Lunch by the beach in Nerja: the best spots by the sea
The best spots for lunch right by the water in Nerja. From fresh fish to Italian, with Henry's favourites and local tips.
I only ordered something small at first and ended up staying much longer than I'd planned. That happens to me often here on the Costa del Sol, especially when the sun's out and you're right by the sea. With the blooming bougainvillea and the peaks of the Sierra Nevada still white with snow, April really is something else here. The temperatures hover around 21-24 degrees, perfect for a long beach lunch.
LaMalaka at Balcón de Europa
One of the newer spots here is LaMalaka, right by the Balcón de Europa. I was curious what they'd made of it, because a place like that calls for high expectations, doesn't it? It's a whole complex with different concepts. I've been to LaSala myself, their restaurant section that's open all day. For breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you can go there at different times. They've got an extensive menu, from light salads to hearty meals. The location, right by the sea, is a huge plus, of course. The address is Calle Puerta del Mar 2T. It's easy to reach on foot from the center. I went there a few weeks ago with a friend who was visiting. We shared some tapas, including the boquerones fritos. They were exactly as they should be: lightly breaded and perfectly fried. He thought the price of the drinks was a bit higher than at other places, but that's the price for the view, I reckon. They've got a decent wine list too, by the way, if you're looking for something special. Good spot to settle down after a walk along the Balcón, especially if it's busy in the center.
Fresh fish at El Pulguilla
If you really want a local experience, then I'd recommend El Pulguilla. Just yesterday, a local friend recommended it, at Calle Almirante Ferrándiz 26. This place is always packed, and that's a good sign. They're especially known for their fresh fish and seafood. You'll see the fish platters outside already, so you know it's going to be good. I ordered the gambas al pil-pil and a portion of fried squid. Simple, but so tasty. It might take a while to get a spot, especially at lunchtime. But it's worth the wait. The service is quick and efficient, despite the crowds. They don't have an extensive menu full of surprises, but what they do, they do really well. The atmosphere is wonderfully chaotic and authentically Spanish. I've been here many times and I've never been disappointed. If you like fish, you've got to go here.
Italian classics at La Bottega
Sometimes I just fancy something other than fish or tapas. Then I head towards La Bottega Food & Wine.
They're at Calle Castilla Pérez 21C, a little away from the immediate hustle and bustle, but still easy to reach. This is a family business with an Italian-Mediterranean kitchen. I recently tried the 'pappardelle al ragù di cinghiale' there and it was truly excellent. That one's usually on the menu, so you can give it a go. They've got a really extensive wine list, if you're into that. For an Italian place, the prices here are very reasonable. I've tried several dishes there, from pizza to pasta, and everything's consistently good quality. They've got lots of vegetarian options too, which is always nice. It's a charming place, also suitable for an evening meal, but perfect for lunch. It's a lot quieter than the places directly on the Balcón, which is sometimes quite pleasant.
### Indian flavours at India Gate Tandoori For something completely different, if you're not in the mood for Mediterranean cuisine, one of the Indian restaurants is a good option. Personally, I like to go to India Gate Tandoori on Calle Pintada 51. This is the most popular Indian restaurant here in Nerja, and for good reason. I usually order the Butter Chicken or a Lamb Rogan Josh, always with garlic naan. I've actually never been disappointed. The staff there are very friendly and the dishes are freshly prepared. If you don't like it too spicy, ask for a milder version. They'll take that into account. They've got lots of vegetarian dishes too if you fancy that. A good alternative if you want something different for a change. You can also check the current opening hours via the chatbot Maria, just to be sure. By the way, if India Gate is full, Jewel of India is a good alternative. It's at Calle Antonio Millón 14. I tried the Prawn Madras there and it was very good too. It's a bit smaller, but the atmosphere is also fine and the dishes just as authentic. Both are a bit of a walk from the immediate center, but worth the climb.
### Padel after lunch If you've still got some energy after lunch, padel's a fun way to burn it off. As I wrote before about padel near Nerja, there are plenty of courts to be found. I often go to the club just outside the center myself. An hour of padel after lunch is perfect to keep moving before you settle down again for a cold drink. The courts are easy to book. Or if you're more into walking, the Axarquía has beautiful routes. From rugged mountain paths to deserted villages, as I wrote in "Walking inspiration in the Axarquía". A good way to burn calories and enjoy the landscape. After that, a beach lunch tastes even better. Worth it. Just do it.