mussels
- Clams
- Green beans
- Bell peppers
Black Rice Paella
For something different try the black rice paella. This is made with squid ink, the rice is black and has a deep flavour. A must try for adventurous foodies who want to try different aspects of Spanish cuisine.
Ingredients in Black Rice Paella:
- Squid ink
- Fresh squid
- Prawns
- Saffron
- Olive oil
- Garlic and onions
Vegetarian Paella
Vegetarian options are also available in Marbella, vegetarian paella is a popular choice. Made with fresh vegetables and saffron this is a delicious and healthy alternative to the meat and seafood ones.
Ingredients in Vegetarian Paella:
- Green beans
- Bell peppers
- Artichokes
- Tomatoes
- Saffron
- Olive oil
- Garlic and onions
Paella Restaurants in Marbella
La Bocana Restaurant
Located in a prime position with sea views La Bocana Restaurant is famous for its paella and fresh seafood. They offer a range of paellas, seafood, mixed and vegetarian. Great food and great views make it a top choice for paella lovers.
Chiringuito Los Tony’s
For a beach front dining experience Chiringuito Los Tony’s is the place to go for paella. Located on Fontanilla Beach this restaurant has a laid back atmosphere and a menu with some of the best paella in Marbella. The fresh seafood and local ingredients used in their dishes will tickle your taste buds.
Los Mellizos
For traditional Spanish dishes Los Mellizos is a must visit to try authentic paella in Marbella. They are famous for their seafood and well made paellas. Try their mixed paella for a meal to remember.
Más Restaurant
Más Restaurant has a modern take on traditional paella, with new recipes and cooking methods. Located in the centre of Marbella, perfect for trying something new while still having the classic paella flavours.
Other recommendations
- Puerto Banús: Luxury dining, several top restaurants with great paella.
- Golden Mile: Best restaurants in Marbella, paella options.
- La Paella: A little hidden gem in Marbella, traditional paella cooking.
What’s so special about Paella in Marbella?
Fresh Seafood and local ingredients
One of the main reasons paella in Marbella is so special is the fresh seafood and local ingredients. Being close to the Mediterranean Sea means the seafood is as fresh as it gets. Local vegetables, spices and herbs add to the authentic flavour.
Saffron rice
Saffron is an essential ingredient in paella, the rice is yellow and has a unique flavour. In Marbella saffron rice is a must in paella dishes, adds depth and richness to the meal.
Cooking methods
Marbella’s chefs use a combination of traditional and modern cooking methods to make their paella. Some stick to the old ways of cooking paella over an open fire, others use modern techniques to enhance the flavour and texture of the dish.
Marbella Paella in your kitchen
Classic Seafood Paella Recipe
Ingredients:
- Fresh prawns, mussels and clams
- Saffron rice
- Olive oil
- Garlic, onions and tomatoes
- Bell peppers and peas
- Fish stock
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a paella pan.
- Sauté garlic, onions and tomatoes until soft.
- Add bell peppers and peas.
- Add saffron rice.
- Add fish stock and bring to the boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until rice is cooked.
- Add the seafood and cook until done.
- Serve hot.
Mixed Paella Recipe
Ingredients:
- Chicken, prawns, mussels and clams
- Saffron rice
- Olive oil
- Garlic, onions and tomatoes
- Green beans and bell peppers
- Chicken stock
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a paella pan.
- Cook the chicken pieces.
- Sauté garlic, onions and tomatoes.
- Add green beans and bell peppers.
- Add saffron rice.
- Add chicken stock and bring to the boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until rice is cooked.
- Add the seafood and cook until done.
- Serve hot.
Black Rice Paella Recipe
Ingredients:
- Squid ink
- Fresh squid and prawns
- Saffron rice
- Olive oil
- Garlic, onions and tomatoes
- Fish stock
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a paella pan.
- Sauté garlic, onions and tomatoes.
- Add squid ink and stir well.
- Add saffron rice.
- Add fish stock and bring to the boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until rice is cooked.
- Add the squid and prawns and cook until done.
- Serve hot.
Paella with sea views
Beachfront Restaurants
Dining at Fontanilla Beach and other beachfront locations is a special experience where you can enjoy your paella with sea views. The Mediterranean Sea adds to the atmosphere and makes it unforgettable.
Recommended Beachfront Restaurants:
- Chiringuito Los Tony’s
- La Ola
- Soleo Marbella
Puerto Banús
Puerto Banús is a must for paella lovers. The area is famous for its luxury restaurants and has some of the best paella in Marbella. Food and location make it a top choice for visitors.
Top Restaurants in Puerto Banús:
- Pez Espada
- El Gran Gatsby
- Piucaro
Golden Mile
For luxury dining the Golden Mile is the place to go. This area has some of the best restaurants in Marbella and a range of paella experiences to choose from.
Notable Restaurants on the Golden Mile:
- Bibo Dani García
- Sea Grill
- Trocadero Playa
How to get the most out of your paella dining
Choosing the right restaurant
When choosing a restaurant to have paella, consider location, menu and reviews. Look for places that use fresh local ingredients and have a good reputation.
Tips:
- Check online reviews and ratings.
- Ask locals for recommendations.
- Look for paella specialist restaurants.
Paella and Drinks
Paella goes well with many drinks, Spanish wines, sangria and local beers. Choose a drink that matches the flavours of your paella for the full experience.
Recommended Drink Pairings:
- White Wine: Albariño, Verdejo
- Red Wine: Rioja, Tempranillo
- Sangria: Fruity and refreshing
- Cava: Spanish sparkling wine
When to go
The best time to visit Marbella for fresh seafood is in the spring and summer. Also visit during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds and have a more relaxed dining experience.
Best Times to Visit:
- Spring: March to May
- Summer: June to August
- Off-Peak Hours: Early lunch (12 PM – 1 PM) or early dinner (6 PM – 7 PM)
Paella FAQs
What’s the best paella restaurant in Marbella?
There are several top ones, La Bocana Restaurant, Chiringuito Los Tony’s and Los Mellizos. Each one is different and delicious.
How much is paella in Marbella?
Paella prices vary from restaurant to restaurant and type of paella. You can expect to pay between €15 to €30 per person.
Is there vegetarian or vegan paella in Marbella?
Yes, many restaurants in Marbella offer vegetarian and vegan paella. These are made with fresh local vegetables and a great alternative to the meat and seafood versions.
What’s different about Marbella’s paella?
Marbella’s paella is different because of the fresh seafood and local ingredients. The coastal location means the seafood is top quality and the local produce adds to the authenticity of the dish.
Are there paella cooking classes in Marbella?
Yes, several cooking schools and restaurants in Marbella offer paella cooking classes. These are hands on and a great way to learn how to make this Spanish classic.
Recommended Classes:
Enjoy the Paella Marbella Experience
Paella in Marbella is more than a meal, it’s an experience. From the history and many varieties to the top restaurants and sea views, there’s so much to see and enjoy. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, get stuck in and enjoy! and … ¡Buen provecho!.
