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The finals of the 11th Costa del Sol Espeto Contest – a celebration Malaga’s emblematic tradition of sardine-skewering – will take place at Costa Lago Beach on Torremolinos’ Costa Lago Beach on Tuesday, August 2.
The event, organised by the Círculo de Empresarios de Torremolinos and supported for the eighth consecutive year by the Diputación de Málaga through its Sabor a Málaga brand, will crown this year’s best espetero.
“Espeto”, as it is called, has been described by many as one of the most representative forms of Malaga’s popular food and a profession that represents the chiringuitos on the south coast and the beaches. UNESCO recognizes the sardine espeto as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Costa del Sol Espeto Contest Jury: Search for the Best
This year’s jury comprises esteemed gastronomic professionals: Nacho Sandoval, a marketing expert with over 25 years of experience and creator of gastronomic routes; Arantxa López, founder of GastronÓmico, known for connecting brands and destinations through culinary experiences; Txema Palacio, corporate chef of Besaya Group, which mixes Andalusian tradition with contemporary food styles; Irene Garrido Lomeña, an award-winning chef with four Michelin Plate recognitions; José Antonio Gómez Gutiérrez, a seasoned espetero and director of Cope Marbella; Mª Carmen Hernández Lamas, a Sabor a Málaga collaborator promoting Malaga’s recipes; and Carlos Navarro, a sushi master who represented Spain at the 2016 World Sushi Cup.
The contest follows two semifinals held in Mijas and Torre del Mar on May 24 and June 28, featuring espeteros from 14 Costa del Sol municipalities: Malaga, Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Fuengirola, Mijas, Marbella, Estepona, Manilva, Casares, Rincón de la Victoria, Vélez-Málaga, Algarrobo, Torrox, and Nerja. Twelve finalists will compete for the 2025 title, with prizes of €1,000, €500, and €300 for first, second, and third place, respectively.
Come and see the Costa del Sol Espeto Contest to find the best espeto on the land
Each contestant prepares two skewers. One will be sardines; the other, a fish. The jury will assess based upon preparation time and uniformity in cooking, texture of the food, flavour, seasonings, and presentation.
This event will showcase the passion and skill behind this Costa del Sol tradition.
It is advertised that the event will begin at 6pm. However, this reporter has found it best to wait until after 9pm to go, because the espeteros may take some time to get set up and to start their barcas.
