Marbella’s Ricardo Soriano District: A Foodie’s Paradise
The small area of SORI (South of Ricardo Soriano) in Marbella, Spain, is a gastronomic delight. Despite its size, it boasts over half of Marbella’s top eateries. From award-winning sandwiches at a park pop-up to the finest Japanese cuisine on the coast, SORI is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Emerging as a Culinary Hub
Located south of the bustling Avenida Ricardo Soriano and bounded by the Alameda and Calle Gregorio Maranon, SORI is fast becoming a culinary hotspot. Restaurateurs are increasingly choosing this area over the old town to cater to the year-round local trade. Emma Tremlett, who recently opened a shop, Alma Essentials, in the area, describes it as “up and coming” and “growing really fast.”
El Albero: A Charming Spot
El Albero, with its lovely terrace, is one of the many attractions in SORI. The area is gaining a personality and is sometimes referred to as ‘Downtown’ or ‘Little Soho’. With the continual growth of full-time residents, new restaurants and shops are opening almost every month. Among them, Ta-kumi, Kava, and Backi have earned Michelin recommendations.
Gaspar: The Dining Secret of SORI
Gaspar, a family-run Spanish restaurant, has been serving soul-cooking for 25 years. It is the true godmother of the SORI area. The restaurant offers a daily menu based on what the team feels like cooking, making it a unique dining experience in Marbella.
Sauvage: The New Hotspot
Sauvage, a stylish and attractive restaurant, has been open for nine months. It offers a fusion of dishes with an Asiatic flavor, created by young, well-traveled chefs, Daniel Ortega and Nacho Espana.
El Albero: Traditional Spanish Fare
For those craving traditional Spanish fare, El Albero is the place to go. Run by Luis and his wife Marta, the restaurant offers top-quality traditional Spanish classics.
Timonel: The New Kid on the Block
Timonel, a newly opened restaurant, offers an interesting, minimal menu in an elegant decor. It is open all day, making it a convenient dining option in SORI.
Gourmet Burger Room: For Burger Lovers
The Gourmet Burger Room, run by a Frenchman Franck, offers a wide variety of burgers, including vegetarian and vegan options.
Takumi: The Best Japanese Food in Spain
Takumi, a minimalist restaurant, offers the best traditional Japanese food in Spain. It is a favorite of footballer Ronaldo when he is in town. Ricardo Soriano District
Kava: Remarkable Things Happening
Kava, run by local Marbella man Fernando Alcala, is another restaurant to look out for. Alcala left a high-flying job as a lawyer in Switzerland to teach himself cooking and open this stylish joint.
Other Noteworthy Places
Other places worth visiting in SORI include the Parque de la Milla pop-up in Parque de la Constitucion, De Juan, a stylish place on Calle Antonio Belon, and the Argentinian bakery Maleva.
