A place to enjoy
Discover El Tomillar
El Tomillar, nestled in the heart of Benalmádena, Málaga, is a quintessential Spanish bar renowned for its authentic cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. This local gem prides itself on serving freshly prepared dishes, including delectable seafood platters, traditional oxtail, and mouthwatering tapas. Patrons are treated to an experience that evokes the essence of Spanish culture, as the establishment buzzes with the lively presence of local workers, from taxi drivers to municipal staff. With friendly service and true value for money, El Tomillar is a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine flavors and a taste of everyday Spanish life.
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El Tomillar
Welcome to El Tomillar, an authentic Spanish bar nestled in the vibrant heart of Benalmádena, Málaga. Located at bloque 7 local 1, C. Luis Vives, 4, this hidden gem captures the essence of traditional Spanish cuisine. With its welcoming atmosphere and a steady stream of local patrons, El Tomillar has firmly established itself as a favorite among both residents and visitors alike.
The charm of El Tomillar lies in its commitment to serving authentic dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Diners can indulge in a delightful variety, from hearty oxtail and rich estofado to tempting seafood platters and exquisite tapas. The kitchen is alive with the sounds of sizzling pans, as the chef prepares dishes that are steeped in tradition and flavor. It’s not just a meal but an experience that transports you to the heart of Spain.
Customer reviews highlight the exceptional service and great value for money, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy a genuine Spanish dining experience. Darren Melton praised the “excellent service” and noted the “great variety of dishes,” while Beverley Bovett emphasized the lively atmosphere, where locals—ranging from workers to taxi drivers—gather to take a well-deserved break.
The ambiance at El Tomillar adds to its allure: the friendly staff, including Paco and Maria, embody the essence of Spanish hospitality, even if the language barrier might require a little creative communication. Diners like rae rendell mention the joy of witnessing authentic cooking in action, with fresh ingredients brought in daily, ensuring every dish is bursting with flavor and authenticity.
For families, Steevi Jakubik attests to the bar's relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for Sunday gatherings over tapas and drinks. It’s a place where time feels slower, and the food is cherished—exactly what you would hope for in a real Spanish tapas bar.
In summary, El Tomillar is not just a restaurant; it's a celebration of Spanish culture and cuisine. With its delicious offerings and warm, inviting environment, it’s a place where food lovers can come together, share stories, and enjoy meals prepared with love. Whether you're a local or a traveler, El Tomillar promises to deliver an unforgettable dining experience that embodies the true spirit of Spain.
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“ Excellent service, great variety of dishes (for visitor like me at least) and good value for money. Highly recommended. ”
“ I live here and like the normal working guys cafe. Here it is so. Food good service friendly. Prices are as you'd expect for the local Spanish customers. ”
“ A typical Spanish bar. Oxtail, estofado., seafood platters, great tapas. Paco and Maria speak no English, but don't be put off. Open early and filled with working locals.... bin men, taxi drivers and the policia local all take their breaks here.... always busy ... give it a try ”
“ The real deal, authentic Spanish food cooked from scratch ( I saw the cook bobbing in & out for her veggies whilst we were there). Full of locals & workers coming in for their tapas drinks & menu del dia. Nothing fancy nothing posh just good traditional Spanish dishes. With the help of Google translate & much patience on the behalf of the staff we had a lovely freshly made lunch of :- plato 1 - Paella with chicken & cockles, that had lots of deep flavour. plato 2 - pork in a very tasty tomato sauce & fries. 22 euros including 3 small beers & 2 tapas on the casa while we waited the 25 minutes for the Paella to finish cooking. If you want authentic, this is the place. If you want fancy you need to go elsewhere ”
“ I always visit this bar on Sundays with my family, it's a very down to earth Spanish bar, just what you would want to expect from a real Spanish tapas bar with good Spanish food :) ”