Seafood is the reason to eat in Torre del Mar. The chiringuitos along the beach serve espetos (sardines grilled on skewers over wood fires on the sand) — a Costa del Sol tradition at its most authentic here. Boquerones (fresh anchovies fried or marinated in vinegar) are another local standby. The restaurants around La Caleta de Vélez fishing port tend to be better value than those directly on the Paseo Marítimo, and the fish is equally fresh. Most restaurants serve a menú del día at lunch for around €10–12.