Eating out in Grazalema
Eating out

Eating out in Grazalema – The definitive guide to bars and restaurants

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For a small village nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Sierra de Grazalema, the culinary scene has undergone a remarkable transformation over recent years, offering a delightful array of traditional flavours and innovative gastronomic experiences. When it comes to indulging in the local culinary delights, eating out in Grazalema presents an impressive range of options that cater to diverse tastes.

Despite its size, this charming village proudly showcases a variety of establishments, including burger bars, cherished tapas joints steeped in tradition, upscale restaurants, and the exciting emergence of innovative “gastrobars.”

Grazalema is well-known for its culinary traditions, and local restaurants offer a variety of typical dishes. One of the signature dishes is sopa de Grazalema, a hearty soup that features local ingredients such as bread, potatoes, beans, and vegetables. It is a traditional and comforting dish that represents the region’s culinary heritage.

Gazpacho or cold tomato soup
Refreshing gazpacho or cold tomato soup is a great choice for a starter during the summer months in Grazalema

Another popular dish in Grazalema is Migas serranas, a rustic preparation made with breadcrumbs, garlic, olive oil, and various ingredients like chorizo, bacon, or peppers. This dish is particularly enjoyed in the mountainous areas of Andalusia, including Grazalema, and showcases the use of simple and flavorful ingredients.

Cordero en salsa de manteca colorá is another highlight of the local cuisine. It consists of roasted or stewed lamb served with a rich sauce made from “manteca colorá,” which is seasoned pork lard. This dish offers a combination of tender lamb and a flavorful sauce that adds depth to the overall taste.

Cordero or roasted lambs leg
Slow roasted lamb with boiled potatoes or Cordero al horno

For game meat enthusiasts, Estofado de venado is a must-try dish. It is a venison stew cooked with red wine, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. This hearty and savory stew highlights the local hunting culture and the abundance of game meats in the region.

While the village cherishes its traditional roots, Grazalema also welcomes innovative culinary concepts that push the boundaries of taste and presentation. Amidst the cobblestone streets, one can find the allure of modern gastrobars, where traditional ingredients are reimagined in creative and unexpected ways. These establishments combine artistic flair with a passion for culinary craftsmanship, resulting in dishes that showcase Grazalema’s commitment to culinary evolution. From reinvented tapas that tantalize the palate to meticulously crafted fusion cuisine, these gastrobars offer a unique blend of tradition and innovation, catering to those seeking a cutting-edge dining experience.

Lastly, the Quesos de Grazalema, or cheeses of Grazalema, are renowned for their quality and craftsmanship. Made from the milk of the local Grazalemeña Merino sheep and Payoyo goats, these artisanal cheeses are a true delight. They are often served as part of cheese platters or incorporated into various dishes, adding a distinct flavor and texture to the culinary offerings of Grazalema.

Cheeses from the sierra de Grazalema
A fantastic selection of cheeses are on the menu in Grazalema

And, for the sweet tooths amongst you? A wide selection of desserts are available, such as boiled or baked sweet potatoes accompanied by honey or syrup, torrija (milk-soaked fried bread) served with warm toffee and vanilla ice cream, not forgetting the delightful assortment of pastries like “cubilete” (a sweet bread), almond cake, and “amarguillos” (almond cookies).

The Villa Turística in Grazalema – El Olivar restaurant

Among the products of Grazalema, cheeses, honey, and cured meats stand out. There is a wide variety of dishes available such as roast lamb, tagarninas revueltas (scrambled eggs with wild thistle), venison in sauce, wild asparagus soup, and the typical Grazalema soup, as well as a great variety of desserts like sweet potatoes (boniatos) cooked, boiled or baked with honey or vanilla ice cream, not forgetting the pastries (cubilete, almond cake, and amarguillos).

Hotel Fuerte Grazalema – “De La Tierra” restaurant

Experience the finest cuisine of the Grazalema mountain range without leaving the hotel. Discover the new venture of the renovated “De La Tierra” restaurant, whose name itself is a clear statement of its intentions and offerings. (From The Earth)

Hotel Fuerte Grazalema
The hotel Fuerte is located just 5 kilometres from the village of Grazalema

Check out prices and available dates for the Hotel Fuerte Grazalema at booking.com

Hospedería Casa de las Piedras – Patio de Diego restaurant

Inside the Casa de las Piedras hotel, you will discover the exquisite restaurant “Patio de Diego“. This charming establishment creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with a cozy fireplace in the dining area and a delightful patio where guests can indulge in their culinary experience.

