Our Team’s Recommendations
Tarifa, known as the “European wind capital,” is a top destination not just for its incredible kite surfing spots but also for its diverse and delightful cuisine. Its strategic location, just 14 km from Africa, has infused its culinary scene with influences from various cultures including North Africans, Moors, Christians, Jews, and Romans.
After an exhilarating kite surfing session, you’ll definitely need to refuel. Especially if you’re just starting your kitesurfing course! Fortunately, Tarifa has a wide array of dining options to suit every taste and dietary need.
Here are our top picks:
1. Best Vegetarian/Vegan Restaurants in Tarifa
Chilimosa
Nestled in the heart of Tarifa, Chilimosa is a vibrant haven for vegetarians and vegans alike. This cozy eatery is renowned for its homemade falafel, creamy hummus, and tantalizing curry dishes, each crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The menu also features a variety of vegan desserts that are not to be missed.
After a long day of kite surfing, if you’re too tired to dine out, Chilimosa offers take-away and delivery services, ensuring you can enjoy their delicious offerings in the comfort of your own accommodation.
A typical meal at Chilimosa is reasonably priced, with main dishes ranging from €8 to €12, making it an affordable option for a wholesome, plant-based meal. The welcoming atmosphere, coupled with friendly and attentive staff, makes Chilimosa a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy delicious vegetarian and vegan cuisine in Tarifa.
Mic Moc
Not a strictly vegetarian restaurant, in Mic Moc you can find plenty of options to satisfy all tastes.
Prices for main dishes range from €10 to €20, making it an affordable yet high-quality choice for diners. Amazing pad Thai, or black rice.
From their Instagram @micmoctarifa
2. Best Meat Restaurants in Tarifa
Sometimes all you need to gain your energy back is a good dose of proteins! Especially after spending all the day on the beach.
Here are some of the best meat restaurants in Tarifa that you should definitely check out:
PachaMama
Located conveniently on the way back from Valdevaqueros or Los Lances beaches, PachaMama is perfect for a post-kitesurfing meal. Their hamburgers are a standout, and the garden setting makes it a great spot to relax. Be sure to book in advance as it can get quite busy.
El Rancho
Just a few minutes from the city center towards the Sanctuary of Luz, El Rancho is a haven for meat lovers. They offer a variety of grilled, stewed, and matured meats sourced from local breeders. Their Lomo de Vaca Extra and chuletón are highly recommended. The average price of a meal at El Rancho typically ranges from €30 to €40 per person.
Vaca Loca
Situated in the heart of the old town, Vaca Loca is known for its Argentinean-style grilled meats. The Secreto Iberico is a must-try. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it’s a popular spot, so you might have to wait for a table, but it’s worth it. The average price of a meal at Vaca Loca in Tarifa ranges from €15 to €30 per person.
3. Best Tapas In Tarifa
Bar el Frances
Bar El Frances, a cornerstone of Tarifa’s culinary scene, is an ideal spot to refuel after a day of kitesurfing. From the long queue outside, both at lunch and dinner time, you can easily guess how worth the hype this place is.
Located in the historic center, this bustling tapas bar is renowned for its mouth-watering patatas bravas and an array of flavorful tapas. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among both locals and visitors. Due to its popularity, there’s often a queue, so arriving early is recommended. After a long kite surfing session, treat yourself to the delicious offerings at Bar El Frances and enjoy the lively Tarifeño ambiance.
Excellent tapas style and flavors that will explode in your mouth. Not possible to book a table, so we recommend going earlier than normal dinner time (Spanish time).
An average meal at Bar El Frances typically costs between €15 and €25 per person, depending on the selection of tapas and drinks.
El Lola
A must-go for the most typical tapas you can find. Fantastic flamenco vibes and friendly staff. We recommend you going well in advance to get a table. An average meal costs between 15€ to 30€.
4. Best Breakfast and Brunch in Tarifa
If you sipped on one too many cocktails last night, or you want to fuel up before your kitesurfing day, there are high chances you could use a good brunch or breakfast. Here are our favorites:
Café Azul
Italian owners and excellent coffee that can cure everything. Amazing selection of eggs to recharge your batteries or fruit bowls as healthier options. Its interiors are also very carefully selected, reminding Moroccan influences. They close at 3 pm, so keep it in mind when choosing it for brunch/lunch.
El Taller 2.0
A gem when it comes to food and interior design. A French touch for a meal that tastes like home. We love how much attention the owners put into choosing each and every art piece for the Cafe, that same attention they have when dealing with clients. We recommend you try their Chachouka, you won’t regret it!
Did you like our recommendations? Let us know in the comments if you think we should add more! Stay tuned for our guide to best Bars!
See you in the water!