A legendary Malaga chiringuito has won praise online for its unique food ordering system.
El Tintero has become one of the city’s most famous beach restaurants thanks to a tradition that has barely changed over the decades.
Instead of browsing a menu or waiting for a waiter to take orders, diners simply sit back and wait for the food to come to them.
Freshly cooked dishes emerge from the kitchen, before waiters walk between the tables loudly announcing what’s available.
If you spot something you fancy, you raise your hand and the plate is yours.
The unusual system has made El Tintero something of an institution, with thousands of glowing reviews online praising not only the quality of the seafood but the lively atmosphere.
One Tripadvisor reviewer wrote: ‘I’d heard good things about this place. The auction-style service is unlike anywhere else, the seafood is incredibly fresh and reasonably priced, and the staff are fantastic.’
Another described it as ‘the perfect spot by the sea to watch the evening draw in.’
The star of the show is Malaga’s famous pescaito frito (fried fish).
Among the offerings are plates of freshly fried anchovies, squid, baby squid, prawns and other seafood, alongside grilled octopus, clams, shellfish and traditional tortillitas de camarones.
Regulars say the fish is consistently fresh and praise the restaurant for offering excellent value despite its popularity.
A visit to El Tintero also makes an ideal excuse to explore the surrounding area of eastern Malaga.
After lunch, visitors can stroll along the seafront promenade or venture into the city’s historic centre, home to landmarks including the cathedral, the Alcazaba fortress and the Roman Theatre.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