Restaurante Patio San Diego in Grazalema
Fantastic food at the Patio de San Diego

The menu is a true delight, offering a variety of dishes showcasing a diverse range of meats from different sources. From traditional local stews to innovative creations, the restaurant’s offerings cater to all tastes. Additionally, seafood enthusiasts will be pleased to find a selection of fish dishes, including the renowned red tuna, along with flavorful rice dishes that are sure to satisfy the palate.

Check out prices at the Hospedería Casa de las Piedras here.

Rural hotel Tambor del Llano – La cocina del tambor

The Tambor Kitchen takes great pride in preparing dishes that honor local tradition while incorporating innovative elements. A key aspect of their culinary philosophy lies in their unwavering commitment to utilizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. To achieve this, they have established their very own farm, where they produce a variety of ingredients, including lamb and vegetables, ensuring the highest level of quality and taste.

Tambor del Llano rural hotel in Grazalema
Tambor del Llano rural hotel just a few kilometres from Grazalema

The farm-to-table approach at The Tambor Kitchen guarantees that every ingredient used in their dishes is exceptionally fresh and of the utmost quality. By raising and nurturing their own livestock and cultivating their own vegetables, they have direct control over the sourcing process, resulting in ingredients that are bursting with flavor.

Check out availability and prices for Tambor del Llano over at booking.com

Are there vegetarian options in Grazalema?
Vegan, vegeterain and gluten free food in Grazalema

Yes, vegetarian food options are fairly easy to find in Grazalema. Many dishes are made to order so the scrambled eggs with asparagus and Iberian ham can be made a delicious vegetarian dish simply by asking the waiter to cut out the Iberian ham.. 🙂 The same goes with many other dishes served in Grazalema. Salads and soups often have a sprinkling of ham or something else.

The key here if you are vegetarian, vegan or have any allergies is just ask the waiter. Tell them what you want and you will find everybody really helpful!

Our sister site Ronda Today has a great article for eating out in Ronda if you are a vegetarian! https://www.rondatoday.com/vegetarian-vegan-gluten-free-food-options-in-ronda/

Read on for the definitive “gastrolist” and eating out guide in Grazalema. Restaurants and bars in Grazalema

(Remember that opening hours are subject to change without notice!)

Restaurante Cádiz el Chico
Cádiz el Chico - Eating out in Grazalema
Delicious risotto at restaurante Cádiz el Chico in Grazalema.

This spacious restaurant is located in the center of the village and features two dining rooms. The first one also has a bar and some tables for tapas. Inside, there is another larger dining room with a patio, dedicated to formal dining and hosting celebrations.

The highlight here is the local lamb. In the dining room, you can enjoy specialties from the region such as sopa de Grazalema (a tomato based soup thickened with bread), lomo en manteca (pork loin cooked in lard), and fried eggs with potatoes and cured meats. The lamb, available in chops and also as oven-roasted legs, comes from the local area. They also offer unique desserts such as tarta de bellota (acorn cake), a recipe of their own, or goat cheese tart made with payoyo goats cheese.

Gastrobar Cocina de Gaidovar
Cocina de Gaidovar - Eating out in Grazalema
“Carré” in gastronomy refers to a cut of meat, which can be from lamb, pork, or beef. In the case of “carré de ternera” (beef carré), it is a cut that includes the ribs and part of the backbone.

Opened in June of 2023 by Sergio and Vyanca, the Cocina de Gaidovar is already proving to be very popular.

Says chef Sergio “The menu is still being defined, although there are already dishes that many customers have requested and cannot be removed, such as the prawn or ham croquettes (made with local iberian ham), and the mushroom and La Pastora cheese risotto.

Sergio says he was deeply influenced by the advice given to him during his training years “Cook traditional recipes, the ones your grandmother used to make, but with different techniques and textures”. These are elaborate dishes, with meat, and some things that he brought from his time in England, like the risotto, which he learned to make there, or spaghetti with pesto, pine nuts, and payoyo cheese.

Bar la Plaza
Bar Grazalema Plaza - Eating out in Grazalema
Croquettes with squash purée at Bar la Plaza in Grazalema.

This place offers a wide range of delights: tapas, seafood, cheeses, soups, cod dishes, revueltos (scrambled eggs with various ingredients), meats, desserts, and pastries. Delicious dishes are prepared to give you the most authentic taste of Grazalema.

Located on the Alameda/Plaza de España, here you can enjoy a generous portion of an appetizing dish while admiring the beautiful surroundings or savoring the rich traditional cuisine with your family.

Bar Rumores
Rumores bar Grazalema
A “Plato Combinado” of Fried eggs, grilled pork and chips – Bar Rumores in Grazalema.

