Soul of Andalucia at Tablao Flamenco Marbella
AS Marbella begins to bask in the warming May sun and Marbella’s biggest celebration of the year, San Bernabé, Tablao Flamenco Marbella beckons with its passion and authentic Andalucian spirit.
Perfectly placed in Plaza del Santo Cristo with a gorgeously emblematic terrace, surrounded by emblematic architecture, perfect for a shaded dinner with the flavours of the Malaga region.
Sixty years old this year, it is Marbella’s oldest and most cherished flamenco haven. Unlike typical shows across Spain, Tablao Flamenco Marbella delivers a fully immersive, heart-stirring experience where passion, rhythm, and emotion envelop you. With no stage separating performers and audience, you’re drawn into the swirling fabrics, soulful melodies, and fiery dances
in an intimate, one-of-a-kind setting with performances that cover four hours each evening. The venue has recently unveiled a spectacular new show, featuring fresh choreography, dazzling costumes, and bold make-up, which promise an unforgettable experience. Daily performances run at 6pm, 7.30pm, 9pm, and 10.15pm and cater to all timetables, while the terrace bar serves home-made paellas, sangria, and a new rice dish menu paired with Spain’s finest wines.
Whether you live on the Costa del Sol or are just visiting, Tablao Flamenco Marbella offers an authentic taste of Andalucia’s soul. Book now on 681 069 705 or visit tablaoflamencomarbella.com/en to reserve your spot in this historical and cultural gem. Tablao Flamenco Marbella can be found in Plaza del Santo Cristo, Marbella.
Three of a Kind at Sea Grill
MARBELLA’s top-ranking beachfront dining destination, Sea Grill at Puente Romano, is set to host the sensational roaming trio Three of a Kind.
Coming together from the UK, Italy, and Spain, the band is performing daily from 1pm, bringing their infectious energy and acoustic vibe to raise the lunchtime experience at this iconic Costa del Sol venue.
Known for performing at the world’s most exclusive locations, Three of a Kind combines rich vocal harmonies, captivating rhythms, and a repertoire of timeless favourites. Their unique style will transform every gathering into an unforgettable event and leave guests buzzing for months.
Whether enjoying Sea Grill’s fine Mediterranean cuisine or taking in the stunning sea views, the trio’s live music is going to create the perfect ambiance for an extraordinary afternoon.
Sea Grill can be found inside the luxurious Puente Romano Beach Resort, famed for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere.
Join us daily to experience the magic of Three of a Kind, where exceptional food, breathtaking views, and joyful live music come together for a truly memorable lunch out.
Bulevar Principe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, 29602 Marbella · 682 112 233
Three of a Kind livening up any gathering.
Hooked on Americana
HOOK, the American-style diner and sports bar, has brought its flair to Fuengirola, delivering mouth-watering US-inspired cuisine with a twist.
Opened after a buzz-worthy VIP tasting in December, the buzzing seafront hotspot was packed even at midday on a Monday, drawing both sports stars and locals. Euro Weekly News visited to savour its celebrated chicken wings and lively feel.
Imported from Finland, Hook’s first non-Scandinavian outpost shines with its crispy fried wings, crafted from hand-reared Finnish chickens and coupled with a selection of home-made sauces, from tangy Buffalo to (only for the daring) Suicide.
The chargrilled burgers, made with premium ingredients, nail the classics, while veggie, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options guarantee something deli-
cious for everyone.
Hook meatballs, chicken dishes, kid-friendly burgers, and indulgent desserts round off a menu perfect for family gatherings, or sports nights with friends.
Beyond food, Hook excels as an event venue, with adaptable VIP spaces for celebrations, meetings, or workshops, equipped for any occasion. The well-stocked bar offers wines, draught beers, cocktails, and soft drinks, complementing onscreen sports and a fun and informal vibe.
The friendly, welcoming staff round off the experience, with the venue open Monday to Thursday 3pm to 10pm, Friday and Saturday 1pm to midnight, and Sunday 1pm to 10pm, Hook is a must-visit, not least after a day of frolicking on the beach. Book on 646 256 632 or restau rantehook.es. It can be found on Fuen girola’s Paseo Marítimo 106.
