Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.
Eating out is an intrinsic part of the Andalusian lifestyle. Whether it’s sharing some tapas with friends over a prelunch drink or a three-course à la carte meal, many Andalusians eat out at some point during the day. Unsurprisingly, there are literally thousands of bars and restaurants throughout the region catering to all budgets and tastes.
At lunchtime, check out the daily menus (menús del día) offered by many restaurants, usually three courses and excellent value (expect to pay €8–€15, depending on the type of restaurant and location). Roadside restaurants, known as ventas, usually provide good food in generous portions and at reasonable prices. Be aware that many restaurants add a service charge (cubierto), which can be as much as €3 per person, and some restaurant prices don’t include value-added tax (impuesto sobre el valor añadido/I.V.A.) at 10%.
Andalusians tend to eat later than their fellow Spaniards—lunch is 2–4 pm, and dinner starts at 9 pm (10 pm in the summer). In cities, many restaurants are closed Sunday night (fish restaurants tend to close on Monday) and in inland towns and cities, some close for all of August.
Colorful and informal, this spot near the beach is known for its fried acedia (a type of small sole) and langostinos, which come from these very waters. The seafood paella is also catch-of-the-day fresh. In summer, the place gets packed with vacationers and locals.
This Bajo de Guía landmark, with a large terrace overlooking the water, serves delicious tuna tartare, chocos (cuttlefish), and exquisite locally caught langostinos de Sanlúcar, particularly recommended when washed down with a glass of local manzanilla. The dining area overlooks the large, busy tapas bar.
