Oleo Restaurante
Founded by Sergio del RÃo and Rui Junior in 2022, Óleo Restaurante is something of an institution in Malaga and one of the city centre’s most established venues. It has made a name for itself based on a fusion concept where you’ll find Mediterranean-inspired dishes next to one of the most extensive sushi menus in town.
“When Sergio del RÃo met Rui Junior, the Malaga versión of Japanese-Mediterranean fusion was born. A double menu, where you’ll find the perfect combination of traditional tapas with a touch of genius (like their much-copied patatas bravas) and a fantastic range of sushi.”
CLUB GASTRONOMICO KM0, APRIL 2026
Both chefs honour seasonal produce, with local products taking centre stage wherever possible, so expect to find fresh fish from Malaga on the menu as well as fruit and vegetables from nearby farms. In addition, the restaurant has an excellent location – Óleo Restaurante sits in Soho, opposite Antonio Banderas’ Soho Theatre, and just a few minutes from Calle Larios and Malaga Port.
We’ve included Óleo Restaurante as one of our Treat Yourself picks because it offers creative cuisine, reliable quality (we visit often) and very reasonable prices. Expect to spend €40-60 per person – wallet-friendly enough to treat yourselves more than once on your stay!
What’s on the menu at Óleo Restaurante?
If we had to describe this menu, we’d call it varied and delicious. The combination of Mediterranean dishes with Japanese dining allows you to mix and match your lunch or dinner, or different diners at the same table can eat completely different cuisines. We can’t think of many other good restaurants in Malaga offering this combo.
Mediterranean dining
Lets start with the dishes inspired by Malaga and all its fresh produce outside Óleo’s front door.
Starters
Sergio del RÃo has perfected a tapas list that includes traditional dishes that all come with a signature touch. So, his hummus is edamame-bean based, his croquettes have a hint of mint and the patatas bravas come with a spicy foam (many local diners come here specifically for these potatoes).
There are also more innovative tapas such as the horse mackerel (jurel) ceviche and a house mini burger. Plus three generous salads – we like the Óleo take on tabouleh.
Mains
Meat and fish are the stars of the show here, with the Óleo maxim of quality produce in the spotlight. Iberian pork and Galician beef – both prime products – are two examples, as well as suckling pig and tuna.
How much do the Mediterranean dishes cost?
- Tapas cost €2 to €5.50 (half portions are available for some, from €10)
- Salads cost from €11
- Main dishes cost from €19 to €40
Sushi dining
Rui Junior has forged a reputation as one of Malaga’s best sushi chefs – his nigiri are locally famous – and sushi fans will not be disappointed at Óleo.
The menu runs long – think tiraditos, nigiri, uramaki, maki sushi and sashimi – and pieces are available as single units or as 6 or 8-piece plates (uramaki, maki sushi and sashimi). Again, regional produce stars, particularly freshly-caught tuna in season (late spring to mid-summer).
How much does the sushi cost?
- Individual pieces cost €3 to €6
- The Óleo combo (16 pieces) costs €29.50
Discover exactly what’s on the menu
Daily specials
As well as its usual menu, Óleo Restaurante also has a list of daily specials. These dishes get their inspiration from seasonal produce and include Mediterranean and sushi creations. Ask the waiter for recommendations on the day you visit.
Desserts
There are just six options on the menu, with something for everyone from the refreshing Óleo pineapple with coconut foam to the more substantial cashew brownie. However, locals come here to try the lemon pie and the millefeuille, both star dessert creations. €6.80
What about vegetarians?
Apart from the main dishes, Óleo has a range of options for non-meat eaters. We recommend the tabouleh salad and autumn roll, both are our favourites although we’re not veggie. The hummus and goat’s cheese rolls are also good.
Pescatarians have a much wider choice, including most of the sushi pieces.
If you’re gluten-intolerant, do let the kitchen know and they’ll adapt dishes for you.
What’s in your glass at Óleo Restaurante?
The wine list is short, but select and includes a prime pick of Malaga wines and an excellent range of champagne and cava. You can start your meal with a vermouth.
There’s also a good section of wine by glass – around 10 options – priced at €3.50 to €5.90. Wine by the bottle starts at €17. Ask the waiter for suggestions, particularly if you’re eating sushi and want a wine that pairs. Japanese alternatives include sake and whisky.
Service
Expect a wam welcome and plenty of help when deciding on your sushi and/or wine. Staff speak English and the English-language version of the menu is also good.
If you choose to dine here on the restaurant’s busiest days (Friday evening and Saturday), don’t be surprised if the service is on the slow side.
Location and ambience
At the east end of Soho, Óleo Restaurante’s location couldn’t be better. It’s opposite Soho Theatre (side entrance), making it a good place for an after-play dinner and just a few minutes’ walk from Calle Larios, the Alameda Principal and Malaga Port.
Inside is roomy, with comfortable chairs. The décor is understated, with nods to Soho street art in the Obey art work on the walls. You can also sit at the bar. Some tables have views of the kitchen – a good option if you’d like to see the creative action.
Outside, the terrace winds around both sides of the corner, on pedestrian streets, so no traffic noise or fumes when you’re sitting outside. The east-facing side is a good option for lunch in summer since it’s in the shade.
Accessibility
Óleo Restaurante is 100% wheelchair accessible.