Roasted Sardines on Skewers – A typical Malaga Delicacy!

By: Malaga.us - #Costa del Sol #gastronomy #Malaga

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With the arrival of May, the roasted sardine season kicks off in Malaga. We tell you everything about this delicacy typical of the Alboran Sea—that is to say, the coast of Malaga.

You love fresh fish? Then you can’t miss the roasted Sardines on Skewers. You typically will find them only at traditional beach bars a mere few metres from the seashore.

So put on your sandals and follow us!

What are the roasted sardines on a skewer all about?

Espetos de sardinas (sardines roasted on a skewer) are one of the culinary icons of Malaga and the Costa del Sol.

It is a dish steeped in tradition that originated in Malaga. Specifically in the fishing district of El Palo, in the late 19th century at the merendero (seaside eatery) known as “La Gran Parada.”

The dish consists of skewering 5 or 6 sardines onto a cane reed and roasting them over an open fire. Traditionally with the skewers planted directly into the sand or set within repurposed fishing boats found at the chiringuitos (beach bars).

Roasted sardines and other fish at La Malagueta Beach, Malaga

Incidentally, in case you didn’t know: The beach bar (chiringuito) itself is also a purely Malagueño invention.

Therefore, the experience of enjoying freshly roasted sardines straight off the coals, just a few metres from the sea, is something you won’t find anywhere else in the world—only in Malaga!

Roasted Sardines Season in Malaga

The best time to enjoy authentic sardine *espetos* in Malaga is during the months without an “r”: May, June, July, and August. Although they are consumed year-round, during this summer period, the sardines accumulate more fat due to the warmer waters, making them tastier and juicier.

But don’t worry if you visit Malaga at another time: even outside the summer months—when the sardines are smaller and less fatty—they are still a delight to savour.

The Art of the Skewer cook

The guy standing by the glowing embers, in charge of roasting the sardines, is called Espetero.

He skewers the sardines onto long, slender canes and roasts them over an olive-wood fire. Usually are used old fishing boats set directly on the sand. Far from being a simple task, this requires great skill to achieve the perfect doneness without burning the fish.

A skilled espetero has mastered the technique for coaxing out the finest flavours. This traditional culinary art of Malaga is a craft passed down from father to son, generation after generation. In fact, is this craft so popular that every summer are held competitions to crown the best espetero on the Costa del Sol.

Annual Sardine Skewer Competition

The final of the 2026 Costa del Sol Sardine Skewer is typically held in early August in Torremolinos.

Specifically at Costa Lago Beach or La Carihuela will come together the province’s finest espeteros showing their craft.

Annual Sardine Skewer Competition in Torremolinos

The gastronomic event starts in the afternoon. You can enjoy live music and a festive atmosphere and of course deliciously prepared sardines on skewers.

Further information

Where to Eat the Best Roasted Sardines in Malaga

Along the Costa del Sol, there is an incredibly high number of chiringuitos (beach bars) and beach clubs. Depending on the area, you might find one every 200 metres.

A simple tip

To taste the best Roasted Sardines in Malaga, you undoubtedly need to seek out a traditional chiringuito where they are served in the authentic style.

In other words, family-run beach bars—without the elaborate Balinese or “chill-out” decor that is currently so fashionable along the coast.

Let your nose be your guide.

They tend to be beach bars with simple decor—often featuring plastic chairs and a few tables set right in the sand.

Let your nose be your guide. The aroma of sardines roasted over a wood fire is unmistakable. And as you draw closer, you’ll spot a small boat filled with sand, where fish and seafood are slowly roasting over glowing embers. This is the place for you.

Typical Fishing Neighborhoods of Malaga

If you are in Málaga city, you shouldn’t miss a visit to its quintessential fishing neighbourhoods: El Palo and Pedregalejo, located in the eastern part of the city.

Pedregalejo district in the eastern part of Malaga city

These neighbourhoods are well-known and popular among Malagueños for their bars and chiringuitos (Beach Bars), where you can enjoy excellent, high-quality ingredients at good prices.

Huelín and La Misericordia are also very popular, especially among the locals.

Where to Eat the Best Espetos in Malaga

The Malaga Gastronomic Academy has published a selection of where to find the best sardine espetos. We have expanded upon this with some of the most highly recommended beach bars in Malaga.