pedregalejo | Azahar Tapas

Updated January 2014

pez tomillo terraza

Imagine my surprise when I discovered last summer that Pez Tomillo is part of the Equipo Mpuntor group from Sevilla! I went back again on a recent visit to Málaga and remain impressed with the quality of the food and wine and also the service. And of course the restaurant space is fabulous, with the same fun retro-stylish décor that Mpuntor has become known for. There’s a charming covered terrace out front and an ample bar and dining area as you enter, with lots of comfortable seating. The rooftop is open in the evenings and is both restaurant and cocktail bar, offering a lovely seaview. I also like the spacious open kitchen where you can see your food being prepared.

The menu is pretty much the same as at chef Ernesto Malasaña’s cool and eclectic Bar Antojo in Sevilla. I actually think this is a good idea for this barrio as Pedregalejo already has a lot typical seafood restaurants and, especially for those who live out there, I can imagine Pez Tomillo being a welcome change. Both tapas and racións are available for most dishes. The bacalao “al carbón” is tasty plump salt cod in squid ink tempura, the stewed bulltail with creamy potatoes is super-tender, and the eggs with foie and fried potatoes is seriously decadent. There’s a very nice wine list and the very professional service provided by the young and enthusiastic staff is delightful and unstuffy.

From the centre of Málaga you can get to Pedregalejo by catching the Nº 11 city bus, taking a taxi or, as I did, enjoy a 40-minute walk along the seaside promenade (but watch out for speeding cyclists!).

Bread/Service Charge: 1€ PER PERSON