Plaza de la Mezquita - white and brown concrete building during nighttime
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Plaza de la Mezquita

4.6
·491k reviews·Benalmádena, Spain

A vibrant social hub in Benalmádena, famous for its hearty XXL bocadillos and lively 'tardeo' atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Lively atmosphere and dining

CrowdMedium
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Plaza de la Mezquita - white and brown concrete building during nighttime

Plaza de la Mezquita

Best Time

Evenings

Lively atmosphere and dining

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant social hub in Benalmádena, famous for its hearty XXL bocadillos and lively 'tardeo' atmosphere.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Come hungry and ready to share the legendary XXL bocadillos at El Tapeo!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Share the XXL Bocadillos

These giant sandwiches are meant for sharing! Perfect for groups or couples looking for a hearty meal.

⏰ Arrive for 'Tardeo'

Experience the popular afternoon social scene with drinks and tapas. Great for a relaxed break.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

XXL Bocadillos

XXL Bocadillos

El Tapeo Cafebar

Indulge in legendary, massive sandwiches perfect for sharing. A true taste of Benalmádena's hearty offerings.

Vibrant Evening Atmosphere

Vibrant Evening Atmosphere

Throughout the plaza

Experience the lively buzz of locals and visitors enjoying tapas, drinks, and good company as the sun sets.

Sweet Crepes and Desserts

Sweet Crepes and Desserts

El Tapeo Cafebar

Don't miss out on delicious sweet treats like Nutella and banana crepes to end your meal on a high note.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Plaza de la Mezquita is the heart of Arroyo de la Miel, buzzing with local life. Expect lively evenings, especially around dining spots. It's a great place to soak in the Benalmádena atmosphere, but can get busy during peak hours.

Dining Delights Await

This plaza is a culinary hotspot, famous for its generous portions, especially the XXL bocadillos. Come hungry and ready to share! Many venues offer a vibrant 'tardeo' (afternoon drinks and snacks) scene, perfect for a relaxed outing.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere and dining
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Peak 'tardeo' and social scene
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🍴 Hoy, paseando por Benalmádena, teníamos bastante hambre, así que fuimos a probar el famoso bocadillo XXL en @eltapeo_cafebar_benalmadena 🥖🔥. 📍 Está en plena Plaza de la Mezquita, Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena. 🤯 ¡Fue una locura! ✨ Perfecto para ir en grupo o disfrutarlo nosotros solos. 🍰 Además, rematamos con unas tortitas de postre… ⚡ ¡Nos volvemos a Málaga andando oara bajar la comida 😂😂🚶🏻‍♀️...
@_vamosvamos_
2.1K likes • 127.2K views

🎯 Share the XXL Bocadillos

These giant sandwiches are meant for sharing! Perfect for groups or couples looking for a hearty meal. TikTok

⏰ Arrive for 'Tardeo'

Experience the popular afternoon social scene with drinks and tapas. Great for a relaxed break. TikTok

Bar el tapeo en benalmadena plaza la mesquita
@soykalze
118 likes • 5.4K views
🎃🎃🎃🎃EL LABORATORIO DEL MAL 🎃🎃🎃🎃 Halloween 2022. En la Plaza de la Mezquita los días lunes 31 de Octubre y martes 1 de Noviembre. Una esperiencia que no te puedes perder. Organiza: Ayuntamiento de Benalmádena Produce: Eventos George Patrocinan: Maracas Beach Bil Bil,M&H Fuengirola,Nösha Vip Club,sinsinati,el Tapeo de la Plaza,Buda,explore móviles, luz Kim Manolo Naty,Brooklyn,Amsterdam café,La Ca...
@eventosgeorge
395 likes • 8.5K views

🎶 Check for Events

The plaza hosts various events, from Halloween celebrations to community fairs. TikTok+1

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and enjoying the lively atmosphere, so comfortable footwear is key. Reddit

#arroyodelamielbenalmadena #bonfirenight #bonefire🔥 #foryoupageofficiall #foryou #plazamezquita #2023❤😍 #christmas #viraltiktok
@malik_ezaan123
19 likes • 205 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Share the XXL Bocadillos

These giant sandwiches are meant for sharing! Perfect for groups or couples looking for a hearty meal. TikTok

⏰ Arrive for 'Tardeo'

Experience the popular afternoon social scene with drinks and tapas. Great for a relaxed break. TikTok

🎶 Check for Events

The plaza hosts various events, from Halloween celebrations to community fairs. TikTok+1

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and enjoying the lively atmosphere, so comfortable footwear is key. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Plaza de la Mezquita for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional dining, particularly the legendary XXL bocadillos at El Tapeo Cafebar. The generous portions and lively 'tardeo' scene are major draws. While the plaza itself is a public space, the surrounding establishments offer a memorable culinary and social experience.

What People Like

XXL bocadillos
Lively atmosphere
Generous portions

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can take a train from Malaga to Arroyo de la Miel, which is a short walk from Plaza de la Mezquita. Alternatively, buses are available, offering a scenic route. Reddit

Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity, especially during peak hours. Consider public transport or arriving early if driving. Some street parking may be available further out.

Plaza de la Mezquita is a central point. From here, you can easily access local buses or walk to explore other attractions in Arroyo de la Miel and Benalmádena. Reddit

Yes, taxis are usually available in this central area, especially during evenings when restaurants are busy. You can also find taxi ranks nearby.

