Of all the fantastic beach bars in and around Marbella, Los Sardinales, situated on Alicate Playa, El Rosario, is definitely one of the best. Perhaps the fact that Antonio Banderas´s villa sits proudly on the sands here enhances the feel good factor of this restaurant, but the food is unbeatable.

With ample parking nearby and good road access, Los Sardinales is only five minutes from the centre of Marbella in the direction of Elviria. Exit the road just after the Hospital Costa Del Sol on the opposite side of the road at the sign for El Rosario.

The service here is excellent and the staff are friendly. Open all day from lunch through to dinner, there is no hurry to leave your table and you can sit and enjoy the afternoon sun once you have eaten.

Last time we visited we chose the crisp white house wine to begin with while we pondered over the superb menu.

We decided to share a range of starters including Octopus Gallega, Boquerones al Limon with Tartare Sauce, Baby Squid, Gazpacho and Fresh Mussels Mariniere with the most delicious white wine and cream sauce.

Staying with a fish theme, although the menu also boasts some excellent meat and vegetarian dishes, we ordered the Mixed Seafood Paella, Fresh Grilled Sardines, Brochette of Monkfish and Salmon, and a Fresh Sole Meuniere with an exquisite lemon, butter and fresh herb sauce.

Everything was absolutely sumptuous and the chilled, dry house wine complemented the meal beautifully.

Fresh fruit, chocolate cake, ice creams and a varied selection of other mouth watering desserts are also offered on the menu, along with special dishes of the day.

Los Sardinales really does offer the very best of local cuisine in an amazing location. For reservations or further information phone +34 952 837 012.