Broadway meets West End
GET ready for a weekend full of stage magic as the Salón Varietés Theatre in Fuengirola presents A Night at the Musicals from Friday, May 16 to Sunday, May 18.
This exciting musical revue promises a dazzling blend of Broadway brilliance and West End wonder. It is devised, directed and choreographed by Eva Lloyd and features well-loved songs from some of the world’s most popular musicals.
The show will run for three nights, starting at 7.30pm on Friday and Saturday and at 7pm on Sunday. Theatre lovers on the Costa del Sol will have the chance to enjoy high-quality live entertainment in English, right in the heart of Fuengirola.
The Salón Varietés Theatre is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong local support. It is also fully accessible for wheelchair users, although these tickets must be purchased directly from the box office.
Tickets can be bought online: www.
salonvarietestheatre.com or in person at the box office, open from 11am to 2.30pm Monday to Friday and one hour before each performance. Guests are reminded not to buy tickets from unofficial sources.
Children under five are not permitted inside the auditorium; all children must have their own seats and be accompanied by an adult.
For a fun and musical evening out, this is one event not to miss.
The Salón Varietés Theatre.
Hook restaurant, food and wonderful staff.
UK comedy talent Cudeca’s Walkathon
GET ready for two nights of laughter as stand-up comedy returns to the Costa del Sol. This May, top comedians from the UK are heading to Estepona and Mijas for back-to-back shows that promise sharp wit, quick laughs and great fun.
The first night takes place on Tuesday, May 20, at The Cazbah Live Lounge in Las Lagunas de Mijas. Doors open at 7.30pm, and the show starts at 8.30pm. The second show follows on Wednesday, May 21, at Louie Louie in Estepona.
Expect a lively crowd, great atmosphere and plenty of good humour.
The line-up includes Essex comic Tasha Cluskey, known for her bold style and relatable stories. Kenny Sinclair brings his fast-paced routines and clever take on life as a middle-aged dad. Mike Capozzola, a dry and witty New Yorker
now based in London, adds an international flavour to the night. Nik Coppin, a seasoned MC with over 20 years of global comedy experience, hosts the shows.
Whether you are a long-time comedy fan or just fancy something di-
fferent, these events are a great way to enjoy live entertainment in English. Perfect for expats, visitors and locals alike.
For tickets and full event details, visit Eventbrite. Early booking is recommended to avoid missing out.
patients and those with advanced illnesses, while supporting their families.
BENALMADENA’S famed ‘Marcha por Cudeca-Walkathon’ will take place on Saturday, May 24, along the Paseo Marítimo near Sunset Beach Club, with the aim of raising funds for free, specialised palliative care for cancer patients and those with advanced illnesses, while supporting their families.
colour festival at 1pm, DJ sessions, Zumba, children’s games, performances by Bárbara Pereda, Quimirock, and Naima Danza Oriental, plus yoga, warm-ups, and a charity raffle. Great food features paella, hot dogs, and barbecue.
Presented by Mayor Juan Antonio Lara, the event was referred to as a ‘classic’ by Lara, who praised Cudeca’s role in the community.
Lara, the event was referred to as a ‘classic’ by Lara, who praised Cudeca’s role in the community.
care at the end of life’, the Walkathon
ting at 10am and a 5-km walk at 11am,
Under the motto ‘A charitable step to care at the end of life’, the Walkathon offers two routes: a 10-km walk starting at 10am and a 5-km walk at 11am, both beginning at Calle Torrevigía. The festive day includes live music, a Holi
Registration costs €15 for adults and €7 for children (up to 12), including a t-shirt, meal, Holi powders (for kids), water, fruit, and sunscreen. Sign-ups are available at entradium.com or on-site. A ‘Row 0’ donation option is offered for non-attendees. Supported by Benalmadena Council, Fundación ‘La Caixa’, and others, the event will be a joyful, family-friendly day of helping a wonderful cause.
Mike Capozzola, London-based American stand up comedian.
