What are the Michelin star restaurants in Marbella?
Marbella: a destination backed by a magnificent selection of Michelin-starred restaurants
Marbella is one of Spain's most important gastronomic destinations, home to several restaurants awarded by the prestigious Michelin Guide that offer unforgettable culinary experiences, from modern Andalusian cuisine to innovative tasting menus.
What are Michelin-starred restaurants and why visit the ones in Marbella?
Michelin-starred restaurants are those recognised by the Michelin Guide for their culinary excellence, creativity and impeccable technique. Marbella, as well as being a high-end holiday destination, stands out for its gastronomic scene with unique concepts that blend local tradition, seasonal ingredients and international influences.
How many Michelin-starred restaurants are there in Marbella?
The city is home to several Michelin-starred establishments, including restaurants with one and two stars, offering everything from high-end Andalusian cuisine to Japanese and contemporary culinary experiences.
Michelin-starred restaurants in Marbella 2026
Here is the updated list, confirmed by the Michelin Guide and other recognised sources:
| Restaurant | Stars | Style | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skina | ⭐⭐ (2) | Contemporary Andalusian haute cuisine | Golden Mile, Marbella |
| Messina | ⭐ (1) | Creative fusion cuisine | Near La Bajadilla beach |
| Back | ⭐ (1) | Modern and creative cuisine | Marbella centre |
| Nintai | ⭐ (1) | Japanese haute cuisine | Marbella centre |
Note: Stars may be subject to changes each year according to the Michelin Guide. Always check the latest official edition before making a reservation.
Michelin-starred restaurants in Marbella
The culinary quality and variety in Marbella is unmatched, thanks to an abundance of fresh, local ingredients from both the sea and the mountains. Marbella currently has four restaurants recognised by the Michelin Guide 2026: one with two stars and three with one star.
Skina Restaurant
Skina is Marbella's most acclaimed restaurant, holding two Michelin stars. Located opposite the Parque de los Enamorados on the Golden Mile, in a charming historic cortijo, chef Mario Cachinero leads a seasonal Andalusian haute cuisine concept that blends tradition and avant-garde cooking. The space features its own wine cellar, a private dining room with terrace and a chill-out area, all under the direction of sommelier and founder Marcos Granda.
Why book at Skina?
- Complete gastronomic experience with wine pairings.
- Andalusian cuisine reinvented with modern touches.
- Intimate setting and personalised service.
Address: Av. Cánovas del Castillo 9, 29601 Marbella, Spain
Phone: +34 604 48 63 03
Website: restauranteskina.com
Book here
Messina Restaurant
Another must-visit is Messina, located near La Bajadilla beach. This restaurant stands out for its minimalist, modern design, offering two tasting menus that explore the best of creative cuisine. With Argentine chef Mauricio Giovanini at the helm, Messina fuses the finest Iberian and South American gastronomy, resulting in unique dishes that challenge culinary convention. Sommelier and front-of-house manager Pía Ninci completes the experience with an exceptional wine selection.
Highlights:
- Balanced tasting menus.
- Urban location, ideal for dinner after a walk along the seafront.
- Expert wine pairing with hand-selected wines.
Address: Av. Severo Ochoa, 12, 29603 Marbella, Spain
Phone: +34 952 86 48 95
Website: restaurantemessina.com
Book here
Back
Back earned its Michelin star in 2024 and retains it in the 2026 Guide. Under the direction of chef David Olivas, Back focuses on contemporary cuisine using high-quality local ingredients, combining tradition and modernity in creative dishes that have won over both critics and international diners alike.
Key features:
- Local cuisine reinvented with modern techniques.
- Sophisticated and creative atmosphere.
Address: Calle Pablo Casals 8, 29602 Marbella, Spain
Phone: +34 951 55 00 45
Website: Back Restaurante
Book here
Nintai
A Japanese restaurant that earned its Michelin star in 2024 and consolidates it in 2026. Nintai is known for its tasting menus and its focus on the purity and simplicity of ingredients. With just 12 seats, it offers an intimate experience that celebrates the very best of Japanese gastronomy.
Recommended if:
- You are a fan of high-end Japanese cuisine.
- You are looking for a highly personalised dining experience.
Address: Calle Ramón Gómez de la Serna, 18b, 29602 Marbella, Spain
Phone: +34 952 777 817
Website: Nintai
El Lago: a standout restaurant in Marbella
Nestled in a natural setting surrounded by lake views in the Elviria Hills urbanisation, El Lago is a benchmark for sustainable, locally sourced cuisine. Its Slow Food philosophy is reflected in every dish, using zero-kilometre ingredients and a firm commitment to sustainability. While it does not currently appear on the Michelin Guide 2026 starred list, it remains one of the most recommended restaurants in the area for its dedication to quality and authenticity.
