FEATURE
Festive flamenco
TABLAO Flamenco Marbella enters into the Christmas spirit this year with all of the festive tradition, art, and soul of Andalucia.
In the best climate in Spain, Tablao Flamenco Marbella continues taking its spirit to its terrace to celebrate the holidays both at lunchtime and dinnertime in the Plaza Santo Christo in the heart of Marbella.
Throughout the season, their daily Flamenco performances will be loaded with tones of the Christmas atmosphere, with Spanish Christmas carols and Zambombas, a traditional Christmas group of singers typical at Christmas time in Andalucia.
For an unforgettable Christmas Eve with your family or friends, the night of December 24 will be a unique gala experience celebrating in style surrounded by art, Fla-
menco and pure emotion with a luscious Andalucian menu beginning at 9pm. After dinner begins the Flamenco show loaded with all the joy of Tablao Flamenco Marbella at Christmas.
Then, see 2024 out as Tablao Flamenco Marbella ushers in the New Year with another menu of all the finest cuisine of Andalucia and an appropriately seasonal Flamenco show to take diners up to the gongs of the bells of the New Year and the traditional eating of the 12 grapes, bringing good fortune for 2025.
Both nights will be accompanied by the best quality wine, sangria, cava, and sweets, and will make for the happiest of 2024.
Bookings can be made on the Tablao Flamenco Marbella website or by calling (+34) 681 069 705.
Nutcracker Christmas ballet
Adam Woodward
THE Russian Ballet School will return to the Felipe VI Auditorium on Sunday, December 8, at 6pm, with ‘The Nutcracker’, one of the most universal works of classical ballet, and a ballet tradition at Christmas that represents union, neighbourly love, and sharing with the family. A Christmas story that awakens our imagination and takes us to the realm of fantasy.
The ballet libretto is an adaptation of Hoffman’s story. The showiness of its scenography and costumes, its imaginative characters, and the universal music of Tchaikovsky have turned ‘The Nutcracker’ into a timeless classic familiar with everyone. A magical show full of Christmas joy
that aims to reach all audiences, from the youngest, who may turn out to be future dancers themselves.
Tickets are on sale at: eternidadeventos. from €35, and at the Auditorium box
Sparkling winter wonderland
Adam Woodward
FROM the classic Calle Larios Christmas light show, where the heavenly angels twinkle to the sounds of Christmas carols, to the light show in the Historical Botanical
10pm, except Christmas Eve. The cathedral will be video-mapped with light show projections. The shows are at 7pm, 8.30pm, and 10pm, every day until January 4.
There’s the light and sound show at the La
maximum capacity of 400 people.
And then there’s the Parque del Oeste. It will be in Malaga until February 15 and has been created to honour the ancient culture and bring the people of Malaga closer to the celebrations of the Chinese New Year.
A total of 600 lanterns and 4,000 light points decorate the central area of Parque del Oeste. Times are 6pm, 9.15pm, 8.30pm and 9.45pm. Tickets are available from El Corte In-
From 1:00pm – 4:30pm 7:00pm – 11:30pm
International Theatre Studio party
RAPIDLY approaching the festive season, the International Theatre Studio (ITS) are planning their Christmas party.
ITS are inviting members and fans to book tickets for this brilliant evening of entertainment where they will be showcasing their talented members. Organised by Sheila Mellor, it is a fun, relaxed, sociable and enjoyable annual celebration being held at La Grappa Restaurant is in the Centro Comercial Las Palmeras on Friday, December 13 at 6.30pm.
me Caramel; Chocolate Mousse.
Specific dietary needs can be accounted for by contacting Ruth as soon as possible.
Bookings are now available online via the International Theatre Studio website and you will be asked to select the menu choices for each person. The deadline is Friday, December 7 and the cost per person is €37.
Choices are:
Starters: Vegetable Soup; Goats Cheese Salad; or Prawn Cocktail.