Credit: Mike Capozzola Comedian & On-Camera Guy, Facebook
Cudeca Walkathon to help give end-of-life care. Credit:
A Little Bite of Magic Only at La Pergola
ON Saturday May 10, Tibbi Aquila, the maestro of Mediterranean dining, unveiled another triumphant chapter in his success story with the launch of Cicchetti-Venetian-style sharing plate lunches at the beloved La Pergola - and what a celebration it was.
The day unfolded under clear blue skies, golden sunshine, and a gentle spring breeze. La Pergola’s fresh, elegant décor, soft colour palette, and open-air feel created a setting that didn’t just welcome you - it embraced you. A haven of comfort and class after a long week.
Staff, dressed in crisp white monogrammed shirts, offered a warm, discreet, polished, and personal service. Multilingual, knowledgeable, and genuinely kind, they reflected the restaurant’s soul, one rooted in hospitality.
The tabloid-style menu is a delightful touch, adding character and flair to the dining experience. With beautiful photos and enticing descriptions, it teases the senses and sets the scene for what’s to come.
And then, the cicchetti arrive - Venetian delights designed for sharing, passing around the table, and sparking conversations and laughter. More generous than tapas but lighter than main dishes, these plates invite indulgence without guilt. It’s dining at its most social, most satisfying.
Each dish is a work of art in texture, colour, and flavour - from smooth, decadent creations to lightly fried specialities and fresh garden bites. Baskets of warm bread, soups that whisper of tradition, and flavours that transport you straight to a Venetian canal-side kitchen.
The rhythm of the meal is unhurried - it’s a dance of plates and glasses, of sips and stories. And, of course, there’s the sweet ending. Desserts at La Pergola are little pieces of paradise - indulgent, exquisite, and just the right size to enjoy every last bite.
For three hungry diners - from aperitifs to desserts, with wine, coffee, liqueurs, and generous servings across all courses - the bill came to a very welcome €120. A reminder that at La Pergola, gourmet dining and affordable prices go hand in hand.
Once again, Tibbi Aquila has proven why his name is synonymous with innovation and excellence. With La Pergola’s Cicchetti experience, he’s not just serving food - he’s cultivating a community of diners who value flavour, connection, and joyful living.
Cicchetti is available every Saturday and Sunday at lunchtime or by appointment for private and corporate events during weekdays. Unforgettable dining deserves to fit your life and your celebrations.
63 Unique pieces
ART lovers on the Costa del Sol can enjoy a special Torremolinos exhibition featuring 63 unique works from local artists based in Nerja and the Axarquia. The show is organised by ANEDA, the Asociación Nerjeña de Arte, and is open to the public until June 13.
The exhibition is held at the Centro de Interpretación Turística on Calle Cuesta del Tajo 11. Entry is free, and the space is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 2pm. The collection includes
a wide range of formats, styles and techniques, showing the diversity and creativity of the local art scene.
ANEDA was founded in 2008 as a non-profit group to promote local artists and encourage a wider appreciation for the arts in the region.
The association includes around 40 members who live and work in Nerja and nearby towns. Since its beginning, ANEDA has held exhibitions across the province, including in Torrox,
Torre del Mar, Velez-Malaga, Frigiliana and even Granada.
In addition to collective shows, ANEDA also organises solo exhibitions and offers painting classes at its headquarters in Nerja. These classes are open to the general public and cover a variety of painting techniques.
Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, this free exhibition is an excellent opportunity to discover the artistic talent in the eastern Costa del Sol.
All-white party
COYA Club Marbella is set to host its signature summer event, La Noche Blanca, on Wednesday, May 21. Located in the heart of Puente Romano on Marbella’s famous Golden Mile, this all-white party marks the official start of the summer season on the Costa del Sol. Guests are invited to dress in their most glamorous white attire and enjoy an evening that begins with COYA’s acclaimed Peruvian cuisine. The menu features a fusion of traditional dishes with Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish influences, offering a unique dining experience in a setting known for its elegance and warmth.
As the night progresses, the atmosphere transforms. COYA Music
ring a vibrant mix of Latin beats and global rhythms to keep guests dancing until the early hours. The event runs from 9pm to 4am, transitioning smoothly from dinner to nightlife.
