Sergio Cerdán of La Tómbola wins the 12th Costa del Sol Espeto Competition

The art of grilling sardines on canes beside an open fire once again proved that it is much more than a cooking technique. The 12th Costa del Sol Espeto Competition brought together some of the region’s finest professionals to recognise the skill, precision and experience required to master one of Málaga’s most representative gastronomic traditions.

The overall winner was Sergio Cerdán Cervantes, espetero at La Tómbola, part of Grupo Bar América in Torremolinos. His control of the fire, the even cooking of the fish and his respect for traditional technique earned him first place in the competition.

Technique, seasoning and fire determine the winner

The jury assessed several aspects of the preparation process, including the cooking point, the amount of salt, the presentation of the espeto and each competitor’s ability to manage the fire.

Cerdán stood out for a balanced and precise execution that preserved the essence of the traditional Málaga espeto.

Second place went to Miguel Ángel de los Ríos, from Chiringuito Marina Playa in Rincón de la Victoria. Third place was awarded to Miguel León Navarrete, from Chiringuito La Mar Bonita, also located in Torremolinos.

The main prize was presented by Adolfo Trigueros, president of the Costa del Sol Business Circle, together with Torremolinos’ first deputy mayor, Marta Huete, and representatives of the event’s partner companies.

A culinary tradition turned into a tourist attraction

Beyond the competition itself, the event once again highlighted the importance of the espetero and the role of the espeto in the cultural identity of Málaga province.

This year’s edition was notable for the technical standard of the participants and the strong response from the public, who followed the competition throughout the day.

The espeto has become one of the Costa del Sol’s most recognisable symbols. Sardines threaded onto a cane and positioned beside glowing embers are a familiar sight at Málaga’s beach restaurants and one of the region’s main culinary attractions for both residents and visitors.

The competition aims to preserve this knowledge, pass it on to future generations and recognise a profession in which experience, wind direction, fire intensity and the exact positioning of each fish all play an important role.

A public sardine barbecue and live music complete the event

The programme also included a public sardine barbecue at affordable prices, giving visitors the chance to taste sardines prepared using the traditional technique.

Hundreds of people took part in the gastronomic event before enjoying a live music session by DJ Toulalan.

The combination of competition, food tasting and entertainment turned the event into a celebration for professionals, local residents and tourists alike.

Organisers congratulated the three winners, as well as all the participating beach restaurants and espeteros, for helping preserve one of Málaga’s most distinctive culinary traditions.

Torremolinos returns to the heart of espeto culture

The competition was organised by the Costa del Sol Business Circle and Torremolinos Town Council, with the support of public administrations, tourism organisations, business associations and partner brands.

Sergio Cerdán’s victory also reinforces Torremolinos’ position within the region’s espeto culture, as two of the top three places were awarded to professionals working in the municipality.

After twelve editions, the competition continues to strengthen its role as a showcase for Málaga cuisine and as a tribute to those who keep the fires of this deeply Mediterranean tradition burning.

Information source: Al Sol de la Costa, based on information from the 12th Costa del Sol Espeto Competition.