Mains: Roast Turkey; Vegetable Lasagne; Sea Bass - all served with vegetables carrots, peas and broccoli.
Desserts: Christmas Pudding; Cre-
On another note, the ITS announce they are so sorry to have had to postpone their event on November 13 to celebrate the life of June Rendle but this was a directive by the council to all residents and businesses given the serious weather warnings that had been predicted.
They made an immediate and full refund to everyone that had booked, and will, of course, be rescheduling the event to a new date and will advertise this as soon as possible.
Credit: La Grappa
Ctra. Mijas, Urb. Las Yucas, No. 1, Mijas – Málaga
Credit: Festival de Linternas
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Adam Woodward
PANTO season again, and Salon Varietés in Fuengirola is preparing something extra special this festive season to take us into the new year.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, starring Alexandra Avery, Toni-Leigha, and Owain Griffiths, and directed by Keith Spitalnick, is playing at the Salon Varietés theatre from Saturday, December 14 to Monday, January 6.
Snow White, currently ranked the ‘fairest in the land’, has her 18th birthday coming up, officially making her an adult. Her evil stepmother, the queen, is informed of the development by her magic mirror, and which advises her to kill Snow White. Muddles the jester and Whoopie Da Cookie get in the way of an
attempt on Snow White’s life, and so she escapes into the forest, where she becomes hopelessly lost.
With the Queen’s huntsman hot on her heels, she happens upon the cottage of the seven dwarfs.
Well, you know how the story goes, or do you? In the Salón Varietés there will be a few surprises along the way, including an inventive professor conducting a few experiments and making some interesting gadgets along the way, as well as plenty of silliness and mayhem.
Opening Saturday, December 14, until Monday, January 6, don’t delay in getting your tickets, as this event will sell like hot Christmas cakes.
Book online at salonvarietes.com or by calling 952 474 542, or at the theatre box office between 11-2.30pm on weekdays.
For over 20 years, we have been sourcing and providing the highest quality meat, both nationally and internationally, selecting only the finest cuts for our clients.
Exquisite Mediterranean Cuisine
ADANA success
ADANA (Association for the rights of abandoned Animals) held its Annual Christmas Fair at the Palacio Congresos in Estepona, Malaga on Sunday, November 24.
Everyone at Adana thanks everybody for their fantastic support which includes the attendance of around 2,000 people. The fair consisted of stalls and cubicles from which all types of arts and crafts were sold.
There was also music played throughout the day from a local DJ plus a refreshments area and a raffle drawn. The first prize was won
by Lizzie, which was a two-night bed and breakfast stay on the Sunborn Yacht Hotel based in Gibraltar.
Adana currently has 180 homeless dogs and puppies within the shelter and should you wish to volunteer to help in any way, they are currently seeking the following:
Dog walkers between 10.30am and 1.30pm, seven days per week, foster homes, maintenance and even help with keeping the cages
clean. You can also help by raising money or by getting involved with future events. Their dogs require every bit of help they can get and any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
They would like to say a huge thank you to those volunteers who gave so much of their time to help put the event on.
For those who should wish to volunteer, contact Nan on 711 008 199 or email adanavi cep@gmail.com.
We pride ourselves on using fresh produce from our own garden, complemented by locally sourced vegetables.
Málaga, 4. FUENGIROLA
Open from 13.00 to 24.00h. 951 311 630 / 627 635 890 www.restaurantetipitapa.com
Grilled Meat Specialists
Credit: ADANA
Credit: SVT
Raffle ticket 1st prize to Lizzie donated by Sunborn Hotel Yacht, Gibraltar.
Turkey race 2024
BENALMADENA is gearing up for its annual turkey trot - literally! The Carrera del Pavo 2024 promises a day of feathers, fitness, and fun. Whether you’re running, walking, or strutting like a turkey, join in the fun on December 14.
