Chinchín Puerto brings harbour-fresh seafood straight to the table in Caleta de Velez

Diners who value honest, sincere, down-to-earth cooking should head to this family-run spot in the working port of Caleta de Velez for dishes that taste of the sea itself. Sebastián Martín and Lourdes Villalobos, once owners of their own fishing boat, opened Chinchín Puerto after selling the vessel to focus on serving the very same catch they used to land. The name comes from a longstanding family nickname, and every element stays rooted in that seafaring past.

Couldn’t be fresher. Couldn’t be tastier

Products arrive daily from the local fish auction, displayed in a cabinet so customers see exactly what came off the boats hours earlier. Chefs write the available species on a blackboard each morning, then prepare many fish in three distinct styles from the same specimen: pan-fried, roasted, and served raw as sashimi. This approach lets guests compare textures and flavours without waste, a detail regulars mention with enthusiasm. Another unique one is the Russian salad. Many expats find it strange that this dish is such an obsession in Spain, but here, they have gone one step further, earning recognition as the best in Spain back in 2020 thanks to its creamy base topped with baby shrimp sautéed in their own juices.

Service feels knowledgeable yet relaxed, with staff often able to name the specific boat that landed the catch. Tables on the terrace look straight across the marina, where working vessels bob beside yachts, creating a lived-in maritime backdrop that feels far removed from polished resort dining. Conversation flows easily here, whether over lunch or a quieter evening meal.

Expect to pay in the mid-to-upper range for the area, with most main courses falling between fifteen and €30 and a full meal for two with wine reaching around €80 to €150. But this restaurant is for special occasions. Quality justifies the outlay for many, though portions reward sharing. Bookings prove essential, particularly at weekends or during summer evenings, as the limited seats fill quickly through online systems.

Crisp whites from nearby Axarquia vineyards cut through the richness of grilled octopus or clams, while a local rosé complements the borriquete or quisquillas de arrastre. Those who try the clams or the three-way fish preparations can’t help but return for more.

Practical details

Chinchín Puerto occupies spaces 3A and 4A at Puerto Deportivo Caleta de Velez. Call +34 952 03 04 43 or reserve via Resy or CoverManager. The kitchen closes on Mondays and Tuesdays, opens for lunch Wednesday to Sunday from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, and adds dinner service on Fridays and Saturdays from 8.30pm to 11.30pm.