La Noche Blanca at COYA Club Marbella is
more than just a party; it celebrates culture, cuisine, and music. With its chic setting, attentive service, and electric energy, it is the place to welcome the summer in style. Early booking is recommended. For reservations, call +34 682 112 233.
Nerja artworks on show in Torremolinos.
Credit: Coya Club, Facebook
Credit: Asociación Cultural Nerjeña ANEDA, Facebook
CHEF Roque Martínez opened the El Jinete, a typical country bar/ restaurant for locals and passersby when it was a simple roadside eatery.
It was dark and small, but Roque transformed the place into one of the most popular gourmet experiences in the area. He began with the kitchen, with the menu. Plenty of presentation and high-quality cuisine. ‘This guy is loco’, the locals would say, but that just motivated him more. Shortly, the golfers arrived. Word of mouth was spreading.
Situated between some of the most famous golf clubs in Mijas: Calanova, La Cala Golf, Mijas Golf, and Santana Golf, word began to get around that this was the best restaurant in the area. At first, Roque was cooking for 15 or 16 diners per night. By the end of his first month, that number had grown to 80 a night, and with only one helper.
Roque is a chef of classic European cuisine who cut his teeth cooking meat at the legendary
An exceptional experience
Shakespeare in Fuengirola where they were supplied by an English butcher. He discovered that the butcher cut the meat in the same way as in Argentina, where he first
started his journey. Although, the majority of Argentinian grill chefs work meat slow, Roque is different, using the power of the flame to seal the juices of the meat in-
side with his secret method of adding just the right amount of salt and a chimichurri made with freshly picked herbs.
El Jinete
offers an exceptional Mediterranean dining experience at its rustic yet elegant restaurant. Overlooking the scenic La Cala Golf road, the terrace, shaded by vines and palms, seats 100 and exudes Andalucian charm, perfect for savouring balmy evenings, especially after a few rounds of golf.
side with his of salt and made terranean
Martínez, originally from Argentina, crafts a Mediterranean-inspired menu with a focus on succulent grilled meats, a reference of quality and his own personality.
Characteristic dishes include home-made duck and chicken liver pâté, the summer-perfect ‘El Jinete’ salad, and chateaubriand for two with tarragon sauce. Desserts like warm chocolate fondant with mint ice cream delight the palate.
The cosy indoor dining room accommodates 100, mixing traditional decor with breathtaking mountain views. Chef Roque
Pair your meal with a carefully selected house wine or from their extensive wine list. There’s a brand new events calendar on their website with artists performing jazz to Spanish vocals, piano, singer-songwriter, ballads to upbeat pop. Ideal for special occasions or a daily treat, El Jinete’s warm, professional service ensures a memorable visit with timeless dining in the Andalucian countryside.
Howlin’ Ramblers, rockin’ roots Howlin’ roots
LOUIE LOUIE in Estepona is about to be rocked again from its laid-back slumber with the arrival of the Howlin’ Ramblers.
Howlin’ Ramblers open fire with a lot of rock with a lot of roll, an experienced swing and roots musical combo who draw on the likes of Charlie Feathers, Hank Williams and Elmore James.
They began their journey back in 2016. Their name is a tribute to the roots of rock’n’roll - blues
(Howlin’ Wolf) and country (Hank ‘the Ramblin’ Man’ Williams). Over the years, the quintet from the south of Spain has developed its own sound that has been defined as raw and wild ‘Rockabilly-Stomp and Rockin ‘Blues-Bop’. A swinging blues-roots band doesn’t rely on repeating all the old standards, like so many others on the south coast. They are the real deal in this
case, belting out original rock’n’roll in English with a Cadiz accent.
This is set to be the liveliest way to get ready for summer, at an authentic legend of a rock venue in Estepona.
Howlin’ Ramblers play Louie Louie opposite Estepona harbour on Friday, May 16 at 11.30pm. The gig is €11 in advance with tickets from woutick.com.