This isn’t your average fun run - it’s a community celebration. Benalmadena’s Turkey Race 2024 aims to make running fun for all. From school groups to families, and even those with disabilities, there’s room for everyone at the starting line. Fancy a stroll instead of a sprint? That’s fine too.
This event is about joining in, not pace.
And the grand prize? A turkey for the local champ. Age isn’t a barrier here; it’s a bragging right. With 22 categories ranging from Prebenjamines (born in 2017 and later) to Superveteranos C (1955 and earlier), there’s a spot for every runner. Special categories for participants with intellectual and motor disabilities ensure the event is as inclusive as it is exciting.
Online registration closes on December 14 at 7pm, and spots are limited to just 2,000 partici-
pants. Once you’ve signed up, collect your race bib at Arroyo de la Miel’s sports centre by 10pm on December 14. Take your proof of registration. No bib, no run - so don’t wing it. Head to deportes .benalmadena.es now. Remember, registering means you accept the rules - and maybe a photo or two of you puffing across the finish line will make it onto social media.
Don’t be a turkey all your life - sign up before it’s too late.
Benalmadena is gearing up for its annual turkey trot!
Rock ’n’ Roots
Adam Woodward
FINNISH Rock ’n’ Roots star Jo’ Buddy is coming to the Costa del Sol for a mini tour from Friday, December 13, until Sunday, December 15.
The Blues, Jumping Jive sound of Jo’ Buddy is already well known on the Helsinki and London circuits, and this year he has decided to bring the Jive to Torremolinos, Fuengirola, and Malaga for a pre-Christmas set of foot-tapping Rock ’n’ Roll.
and spiritual. It’s a rich and spicy Rattle ’n’ Roll Gumbo including; Ragtime, Swing, New Orleans Rhythm & Blues, Swamp Boogie, Down Home Blues, Boogie Woogie, Jump Blues, Cajun, Zydeco, Gospel, Soul, Hillbilly, Western Swing, Rock’N’Roll, Rockabilly, Ska, Rock Steady, Surf & Garage Rock, Latin Grooves, and even echoes of Western African Rhythms and even Spanish Flamenco.
Singer, guitarist, songwriter, troubadour, bandleader, melting pot Jo’ Buddy is a full package. He has a particularly individual and personal style. His laidback sounds spread the joy of life, being simultaneously raw, timeless, earthy,
Jo’ Buddy plays Simply Scandinavian, Avenida de los Boliches, Friday, December 13; Bon Bon Jazz Bar Calle Reding Malaga, Saturday, December 14; and Twister Cervecería Calle Molino de Manoja, Torremolinos, Sunday, December 15.
Credit: Ram-Bam records
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Benalmadena, Area de Deportes
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A Nordic-Spanish Culinary Gem in Fuengirola
TUCKED away just off the paseo in Fuengirola, Puerta Verde is a family-run restaurant offering a dining experience unlike any other. Specialising in Nordic-inspired dishes infused with a Spanish touch, this charming eatery takes diners on a delightful journey of flavours that lingers in your memory long after your meal. The menu is a testament to culinary creativity and passion. With a Menu del Día that includes three courses for €22.90 or four courses for €29.90, Puerta Verde provides incredible value without compromising on quality. Each dish is crafted with care, presenting an exquisite blend of bold, fresh ingredients that speak to the restaurant’s unique fusion of Nordic and Spanish traditions. The restaurant’s small capacity crea-
tes an intimate atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. However, it’s highly recommended to book in advance to avoid missing out on this hidden gem.
Aino, who leads the front-of-house service, ensures every guest feels warmly welcomed and well cared for, adding a personal touch to the exceptional service. Her attentive approach perfectly complements the culinary brilliance coming from the kitchen.
The glowing reviews from patrons speak volumes about the experience Puerta Verde delivers. Whether you’re a foodie seeking new flavours or someone looking for a memorable dining outing, Puerta Verde promises not to disappoint.
For a unique culinary adventure, Puerta Verde should be at the top of your list in Fuengirola.
