Embark on a Gastronomic Journey through Marbella’s Michelin Star restaurants

As a food lover, there’s no better way to experience the essence of a city than by exploring its culinary scene. And in Marbella, you’ll find some of the world’s most renowned Michelin-starred restaurants that offer a truly unforgettable dining experience. From the traditional flavours of Andalusia to the innovative fusion of Mediterranean and Japanese cuisine, Marbella’s finest restaurants showcase a diversity of culinary styles that are sure to tantalise your taste buds.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for an extraordinary dining experience, the four Michelin-starred restaurants we’ve introduced you to – Skina, Messina, El Lago, and Nintai – promise to delight you with their exquisite food, impeccable service, and unique atmosphere. So, take a culinary journey with us and discover the best Michelin-starred restaurants in Marbella – a culinary guide that’s sure to inspire and satisfy your appetite.

All Michelin restaurants in Marbella an overview

Join us to explore Michelin-starred marvels like Skina and Messina, find serenity and exquisite flavours at El Lago, and experience the elegance of Japanese cuisine at Nintai. Let’s embark on this delicious journey and celebrate Marbella’s culinary gems together. Savour the adventure!

Skina

A Culinary Gem in Marbella Old Town. Nestled in the quaint, narrow streets of Marbella’s old town lies Skina, a two Michelin-starred restaurant that defies expectations. While often the most extraordinary experiences are found in unexpected locations, few would imagine discovering such a culinary treasure within a modest, four-table establishment.

Instagram @restaurantskina

Owned by the renowned sommelier Marcos Granda, Skina’s diminutive size is embraced as a strength. In his words, “What Skina has to offer is huge.” This sentiment is embodied in the exceptional dishes crafted by the talented young chef from Toledo, Mario Cachinero.

Cachinero’s approach to cooking is both imaginative and genuine, as he seeks to reinvent traditional Andalusian recipes with a contemporary flair. His culinary philosophy emphasises the harmony and contrasts that can be created by blending classic and modern flavours. To achieve this, Cachinero meticulously sources the finest ingredients, such as wild Galician fish caught using time-honoured methods, exquisite oils from Jaén’s mountain olive groves, and select cuts of meat.

Each dish is skillfully prepared to accentuate the natural flavours of these exceptional ingredients, providing guests with a memorable dining experience. While indulging in Skina’s exquisite cuisine comes at a price ranging from 200 to 500 euros per person, it’s an investment that promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

Step off the beaten path and explore the hidden gem of Skina, where the intimacy of the venue and the brilliance of the culinary creations offer a truly exceptional dining experience in the heart of Marbella Old Town.

Messina

A Culinary Haven in Marbella Blending Tradition and Innovation. Messina is a Michelin-starred restaurant that stands out as the embodiment of Chef Mauricio Giovanini’s culinary vision. With a deep-rooted passion for exploring diverse flavours and cuisines, Giovanini, along with his wife Pía Ninci, has crafted a unique gastronomic experience that transcends borders and challenges conventions.

Instagram @messinarestaurante

At Messina, diners are treated to an exceptional culinary journey that seamlessly melds European, Mediterranean, and Latin American influences, with a distinctive nod to Lebanese recipes. Underpinning this fusion of flavours is Mauricio Giovanini’s relentless pursuit of harmony and purity in his dishes, ensuring each ingredient is showcased to its fullest potential.

A pivotal moment in Giovanini’s career came when he discovered that the essence of flavour lies in the liquid components of food. This revelation led him to incorporate pure juices and their derivatives – such as concentrates and creams – as integral elements of his culinary creations. Over time, he has evolved his approach to embrace the use of natural thickening agents, adding an extra layer of depth and texture to his dishes.

As sommelier and front-of-house manager, Pía Ninci plays a vital role in elevating the Messina experience. Her carefully curated wine selections beautifully complement Giovanini’s innovative dishes, while her attentive and personalised service ensures every guest feels welcomed and valued.

Together, Mauricio Giovanini and Pía Ninci have transformed Messina into a true gastronomic gem in Marbella. Their unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and hospitality has earned them a well-deserved Michelin star, and their restaurant continues to delight and inspire food lovers from around the world.

Back

Dive into the culinary brilliance at Back in Marbella, where a Michelin star shines on its fusion of traditional Spanish flavours and cutting-edge culinary techniques. Each dish, a unique creation, promises to tantalize your taste buds with its inventive flair.

Instagram @backrestaurante

The setting at Back matches its food in elegance and sophistication. Soft, warm lighting and contemporary design elements blend to craft an ambiance that’s both welcoming and stylish, perfect for any special occasion or a refined night out.

Experience dining under the stars on their serene outdoor terrace or enjoy the chic indoor seating. Conveniently located, Back is easily accessible, with ample parking available, ensuring a hassle-free visit to this gastronomic haven.

Don’t miss this exceptional dining opportunity at Back, a true gem in Marbella’s vibrant culinary scene with a Michelin star! Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply seeking a memorable meal, this restaurant’s innovative approach and exceptional service are sure to impress.

Nintai

Nestled in the heart of Marbella, Nintai is a captivating one Michelin-star restaurant that offers an exquisite Japanese dining experience. This gastronomic endeavour is the brainchild of celebrated sommelier Marcos Granda, whose journey to Japan at the end of 2019 left him awestruck by the nation’s rich culture and dedication to the finest ingredients. These profound impressions inspired Granda to bring the essence of Japanese culinary artistry to life through Nintai.

Instagram @restaurantenintai

The restaurant’s design showcases clean lines, expansive windows, and multiple private dining spaces that create an elegant and soothing atmosphere. A prominent feature of Nintai is its spacious 12-seat sushi bar, where guests can marvel at the chef’s “itamae” style of cooking as they witness the creation and improvisation of delectable dishes.

Nintai invites diners to indulge in a serene ambiance, setting the perfect mood to enjoy its exceptional tasting menus. The Omakase menu, available exclusively for lunch, and the Nintai menu offer an array of unforgettable flavours. A delightful surprise awaits guests with the restaurant’s unconventional dessert selection, which deviates from traditional Japanese fare.

To complement the dining experience, Nintai boasts one of the finest sake menus in Spain. Prices per person range between 120 and 150 euros, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to providing a top-notch culinary journey.

Embark on an extraordinary gastronomic adventure at Nintai, where the enchanting blend of Japanese culture and the finest ingredients come together to create a truly unforgettable dining experience in Marbella.

Conclusion

The vibrant city of Marbella, renowned for its luxurious lifestyle and stunning landscapes, is also a haven for gastronomic enthusiasts. Its array of Michelin-starred restaurants – Skina, Messina, Back and Nintai – offer a unique and unparalleled dining experience. From the intimate charm of Skina to the fusion of flavours at Messina, The sophisticated and elegant ambiance of Back, and the exquisite Japanese cuisine at Nintai, each establishment delivers a memorable and exceptional culinary journey. Whether you are a discerning food lover or simply seeking an extraordinary dining experience, Marbella’s world-class gastronomy is sure to exceed your expectations and leave an indelible impression on your palate. So, take a seat, raise a glass, and indulge in the captivating flavours and artistry of Marbella’s finest dining destinations.