Located in Plaza de España, Café Bar Rumores is the perfect choice for breakfast, tapas, and lunches. (Open every day from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)

Offering dishes from the traditional Grazalema cuisine with a personal touch including delicious soups, fresh salads, and locally sourced meats such as “secreto” (a delicious cut of pork), grilled steak, and oxtail.

Burger bar Kiboka (sports bar)
Kiboka burger and sports bar in Grazalema
Burger and chips in Bar Kiboka – Grazalema.

Bar Kiboka in Grazalema is where you can indulge in mouthwatering burgers and immerse yourself in the world of sports. This lively establishment is renowned for its delicious burgers and crispy chips, making it a must-visit spot for fast food enthusiasts.

Featuring two TVs, bar Kiboka provides the ideal setting to enjoy your favorite games and passionately support your teams. The energetic ambiance, complemented by music, sets the stage for a welcoming experience that appeals to the younger crowd.

Gastrobar La Posadilla
Eating out in Grazalema - Mesón la Posadilla in Grazalema
Octopus salad with crispy bread at the Posadilla restaurant in Grazalema.

The Posadilla Bar. now calls itself a “Mesón” after a recent (2022) change of ownership and has actually become quite a charming establishment and a go to “foodie” destination.

The menu combines traditional and international flavors and as it is nestled in the small town square along calle agua, the Mesón Posadilla restaurant offers a great dining experience where you can unwind and people watch whilst enjoying the food.

Tapas bar Casa Martin 1920
Casa Martin in Grazalema. Eating out in Grazalema
A selection of fine wine and cured meats awaits you at Casa Martin 1920 in Grazalema.

Casa Martin 1920 in Grazalema offers a unique dining experience where the owner-chef, Sergio, combines his passion for good food with a fine sense of humor. This small-plates-style restaurant near the main plaza showcases a menu filled with carefully prepared dishes. Sergio’s extensive knowledge of wines, including rare and exquisite options, adds to the dining experience.

Offerings include delightful starters like organic tomatoes with sea salt and olive oil, followed by tantalizing plates such as lomo Iberico and morcilla with local cheese. The highlight is the sashimi of wild tuna, a truly memorable dish. To complete the experience, Casa Martin offers classic desserts like dark-chocolate turron and a selection of fine sherries.

As you dine, Sergio shares food stories and provides warm hospitality. The restaurant attracts both locals and visitors seeking a relaxed and enjoyable evening. While there, you may also encounter Sergio’s friends and acquaintances who drop by for a drink, adding to the convivial atmosphere. Casa Martin’s reasonable prices allow you to select dishes of your choice from the menu, providing flexibility and freedom in your dining experience. Overall, Casa Martin 1920 is a place where culinary excellence, personalized service, and a warm ambiance come together, making it a must-visit gastronomic destination in Grazalema.

Restaurante Mesón el Simancon
Meson Simancon in Grazalema
Potatoes “a la pisto” with tomato and fried egg at the Mesón Simancon in Grazalema.

Restaurante Mesón El Simancón features a cozy tavern-style dining room that perfectly complements its outdoor terrace, providing guests with breathtaking views of the Sierra de Grazalema. The menu at this establishment is extensive and showcases a variety of dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients.

A standout specialty at Restaurante Mesón El Simancón is the succulent local lamb, prepared either as a delectably roasted dish or tender chops. Another highlight is the flavorful trout, which is prepared to perfection. These traditional dishes highlight the rich gastronomic heritage of the region.

In addition to these beloved favorites, the restaurant has introduced new dishes that have received rave reviews. Guests can savor the exquisite flavors of the oxtail stew, a hearty and comforting option. Another delightful addition is the venison loin accompanied by a luscious Pedro Ximénez sauce, adding a touch of sophistication to the menu. For those seeking a taste of the sea, the piquillo peppers stuffed with delectable seafood provide a delightful combination of flavors.

At Restaurante Mesón El Simancón, diners can immerse themselves in the culinary delights of Grazalema, enjoying the warm ambiance, stunning views, and a wide array of dishes that celebrate the flavors of the region.

  • Location: Plaza Asomaderos, 24 (The big car park in the centre of the village)
  • Tel: 956 132 421
  • Hours: 12pm to 4 pm and 7:30pm to 11 pm – Closed on Tuesdays
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mesonelsimancon
  • Instagram: @elsimancon
Restaurante El Torreon
El Torreon restaurant in Grazalema. Eating out in Grazalema.
The famous selection of croquettes at restaurante El Torreón in Grazalema.

El Torreón Restaurant offers a great culinary experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional dishes from the Sierra de Grazalema.