Calle Miguel de Cervantes 17, Fuengirola 687 505 675
Lux Mundi carol service
SATURDAY, December 14, Lux Mundi, Fuengirola, has plans to visit the Ecumenical Christmas Carol Service at the Parish Church Carman de Santa Fe in Los Boliches.
The traditional carol service will have a multicultural feel with friends from
Spain, the United Kingdom, Finland, Sweden, and Norway, who will all sing two carols in their native languages. This festive and most enjoyable occasion will be just the thing to get everyone in the spirit of peace and good will. The service will begin at 5.30pm on Saturday, December 14.
Lux Mundi Ecumenical can be found
‘Father Christmas, The Musical’
Marc
all the way to Mijas for a festive family treat peeps.
Get ready for a sleigh-load of Christmas cheer and fun for the whole family as ‘Father Christmas, The Christmas Musical’ (Papá Noel: El Musical de Navidad) jingles into town this festive season. Perfect for getting into the holiday spirit in Spanish, this magical
at Calle Nueva No. 3, Fuengirola. The opening hours are from Monday to Friday 10am to 1pm. To make an appointment or find out more about the Lux Mundi Centre, call 952 474 840 or email luxmundif@gmail.com
The Lex Mundi Boutique will be open in the Lux Mundi Centre only on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday during December from 10am to 1pm. They invite
musical is hitting the stage at Teatro Manuel España in Las Lagunas, Mijas.
Tickets are a steal at just €7.50 and can be snapped up via the QR code on the poster or from the box office two hours before showtime.
Mark your calendars for Sunday, December 8, at 12pm - don’t miss this cracker of a show! Head over to papa noelelmusical.com for tickets.
you to come and have fun browsing through the autumn and winter clothes collection, where there are still bargains to be snapped up, including shoes, jewellery and also kitchen and household items. They are accepting donations of household goods and items of clothing and would appreciate it if you could bring them in bags that you do not need, during the normal opening hours
Menendez- Roche JINGLE
Artsenal Inoxis showcase
THE Musical Showcase at Artsenal Inoxis in Alhaurin el Grande was a grand and resounding success, where the audience was treated to a broad range of stellar performances from upcoming local talent.
Event organiser and host Leon Patras dazzled with his usual charm, banter, and highly engaging performance of pop and rock covers, followed by Rebecca Lane, who held the audience captivated with her jazzy and soulful renditions of well-known
songs from the classic ‘Fever’ to the more modern ‘Toxic’ and ‘No Rules’.
‘Azarielle’ then took to the stage to bring a new twist to some old classics from Aerosmith and Bon Jovi, followed by some Alicia Keys songs and piano pieces. Next up, seasoned singer Charlton Greene showcased his versatile repertoire with covers ranging from the crooners like ‘That’s Life’ to the more up-to-date hits like ‘Rock DJ’.
The entire evening was
Living nativity scene
CASARES has a full programme of events this December, including a Santa Claus village, a Christmas decorations competition, and a living nativity scene.
The Living Nativity Scene of Casares comes to life one year more, from Friday, December 13, to Saturday, De-
a testament to the amount and scale of shining talent in the province of Malaga and how not every entertainer plays the same old thing.
As well, there were stunning performances from the consummate professional, the angelic voice of Michelle Greene, who was joined on stage by her two equally talented children, Chelsea and Charlton.
The showcase will be back in the new year to usher in a new season of performing talent.
cember 14. For two days, the municipality becomes the perfect theatrical nativity to welcome Christmas. At 6pm on the Friday in the Plaza de Peñon, there will be an artisanal market and a walking Christmas choir singing carols to the Plaza de España. At 6.15pm begins the chocolatada, drinking chocolate celebration, along with
Cala Lions success
Adam Woodward
THE Drang drum band provided the opening rhythms of the Very Merry Christmas Fair in the Butibamba park in La Cala de Mijas on Sunday, December 1.