Tips for visitors:
- Perfect for romantic dinners or special celebrations.
- Strong focus on seasonal vegetables and local fish.
Address: Urb. Elviria Hills, Avda. Las Cumbres, s/n, 29600 Marbella, Spain
Phone: +34 952 83 23 71
Website: restauranteellago.com
Book here
Lobito de Mar: a seafood reference on the Golden Mile
Directed by chef Dani García, Lobito de Mar is one of Marbella's most popular restaurants, with a concept centred on the finest seafood and Andalusian tradition. While it does not hold a Michelin star, it has built a loyal following and a well-established reputation within the Costa del Sol dining scene.
Specialities:
- Fresh seafood from the Costa del Sol.
- Traditional dishes with creative twists.
Address: Carretera de Cádiz, 29602 Marbella, Spain
Phone: +34 951 554 554
Website: Lobito de Mar
Book here
2026 Updates: Marbella's New Gastronomic Map
The Michelin Guide 2026 has reaffirmed Marbella as the epicentre of culinary luxury on the Costa del Sol. While established names continue to shine, this year is defined by the consolidation of new projects and the arrival of international concepts that are raising the bar even further.
Restaurants making their mark in the 2026 Guide
Beyond the stars, the Guide has highlighted establishments whose technique and produce put them firmly in the running for future recognition:
PurOsushi: One of the most talked-about newcomers this year. It offers a hyper-exclusive omakase experience for just 16 diners, where minimalism and the purity of the fish take centre stage.
Areia: Located in the heart of the city, this restaurant continues to gain admirers and mentions for its impeccable handling of seasonal produce and a wine list that rivals the best.
Leña Marbella (Puente Romano): Dani García's grill concept is not only a hit with diners — it remains a fixed recommendation in the Guide for its innovation in the use of fire and embers.
New Openings in the Area (Marbella and surroundings)
If you are looking for the latest in the local dining scene, these are the strategic moves you cannot afford to miss:
Dalmar (Benahavís): Set within a new luxury hotel in the area, this is the latest project from two-starred chef Benito Gómez (of restaurant Bardal). A concept that pays homage to local tradition with the refinement of haute cuisine.
Coya Marbella: Now firmly established at Puente Romano, it has become the go-to destination for high-end Peruvian cuisine, blending gastronomy and a vibrant atmosphere that defines the Marbella lifestyle.
Casa Eladio: Located in the Old Town, this family restaurant has evolved into a chef-driven concept that has already appeared on the Michelin inspectors' radar as one of the most genuine proposals in the city.
Gastronomic Investment Tips in Marbella
As luxury real estate experts at Marenco Real Estate, we know that proximity to these culinary landmarks adds immeasurable value to a property. Living near the Golden Mile or the Old Town is not just a matter of status — it means daily access to some of the finest dining in Europe.
Planning a gastronomic tour?
Bear in mind that for restaurants like Skina or Nintai, waiting lists can exceed two months during peak season. We recommend planning your reservations with the same lead time you would apply to finding your ideal home.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gastronomy in Marbella (FAQ)
Which is the newest Michelin-starred restaurant in Marbella?
Back, led by chef David Olivas, is the most recent addition to Marbella's select group of Michelin-starred restaurants, earning recognition for its creativity and local roots.
Are there Michelin restaurants near Benahavís or Estepona?
Yes, beyond Marbella's offering, the Benahavís area now has projects from renowned chefs such as Benito Gómez, cementing the gastronomic golden triangle of the Costa del Sol.
Which area of Marbella has the highest concentration of fine dining restaurants?
Without question, the Golden Mile (especially the Puente Romano complex) and the Old Town have the greatest concentration of luxury dining and Michelin recognition.
What does it mean to hold a Michelin star?
It is a recognition of culinary excellence awarded by independent Michelin Guide inspectors.
How many Michelin-starred restaurants are there in Marbella?
Marbella has four Michelin-starred restaurants in 2026: Skina (2 stars), Messina, Back and Nintai (1 star each).
Which restaurant has the most Michelin stars in Marbella?
Skina currently holds 2 Michelin stars.
Do I need to book well in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season, Marbella's Michelin restaurants tend to fill up quickly.
Are there options for vegetarians?
Yes, most Michelin restaurants in Marbella can adapt their menus to include vegetarian options upon request.
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