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Chef Jose Carlos Garcia outside his new restaurant in Malaga

José Carlos García goes back to where it all began

After 15 years of cooking by the port, Malaga’s longest-serving Michelin-star chef has returned to his culinary roots. José Carlos García has just opened his latest venture in the heart of La Malagueta, in the building that once housed his parents’ restaurant.

The move marks a new era for the chef, who has chosen AHORA, LIBRE (Now, Free) as the slogan for this next stage. Here he intends to cook “from a more personal standpoint, closer and more connected with where I am right now”.

The new venue is smaller and more intimate than his previous restaurant. “It allows us to reclaim an essential part of our story and, at the same time, build something completely new,” explains José Carlos. “In this cosier space, the kitchen, the dining room and our relationship with our guests can take on a new dimension.”

Interior at Restaurante Jose Carlos Garcia in Malaga

For many locals and visitors, Restaurante José Carlos García was an essential part of Muelle Uno. It was a dream come true for the chef, who wanted to prove he could go it alone. He certainly did that (and more), holding on to the Michelin star he first won in 2002. For 20 years, his was the only Michelin star in Malaga city.

But José Carlos always wanted to return to Café de París in La Malagueta, a legendary name on the city’s dining scene. It was here that he cut his culinary teeth alongside his parents and earned his first Michelin star. He still makes his mother’s tocino de cielo, a rich egg-yolk custard, for the restaurant.

Those of us who knew Café de París back in the day will recognise the location (and the iconic giant entrance), but the interior may come as a surprise. Think modern, airy and natural. It’s no accident that choosing the materials took over a year. “This isn’t about luxury,” says José Carlos, “it’s special.”

The menu continues to showcase his interpretation of Malaga cuisine and local produce. The 11-dish tasting menu remains (€159.50, with an optional pairing), now joined by an à la carte option for those who don’t want the full menu.

His wife, Lourdes Luque, continues as maître d’ and in charge of the wine list.