Lots of craft stalls were set up ready for visitors, along with Lions stalls offering an early celebration of the festive season. The annual event was compered by John Sharples, who introduced the Lions President, Karen Blair, and town hall councillor for the Foreigner’s Department, Mario Bravo, to formally
open the event.
The Lions also thanked Katja and Laura from the town hall for their help in providing the stage and the tables and chairs. Singer Laura Ellen opened the entertainment with a selection of Christmas tunes and was followed by the Sur pipes and drum and Scottish dancers.
Then on stage was the very energetic and nimble Rhythmic Children’s Gymnastic School, who demonstrated their amazing twists and turns into unbelievable moves. Sounds
tasting sessions of traditional Christmas sweets.
On the Saturday, at 6.30pm in the Plaza de España, the Christmas Choir will continue, as will the Christmas market. The living nativity begins at 5pm this time, including interactive workshops for the young ones. At 6.30pm in the Paseo de la Carrera, the municipal school of dance will pre-
changed to the authentic Spanish sounds and movement of the Grupo Flamenco con Victor Rojas.
The entertainment came to its end with Maxi, the mini Elvis, who, despite having a plaster cast on his broken leg, gave the audience a reason to get up and dance.
The Lions three charity shops can be found in Calle Torremolinos in La Cala de Mijas and is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 2pm. For further information and details of future events, visit the Lions website at lacalalions.org
sent their show ‘Es Tiempo de Villancicos, Roscos y Pestiños’, which will then give way to a performance by the theatre school.
At 8pm there will be a raffle with local produce as the prizes, followed by live and local music performances.
The activities begin on Friday afternoon and will last throughout Saturday along with the Christmas market.
B A
usiness 1st wards 2024
ON November 30, Business 1st held its annual award ceremony at The Harbour Bar and Restaurant in Marbella’s port. Business 1st, founded by Sam Campbell, prides itself on being Costa del Sol’s leading business networking organisation, “where relationships and members take priority.” The group aims to foster a high-quality, trusted network of the coast’s top business professionals and is set to celebrate its 16th anniversary on January 9.
Guests were greeted with a cosy atmosphere, where a delicious set menu was offered. The evening was accompanied by live music from local artist Aida Garner, who entertained guests with a combi -
nation of timeless classics and a selection of Spanish songs. After the meal, the awards ceremony began, with host Sam Campbell giving special thanks to Michel and Steven Euesden for their attendance.
Four awards were up for grabs, with one member of each of the three Business 1st groups - based in La Cala de Mijas, Marbella and Fuengirola - nominated to win, all voted on by their fellow members.
The results were:
Businessman of the Year: Armando Benito Spital from Costa Gestión, Péter Patkó from Positive Design, and Daniele Delicati from Daniele Delicati Physiotherapy. Businesswoman of the Year: Sa -
rah Monaghan from Costa Health, Lucia Melgarejo from Black Tower Financial Management, and Karen Harding from Abby Care. Best Presentation: Sarah Monaghan, Shirley Graham from G&T Estates, and Christine Tautari from Blue Gecko Estates.
Outstanding Contribution: Melis sa Nicol from Just Marbella Golf, Lara Clara Goodacre, author of children’s books, and Lynn McCa be from Euro Weekly News
The event was a wonderful ce lebration of the dedication and achievements within the Business 1st group and a great opportunity for members to connect, socialise, and strengthen their connection to the local business community.
Discover Blue Label Restaurant:
A New Culinary Experience in Mijas
EXCITING news for food lovers! A fresh dining experience awaits you at Blue Label Restaurant, formerly known as Vista Lago, situated in the charming surroundings of Mijas. Recently taken over by Ivan and his talented team from The Green Label, the restaurant promises exceptional cuisine, warm hospitality, and unforgettable moments.
