Restaurante Miguel El Manga — Restaurant in Nerja

After a long search for a pleasant dining spot, my friend and I were drawn to a restaurant boasting glowing Google reviews. we ordered a salad, a seafood soup, and sautéed potatoes. The salad arrived undressed, which was tolerable, but the potatoes looked far from fresh, cooked with onions that added little redemption. The true disappointment, however, was the seafood soup, which emitted an off-putting smell even before tasting. Regrettably, it tasted as bad as it smelled, leading us both to spit out our first spoonfuls. The soup was undeniably not fresh.

The reaction of the staff added insult to injury. Although the waiter noticed our untouched dishes, he ignored us for an extended period. No apology was offered, nor were any alternatives proposed, and we were still charged for the unsavory soup. This experience left a bitter taste, not just from the food but from the clear disregard for customer satisfaction. It seemed evident that tourists, who are unlikely to return, were not given the attention or respect they deserve. I candidly recommend avoiding this establishment to save yourself from a similar...

Miguel and family have moved to the Old Boatyard, the new place is not far from Venta San Miguel which has now closed down. Had a very warm welcome from Miguel and his son as always and were given a guided tour of the new restaurant. Fantastic food (pork knuckle for lunch) served from the open plan kitchen. Later in the week dinner (lamb shoulder) again excellent and thoroughly enjoyed by our Spanish friends, washed down with a very good house Rioja. Large outside seating area, small separate bar and across the road from the beach....perfect. Highly recommend this restaurant to our family and friends. Gracias Miguel and family, we can't wait to see you all again for more...

Well what can I say. The first place I ate in Spain over 15 years ago was their previous restaurant, I've been back to the restaurant on at least one occasion every year since. I can honestly say I've never had anywhere near a bad or even average meal, this is food cooked with love in a traditional way, this kind of food doesn't need a flash decor or over trained staff, this is a true family run authentic rustic food restaurant. To be fair I don't often like to share things I like but without sharing I'd be being too selfish. If you're in the area, you love your food and want to have a guaranteed fantastic traditional rustic meal then this place is a must. Tell Miguel...