Marbella, the luxurious hub of the Costa del Sol, is not just a playground for the rich and famous but also a culinary haven. Among its many foodie delights, the Michelin-starred restaurants stand out, each offering a unique dining experience that combines innovation, tradition, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Let’s delve into the stories and offerings of four of Marbella’s acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurants: Messina, Back, Skina, and Nintai.

1. Messina

Located near the beach, Messina is a culinary oasis. A recent refurbishment puts the chefs at the heart of the sleek, modern design. Chef Mauricio Giovanini, who hails from Argentina, leads this Michelin-starred establishment, bringing a fusion of Mediterranean and Latin American flavours to Marbella.

Messina’s menu is a testament to Giovanini’s creativity and expertise. Dishes are crafted with precision and presented with artistic flair. Signature offerings include foie gras with passion fruit, scallops with corn textures, and a variety of seafood dishes that highlight the freshness of local ingredients. The restaurant’s minimalist decor and ambient lighting create an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.

2. Back

Back is a modern bistro-style restaurant that combines fine dining with a playful touch. Located in Marbella, this Michelin-starred eatery is owned by renowned sommelier Marcos Granda and helmed by Úbeda-born chef David Olivas, known for his free-spirited approach to culinary creation. The menu is divided into “Our Classics,” featuring signature dishes, and “What is Changing,” supported by the Entorno tasting menu. Highlights include tuna ventresca, “porra antequerana” with iced red pepper and gazpacho water, and fried pigeon breast in a bread crust. Back balances technical skill with creativity, making it a delightful dining destination.

3. Skina

Tucked away in Marbella’s charming Old Town, Skina offers an intimate dining experience that has earned it two Michelin stars. With only a few tables, this restaurant provides a personalised and exclusive atmosphere, where guests can truly savour the culinary artistry on display.

Chef Mario Cachinero leads the kitchen at Skina, creating innovative dishes that blend traditional Andalucian flavours with modern techniques. The tasting menus, which change seasonally, feature exquisite creations such as smoked eel with beetroot and caviar, and Iberian pork with wild mushrooms. Each dish is a masterpiece, showcasing the chef’s skill and creativity.

Skina’s wine list is equally impressive, featuring rare and prestigious Spanish wines that are carefully selected to complement the menu. The restaurant’s commitment to excellence is evident in every detail, from the beautifully plated dishes to the impeccable service.

4. Nintai

For lovers of Japanese cuisine, Nintai is a Michelin-starred locale that brings an authentic and refined dining experience to Marbella. Another establishment owned by Marcos Granda, Nintai features a design based on pure lines, large windows, and several private dining spaces, along with a large sushi bar with 12 seats where guests can watch the chef at work. The restaurant offers tasting menus of different lengths (Omakase for lunch and Nintai for dinner), with an impressive sake menu that complements the dishes perfectly. The serene ambience enhances the overall dining experience, making it a standout choice for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts.

Marbella’s Michelin-starred restaurants, Messina, Back, Skina, and Nintai, each offer a unique and unforgettable dining experience. They all showcase the best that Marbella’s vibrant culinary scene has to offer. A visit to any of these restaurants is not just a meal, but a journey through the art of fine dining, where every detail is crafted to perfection.

If you are coming to Marbella, they are the ultimate in exclusive dining. For the ultimate in exclusive Marbella rental properties, speak to us!