This winter, Blue Label is serving up incredible offers to welcome its patrons. Indulge in a sumptuous Chateaubriand for two, perfectly complemented by sautéed potatoes, grilled vegetables, and a bottle of fine wine. Reservations are essential to enjoy this special offer of €70.00 per couple !
For those seeking variety and value, the restaurant offers an exceptional Menu del Día at just €20.00 for three
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courses, featuring great choices to suit every palate. Whether you’re visiting for lunch, dinner, or a special occasion, Blue Label ensures a memorable dining experience. Available Mon - Fri 12.00pm - 4.00pm.
Adding to the charm, the restaurant features a heated pool, available for use by patrons - a unique perk that transforms your visit into a relaxing getaway.
Conveniently located at Calle Tranco 4, Hacienda El Sueño, Mijas, Blue Label is a must-visit destination this season. For reservations, call 951 152 524. Experience the passion and expertise of Ivan and his team and make Blue Label your next go-to spot for exceptional dining and delightful moments in Mijas.
COSTA FOOD TOURS
NOTHING defines Spain as much as its traditional history with food; and more likely than anything is the association with authentic Christmas dishes. Christmas in Spain is celebrated, above all else, at the table. Families pack into overflowing dining rooms for holiday meals that last longer than most American football games. We have plenty of opportunities to feast throughout the holidays, starting with All Saint’s Day on November 1 and stretching until the Epiphany on January 6. In between, there are various Saint’s Days, Constitution Day, Christmas, and New Year’s Day but traditional Spanish Christmas recipes that have been passed down through the generations are really the main event on Christmas Eve. There are many but here´s our top five just for you to savour:
Boiled Shrimp - no Spanish Christmas table is complete without shrimp. While these little sea creatures go by many names in Spain, some of the most popular varieties are langostinos (prawns or jumbo shrimp) and gambas (deepwater rose shrimp). During the holidays, shrimp are
Classic Spanish Christmas Dishes
served in many different ways. They are mixed into salads, chopped into savoury tartlets, tucked into mini-sandwiches, and stacked whole onto plates under a sprinkle of salt.
Cured Ham Croquettes -
Cured Iberian ham is a must at Spanish Christmas dinners. More of this delectable cured ham is sold in December than in every other month of the year! While the good stuff is served paper-thin, the less knightly hams often make their way into croquettes; cured Serrano ham and béchamel cream sauce on the inside, olive oil fried crust on the outside. Spanish croquettes are a welcome vice.
Ensaladilla Rusa - many family Christmas spreads include this as part of the tapas course. This cold potato and mayonnaise-based salad can be time-consuming to make from scratch, but well worth it. It’s delicious and one of those dishes people expect to see over the holidays!
Slow Roast Spanish Lamb – whilst not a favourite year round, at Christmas time neighbourhood butcher shops are bustling as families hustle to order. Slow-roasted Spanish lamb is an absolute classic during the festive season and provides a rare treat away from beef, pork or chicken.
Polvorones - these crumbly, shortbread-like almond cookies are made with almonds and lard (manteca). They’re part of the mantecado family of lard-based cookies. Eating these cookies and other pork products was historically associated with demonstrating one’s Catholic faith.
So there’s a little insight into Spanish Christmas cuisine.
Charity golf
A TEXAS scramble start on Sunday, December 8, for a charity golf tournament at Paraíso Golf Club.
In aid of AFESOL, the mental health charity, the tournament aims to raise awareness about mental health issues as well as raise some cash for the charity.
The tournament is taking place on Sunday, December 8, from 10am at El Paraíso Golf Club in Estepona, and those interested in participating in the charity event should confirm their attendance by emailing sales@elparaisogolf.com. The price is €130 per golfer and includes the green fee, buggy, lunch, and a generous charitable donation to AFESOL, a gift charity raffle with great prizes.
The mid-holiday weekend event promises to be a fun experience that will serve
to provide important help to families and people suffering from mental illness.