AS part of the special commemorative programme of the Hotel Lima Marbella’s first six decades of activity, on May 15 they celebrate a free-to-enter musical event that will include the acoustic performances by Antonio Arias and Soleá Morente, along with an audiovisual display about the history of the hotel, which will turn the façade into a stage and will have an audience area set up by Marbella Council in front of the building.
Opening, with the collaboration of Ramón Fandila, an irrepressible creator with more than three decades of tireless event organisation as the head of Lagartija Nick, solo and as part of multiple collaboration projects, experimenting with a variety of cutting-edge genres and styles, breaking the convention and creating a vast and compact songbook.
To round off the free night, supported by Rubén Campos, an artist capable of honouring his flamenco and in-demand name, un-
compromising, capturing his intelligence and balance.
The festive evening will be a night to remember, open to everyone but with a feel of the exclusive and special.
Hotel Lima is at Avenida Antonio Belón, 2, Marbella. The 60th anniversary celebration is on Thursday, May 15, starting at 8pm.
Simply Thriving
THIRTY Simply Thriving Group enjoyed making a chocolate bar in Mijas on Wednesday May 7 at Mayan Monkey Chocolate Factory and were joined by several more of the group for an excellent lunch in Mijas at La Reja.
On Thursday May 22, afternnon tea is planned at La Sierra and a lunch on Thursday June 5.
On June 25, June Days out In Andalucia are offering to organise a trip to the lakes and lunch out at a venta. Anyone interested in any of these events which are open to everyone, please get in touch on the Facebook site Simply Thriving Group.
Howlin’ Ramblers tearing up the stage.
Hotel Lima, 60 years old this month.
Pirates ahoy!
FROM May 15 to 18, Benalmadena Costa will hoist the pirate flag for the Pirate Market at Castillo Bil Bil, a truly pirating spring event mixing history, adventure, and walking the plank.
Supported by Benalmadena Council, the market will feature 35 stalls with crafts, food, and drinks, alongside a packed programme of family-friendly activities. The council praised its ‘originality and detailed pirate-themed feel’, inviting residents and visitors to enjoy culture, leisure, and local commerce, as well as some pirate fun, me hearties.
Castillo Bil Bil is going to morph into a bustling pirate port, bringing back the golden age of buccaneers with Mediterranean views. The Benalmadena Costa promenade will come alive with live music, street theatre, colourful parades, acro-
plays, juggling, archery, brain teasers, and dazzling fire shows illuminating the nights. Open from 11am to 2pm and 5pm to 11.30pm, the market caters to history buffs, families, and those seeking fun experiences while promoting local businesses.
The event is expec-
ted to draw huge crowds, bringing out Benalmadena’s reputation as a hub for creative, high-quality, and slightly weird tourism. From May 15 to 18, Castillo Bil Bil will fly the skull and crossbones, inviting all to embark on a swashbuckling adventure.
Michael Jackson tribute
FANS of the King of Pop are in for a treat this month as one of the world’s best Michael Jackson tribute artists returns to the Costa del Sol.
Gus Jackson will perform live at Casino Admiral San Roque on Friday, May 30, with a high-energy show that brings all of Michael’s biggest hits to life. With nearly 30 years of ex-
Speakeasy Constanza
CONSTANZA BERGEN returns to Speakeasy Jazz and Cocktails in Fuengirola with a duo performance with regular Simon Coles on keyboards. The multitalented Canadian chanteuse presents a night of jazzy and bluesy all-time greats.
Constanza is well known in Spain for her Nouvelle Chanson Française, jazz, and Latin rhythms, and having one of the best voices to be heard on the Costa del Sol.
She will also be returning to Speakeasy in June singing accompanied by the pianist daughter of the Cuban great, Chucho Valdés,as well as working on a series of other exciting projects.
Constanza plays Speakeasy Jazz and Cocktails on Friday, May 16 at 11.30pm. Entry free.
perience, Gus Jackson is internationally recognised for his incredible resemblance to MJ in appearance and performance. In 2018, Mjvibe.com awarded him Best Impersonator in Europe and Second Worldwide, and the ceremony took place at this very venue.
Gus started imitating Michael Jackson as a teenager and quickly stood out in the dance world. He now lives in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and regularly performs across Spain and abroad with his tribute show, King of Pop.