The menu features a variety of standout dishes, including acorn-fed ham, croquettes, creamed mushrooms, partridge and venison tenderloin. After indulging in the chef’s recommended delights, guests are treated to a complimentary shot of liqueur, adding a delightful touch to the overall dining experience.

On the ground floor the Restaurant El Torreon also has a cocktail and drinks lounge with a huge TV for sporting events.

Bar Zulema II
Zulema II in Grazalema
Iberian ham at Bar Zulema II in Grazalema

Bar Restaurante Zulema II offers a diverse range of cuisines including bar, Mediterranean, and Spanish. Guests can enjoy a variety of meals for lunch and dinner, featuring both local specialties and international favorites.

With advantages such as an inviting outdoor terrace, ample capacity, television screens, disabled access, a full bar, attentive table service, and the convenience of making reservations, Zulema II is a preferred dining destination in Grazalema.

    Gastrobar La Maroma
    La Maroma in Grazalema
    Fantastic burger and homemade potato fries at La Maroma in Grazalema.

    Gastrobar La Maroma offers a homemade preparation of its high quality food and they also cater for vegetarian, vegan and celiac guests. Indulge in the Gastronomy of Grazalema and experience the delightful evolution of their menu since its opening. With a selection of nearly 60 dishes, including tapas, Iberian products, toasts, homemade salads, and combination plates, Gastrobar La Maroma takes pride in their homemade approach while ensuring the utmost quality of the ingredients.

    During weekends, they also introduce specials menus featuring different variations alongside their regular menu, providing an authentic and attractive gastronomic experience for their weekend customers. It is truly a joy for them to offer a wide range of culinary delights at incredible prices without compromising on the first-rate quality they provide.

    Restaurante La Merina Brasa Autoctona
    La Merina Brasa Autoctona in Grazalema

    The only restaurant in Grazalema that fuses grilled meats with authentic oak charcoal from the region. The gastronomic proposal stands out for traditional dishes from Retinto meats to sea bass from the Barbate estuary, Almadraba bluefin tuna, Barbate preserves, the signature cheeses and cured meats of Cádiz.

    Cafetería Rotacapa
    Rotacapa cafe and breakfast bar in Grazalema
    Rotacapa is the go to place for “sweetooths” in Grazalema.

    A great place for coffee, breakfast and afternoon snacks. Delicious cakes and a very pleasant atmosphere with friendly staff.

    Bar la Tertulia

    A tapas bar frequented by the locals that like to play dominos and get together for a chat over a beer,

    • Calle Agua, 18
    • Tel: 622 094 451
    • Hours: Closed on Wednesdays – 11am to 4 pm and 6:30pm to 12am
    Bar Círculo la Unión de Grazalema

    This is the membership club in Grazalema. There are tables on the Plaza de España open to the public.

    • Plaza de España, 22
    • Tel: 630 143 047
    • Hours: 10am to 11pm
    Bar cafetería la Huella

    Mostly open on weekends for coffee, cake and drinks

    • Avenida Vázquez Pomar, 2 (The main carpark “asomaderos” in Grazalema)
    • Tel: 647 887 122 – 617 268 287
    • Hours: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays
    Bar el Copeo

    Breakfast and drinking bar frequented by the locals.

    • Location: Plaza Pequeña. (Opposite the statue of the bull by the entrance to the car park.)
    • Tel: 685 143 317
    • Hours: 8am to 11pm
    This article about eating out in Grazalema answers the following questions.
    • What are some recommended restaurants in Grazalema?
    • What types of cuisine are available in Grazalema?
    • Are there any traditional local dishes that visitors should try?
    • Are there restaurants that offer outdoor seating or terraces?
    • What are the options for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
    • Are there any renowned chefs or specialty dishes in Grazalema?
    • How can one make reservations at restaurants in Grazalema?
    • Are there any budget-friendly dining options or places for quick bites?
    • Do restaurants in Grazalema offer a children’s menu or family-friendly options?
    • Are there any recommended places for enjoying local wines or regional drinks?
    • What are some of the must-try desserts or sweet treats in Grazalema?
    • Are there any unique dining experiences or themed restaurants in the area?
    • What are some insider tips or hidden gem restaurants that locals recommend?
    A few translations
    • Sopa de Grazalema, a hearty soup with bread, potatoes, beans, and vegetables.
    • Migas serranas, a rustic dish with breadcrumbs, garlic, olive oil, and chorizo, bacon, or peppers.
    • Cordero en salsa de manteca colorá, roasted or stewed lamb with a rich sauce made from seasoned pork lard.
    • Estofado de venado, venison stew cooked with red wine, vegetables, and herbs.
    • Quesos de Grazalema, artisanal cheeses made from the milk of the local Grazalemeña Merino sheep.
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