On the day, the event will count on the attendance of María Aguilar, the president of AFESOL, Cristian González; the manager of Marvellous Golf & Experience, Beatriz Soler; and the commercial director of El Paraíso Golf Club Estepona, Robert Hall.
This is the first time the golf competition has been held, and weather reports promise perfect conditions all weekend.
In 2024, AFESOL is celebrating its 25th year helping sufferers of mental health disorders and their families. Designed in 1973 by Gary Player, El Paraíso is one of the most established courses on the Costa del Sol.
hristmas magic in Mijas
GET ready for a Christmas cracker: The UP workshops of Mijas are pulling out all the stops this holiday season with a heartwarming musical tale, La Magia de la Navidad (The Magic of Christmas). The enchanting show is set to dazzle on December 11 at 5.30pm at the Teatro Manuel España in Las Lagunas - and the best part? Entry is free.
This year’s production promises to be bigger, bolder, and brimming with holiday cheer, thanks to an
all-hands-on-deck effort from teachers, students, and some surprising new additions.
Breaking away from tradition, this year’s show ropes in newcomers like the IT and Robotics workshop. It’s a high-tech twist to the usual Christmas repertoire. The English workshop is also stepping into the spotlight, offering witty dialogues sprinkled throughout the tale.
The show will still feature the beloved classics Mijas audiences adore, including snippets of theatre,
flamenco guitar, sevillanas dancing, ballroom dancing, tai chi, and the sweet sounds of piano.
But make no mistakethis isn’t just your typical Christmas showcase. It’s a chance for the community to come together and soak up the magic.
Admission is free and open to all - but get there early to snag a seat. Everyone is invited to join in.
Mark your calendars, Mijas - this is one holiday treat you won’t want to miss. Ho ho ho.
Marc Menendez- Roche
Credit: Shutterstock, Elenadesign
Credit: Euro Weekly News.
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New Year at Bing Asian Fusion
Adam Woodward
BING ASIAN FUSION restaurant and bar in the heart of Fuengirola and overlooking the sea is about to celebrate 10 years of success and popularity serving up the very best in Thai and Chinese cuisine all with love for culinary pas
sion and service.
Bing, a perennial favourite of locals from Fuengirola, as much as with holidaymakers, consistently makes this seaside eatery a must on any restaurant list and inspiring satisfied customers to leave shining comments on TripAdvisor, most of which highlight the excellent cuisine and great prices. Most notably, diners call attention to the authenticity and honesty of the food alongside the excellent quality and friendly service.
Strategically located just outside Fuengirola harbour, the restaurant is about to usher in a
new year in which they will be celebrating their 10th anniversary attending to the demanding tastes of the Fuengirola public while leaving satisfied customers who will always make a point of returning again and again.
From their lunch and dinner set menus for both two or four people including such delights as chicken and red curry sauce with coconut milk, or sizzling prawns, or crispy duck with sweet chilli sauce, and as well chicken in cashew sauce.
Lighter bites include Thai skewers, grilled dumplings, or wrapped shrimps, all freshly prepared to the highest of quality standards. One of my personal favourites from the fusion menu is the Thai Panang curry, or the Thai green beef curry. The presentation is exquisite and full of a freshness not always found at other Asian restaurants.
On the sushi menu, freshly prepared and
NEW YEAR´S EVE 31 DEC.
irresistible Sashimis, Makis and Nigiris, not to mention the fusion special roll specials for one, or to share.
With New Year rapidly approaching, bookings are selling out fast. For a mere €55 per diner, cava is included with 12 grapes (a special tradition at New Year in Spain), plus a lucky bag. Starters on the big night will include sirloin beef sate, or fried beef Wanton, mixed seafood in lettuce, or even fried prawns, followed by second course of exquisite duck pancake.
Main courses include lamb sirloin with Singapore sauce , or fried sea bass with sweet tomato sauce, or sirloin beef with special noodles, as well as king prawns with red curry sauce.