It's a pleasant walk from the nearest beaches to Plaza de la Mezquita, taking around 15-20 minutes. Enjoy the coastal views along the way.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Plaza de la Mezquita is a public square and is free to enter. You only pay for food and drinks at the surrounding establishments. TikTok

As a public space, the plaza is accessible at all hours. However, individual restaurants and bars have their own operating times, typically open from late morning through the evening. TikTok

Yes, the plaza frequently hosts events, including seasonal celebrations like Halloween and community fairs. Keep an eye on local listings for upcoming activities. TikTok+1

Entrance fees for events vary. Some community events might be free, while others, like specific festivals or organized entertainment, may have a ticket price. TikTok

It is highly recommended to book tables, especially for popular spots like El Tapeo Cafebar, particularly during evenings and weekends to avoid disappointment. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The plaza is famous for its generous tapas and 'bocadillos XXL' (extra-large sandwiches). El Tapeo Cafebar is particularly renowned for these. TikTok+2

Many restaurants offer a variety of dishes. While traditional tapas can be meat-heavy, you can often find salads, patatas bravas (ask for no meat), and vegetable-based options. It's best to inquire directly with the establishment. TikTok

Visitors rave about the XXL bocadillos, goat salad, and various gratin dishes with bacon and ham. They also serve delicious crepes for dessert. TikTok+2

'Tardeo' refers to the popular afternoon social gathering for drinks and tapas. Plaza de la Mezquita is a prime spot for this, with many venues offering a lively atmosphere from the afternoon onwards. TikTok+1

Prices are generally reasonable, especially considering the portion sizes. Expect to pay around €5-€10 for tapas and €10-€20 for the larger bocadillos, with drinks being standard bar prices. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the plaza, especially during the evening when lights illuminate the area. The colorful facades of the buildings and the lively outdoor seating of the restaurants offer great shots. TikTok

For fewer crowds and softer light, consider visiting in the late morning or early afternoon on a weekday. Evenings offer a lively ambiance but will be busier. TikTok

While the plaza itself is the main attraction, look for interesting architectural details on the surrounding buildings and the lively street performers or decorations during special events. TikTok

Street photography capturing the local life, food photography of the generous dishes, and evening shots of the illuminated plaza are popular. TikTok+1

Drone usage is typically restricted in public urban areas due to privacy and safety regulations. It's advisable to check local ordinances before attempting to fly a drone.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Plaza de la Mezquita offers a family-friendly atmosphere, especially with its abundance of food options that appeal to all ages. The XXL bocadillos are a fun, shareable meal that kids often enjoy, and the sweet crepes are a guaranteed hit for dessert. TikTok+1 The open space of the plaza allows children some room to move around, and during events, there are often activities that cater to younger visitors. TikTok+1 Consider visiting earlier in the evening before it gets too crowded, or opt for a relaxed afternoon 'tardeo' experience.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Plaza de la Mezquita is a fantastic choice. The generous portion sizes, particularly the XXL bocadillos, mean you can often get a very filling meal for a reasonable price, especially when shared. TikTok This significantly cuts down on the cost of eating out. Opting for tapas and sharing dishes is also a cost-effective way to sample various local flavors without breaking the bank. TikTok Look for daily specials or set menus if available, and remember that drinks are generally affordably priced. TikTok

couples

Plaza de la Mezquita offers a charming setting for couples looking for a lively yet relaxed evening. Enjoy a romantic 'tardeo' with shared tapas and drinks, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere as the sun sets. TikTok+1 For a more substantial meal, sharing one of the famous XXL bocadillos can be a fun and intimate experience. TikTok The plaza's buzz provides a great backdrop for conversation, and the variety of dining options allows you to tailor your evening to your preferences.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Culinary Heart of Arroyo de la Miel

Plaza de la Mezquita is renowned as a gastronomic hub in Arroyo de la Miel, with El Tapeo Cafebar being a standout establishment. This spot is famous for its incredibly generous portions, particularly its XXL bocadillos that are a must-try for any visitor. These aren't just sandwiches; they're substantial meals designed for sharing, packed with various delicious ingredients like bacon, ham, and cheese. TikTok+1 Beyond the famous sandwiches, the menu also features hearty gratin dishes and tempting desserts like crepes, making it a versatile choice for lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack. TikTok

The plaza's dining scene thrives on the concept of 'tardeo,' a popular Spanish tradition of enjoying afternoon drinks and tapas. This creates a vibrant and social atmosphere, especially on weekends, where locals and tourists mingle. TikTok+1 The lively ambiance, combined with the hearty and affordable food, makes Plaza de la Mezquita a go-to destination for experiencing authentic Spanish social dining. It's a place where good food and good company come together.

Events and Community Spirit

Plaza de la Mezquita is more than just a dining destination; it's a central gathering point for the community, frequently hosting a variety of events throughout the year. From spooky Halloween celebrations that transform the plaza into a 'Laboratory of Evil' TikTok+1 to vibrant community fairs like the #BreakTheRoutine event showcasing local activities,TikTok there's often something happening. These events add an extra layer of excitement and cultural immersion for visitors, offering a glimpse into local traditions and celebrations. TikTok

Organizers like Eventos George and the Ayuntamiento de Benalmádena work to bring diverse experiences to the plaza, attracting families and individuals alike. Whether it's a seasonal festival, a local market, or a special performance, these gatherings highlight the dynamic spirit of Arroyo de la Miel. Checking local event listings before your visit can help you catch these special occasions and make your trip even more memorable. TikTok+1

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