El Pimpi — Wine bar in Málaga

Ok, a little touristy — but always busy and lively. The quality of the products is solid though, which makes this a great spot to try some local wines. You can have a good drink here and then head somewhere else for dinner.

Founded in 1971, El Pimpi is one of the most storied bodegas in Málaga. Housed in an 18th-century mansion overlooking the Roman theatre, this is no ordinary tapas bar. The many wooden wine barrels are signed by celebrities including Picasso's daughter, Tony Blair, former king Juan Carlos, tennis player Rafael Nadal and Antonio Banderas — who is also a shareholder. The name refers to the foreign sailors who used to dock in the port of Málaga.

Wander through the atmospheric rooms full of celebrity photos, sample local wines in the courtyard and enjoy the terrace with views of the illuminated Teatro Romano and the Alcazaba fortress. The restaurant's own kitchen garden, Huerta de El Paraíso in the Valle del Guadalhorce, supplies fresh fruit and vegetables daily — zero-kilometre, Andalusian style.

The wine list focuses on DO Málaga and Sierras de Málaga wines from local producers such as Bodegas Málaga Virgen, Bodega Doña Felisa and Jorge Ordóñez. Classic tapas: salmorejo, Iberico ham, fried fish. The local Vino Dulce is a must.