Bing Asian Fusion can be found on the Paseo Marítimo Rey de España just opposite Fuengirola harbour. Call them to make a booking on 952 470 218.
Wishes, workshops, and wonder
Marc Menendez-Roche
WISHES, workshops, and wonder light up Benalmadena on December 7.
Christmas cheer is taking over Benalmádena on Saturday, December 7, with a jam-packed day of family fun and festive magic for everyone.
Head to Plaza de Andalucía in Benalmadena Pueblo to visit the enchanting Casa de los Deseos. Meet Santa Claus, enjoy kids’ workshops, and dive into the playful musical Las Aventuras de Pepe y Pepa. Drop by from 12 to 2pm or 5 to 8pm.
Then, wrap up the evening with the glow of the Candela Navideña at Plaza de la Iglesia, Arroyo de la Miel. Don’t miss Andrés Cansino and Rocío Bazán at 8pm.
Credit: Shutterstock, chrisdorney
Benahavis by night
Adam Woodward
BENAHAVIS, a white village in the Andalucian region of Malaga, is surrounded by the Sierra de las Nieves and Ronda mountains, offering spectacular views with luxury urbanisations carefully integrated into its picturesque landscape. The town is known for its culinary richness, offering a variety of options for travellers, including traditional mountain delicacies, meats, seafood dishes, and international cuisine.
Restaurants and taverns in Benahavis town centre are highly valued on internet review sites. Some of the most recognised establishments include Amanhavís, which specialises in market cuisine and fresh seasonal products; ‘Friends’ with a wood-fired grill is where all the best Spanish meats are cooked; as well as the notable Bodegón Gallery, a traditional Mediterranean food eatery. Rufino
Restaurant, a classic since 1985, has an extensive menu specialising in meat and fish, while Sabor Restaurant is an ideal destination for popular tapas with exceptional wines.
Indian Spice Benahavis presents a wide range of succulent and traditional Indian dishes, as well as extremely healthy options, organic spices, and gluten-free menus with many vegetarian and vegan options.
La Escalera de Balthazar offers traditional cuisine from the area seasoned with the international experience of its chef, Cyrille Troesch, while La Taberna Fantástica is a Mediterranean, farm-to-fork restaurant within a beautiful manor house decorated by designer Javier Larrainzar.
As well, the Benahavis Hospitality School has a restaurant that is open from Tuesday to Friday for lunch
Spikes Bar & Bobby RestaurantJones
and offers a €32 tasting menu, with a cold appetiser, hot appetiser, starter, main course, and dessert (water and coffee included) with €14 pairing options, wines à la carte, or by the glass.
But the trip off the beaten coastal track doesn’t stop at just Benahavis town, as there are 11 nearby towns that also make for a culinary treat, including Benalmadena, Casares, Estepona, Fuengirola, Istan, Manilva, Marbella, Mijas, Ojen, and Torremolinos, which all have particularities that, together, make the Western Costa del Sol a unique, magical, and special place, characterised by the beauty of its landscapes, its beaches, and an exceptional climate during 365 days a year.
Well worth a stop-off, Benahavis has the finest culinary grouping of eateries of anywhere on the inland areas of Costa del Sol.
Spanish popular instrument used at Christmas: zambomba
Snow, songs, and Santa
WRITE your letter to Santa on December 8, at the Plaza de Andalucia from 12-2pm and 5-8pm. Enjoy a ‘snowfall’, and take part in balloon twisting and games. Don’t miss the musical En busca de la Navidad! (Searching for Christmas.)
At 4.30pm, the 31st Certamen de Pastorales de Benalmadena lights up Plaza de las 3 Culturas again with
Malaga’s finest pastoral groups.
Later, head to Plaza Adolfo Suárez at 6.30pm for a festive Zambomba led by Rubén Portillo and friends, complete with a free Christmas snack.
For hands-on fun, check out the Talleres Lúdicos de Navidad at Plaza de Austria from 5-8pm.