This is a night not to be missed. The show starts at 10pm, and there are two ticket options available:
€15 includes the show and a drink
€44 consists of a full dinner by Privilege Chefs, a long drink, and the show
Credit: Ayuntamiento Benalmadena
Gus Jackson as Michael Jackson.
Credit: Gus Jackson, Facebook
Cristian of Top Secret
EURO WEEKLY NEWS
caught up with Cristian, lead vocalist and guitarist of Top Secret, the Costa del Sol’s most electrifying covers band, known for their genre-spanning sets from ABBA to Rage Against the Machine.
EWN: How long has Top Secret been going?
Cristian: About 10 years. I was bored with predictable music and wanted to have fun. Now, the audience has a blast, and so do we.
EWN: What were you listening to today?
Cristian: Honestly, I don’t have free time. I pick songs based on the moment, not personal taste. It’s about what fits the crowd.
EWN: Not Rage Against the Machine, then?
Cristian: We play everything. Rage, ABBA, Queen, Metallica, Prodigy. It’s all
about the audience’s feel. I tell Gaetano and Alex, “Just follow me.” No gig’s the same; I improvise based on the crowd. People want fun, not old-school rock heroics. Post-pandemic, it’s about fun, dancing, even messing up lyrics to make them smile.
EWN: What’s the band’s biggest challenge?
Cristian: Winning over new crowds and creating magic. Gae-
tano and Alex let me lead, and I mix it up. Pop fans discover rock, rock fans dance to pop. I’ll sing lyrics wrong on purpose, catch someone’s eye, and joke about it. They laugh, buy a beer, and the party keeps going. Father of one, Cristian stays disciplined with voice exercises and rest, driven by his love for music and life.
Premiere Club welcomes Maika Lavera’s fusion set
PREMIERE Club in Marbella is set to host the Maika Lavera Band on Saturday, May 17, at 11.30pm, and entry is free. Known for their powerful stage presence and unique fusion of styles, the band promises an unforgettable night of live music in Plaza de los Olivos.
The Maika Lavera Band brings together four talented musicians with a shared passion for mixing genres. Their sound blends soul, rhythm, blues, jazz, alternative rock, and even touches of metal. Their setlist features a wide range of songs from the 1950s to the present, from smooth ballads to gritty rock.
Lead singer Maika Lavera is known
for her strong vocals and energy on stage. The band first performed at Premiere Club over a year ago, and the show was a hit with the crowd. This return promises to deliver the same electric atmosphere and quality performance.
Whether you are a classic soul or modern rock fan or want to enjoy a great night out with live music, this event is worth marking in your diary. The setting is relaxed, the entry is free, and the music will keep you on your feet all night.
Doors open early, so arrive on time to grab a good spot. For live music lovers in Marbella, this is one not to miss.
Jamaican beats at Bonnet
Bar Café in Fuengirola
ON Saturday, May 17, the Bonnet Bar Café in Fuengirola will come alive with the sounds of reggae as it hosts the Malaga Reggae Fest 2025. Supported by the well-known Rototom Sunsplash, the event promises hours of live music, family fun, and Caribbean flavour. Running from 4pm until 3am, the festival offers an impressive lineup of artists, including Shining Soul, a vibrant project featuring Adriana Rogan and members of Malaka Youth. Donovan Kingjay from South East London, DJ Lion, King Wadada Sound, and DJ
Mike B are joining them.
The location is ideal for families and reggae lovers alike. Set in a pedestrian area next to Sould Park, the venue includes a kids’ play zone and allows dogs on the terrace. Children up to 12 years old can enter for free. Early bird
tickets are available for €10, with door prices at €15. Along with great music, Jamaican food and cocktails will keep the good vibes flowing throughout the day and night.
Whether you are a long-time reggae fan or just looking for something different to do this weekend, the Malaga Reggae Fest is set to be a lively and welcoming event with something for everyone.
Get your tickets early, bring your friends, and enjoy a full day of positive energy and sunshine in the heart of Fuengirola.
The band first performed at Premiere Club over a year ago.
Cristian on stage