Michelin-starred dining, Alcazaba views, and Spain's best croquette on a Plaza de la Merced rooftop
Cañitas Maite sits atop the new ME Málaga hotel on the corner of Plaza de la Merced, in the former Cine Andalucía building.
This isn't just another rooftop bar. This is Málaga's first Michelin-starred rooftop dining experience, helmed by acclaimed chefs Javier Sanz and Juan Sahuquillo.
The rooftop is open to both hotel guests and the public, with reservations highly recommended for the restaurant. The bar operates on a walk-in basis, though arriving early ensures the best seating.
What sets Cañitas Maite apart is the combination of world-class cuisine, exceptional cocktails, and views that put you eye-level with Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle. It's rare to find Michelin-caliber food paired with such a spectacular setting.
Best For
- Food lovers seeking Michelin-starred cuisine with a view
- Couples celebrating special occasions with romantic atmosphere
- Travelers wanting to experience Spain's 'Best Croquette' firsthand
- Hotel guests at ME Málaga with direct rooftop access
- Anyone seeking elevated dining without stuffiness
Not Ideal For
- Budget travelers looking for casual drinks
- Large groups expecting party atmosphere
- Those seeking sea views (views focus on Alcazaba/Gibralfaro)
- Families with very young children after 8 PM (adults-only policy)
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The Vibe
Cañitas Maite strikes an impressive balance between fine dining sophistication and rooftop bar relaxation. The space feels contemporary and refined without being intimidating, with design touches that nod to both the building's cinema heritage and Málaga's creative energy.
During the day, natural light floods the terrace, and the atmosphere stays relaxed and casual. As evening arrives, the lighting shifts, the Alcazaba illuminates, and the space transforms into something more intimate and romantic.
The crowd is diverse: hotel guests enjoying convenient luxury, locals celebrating special occasions, and food enthusiasts who've traveled specifically to experience the Michelin-starred offerings. Staff are knowledgeable and attentive, striking that perfect balance between professional and personable.
What's refreshing is that despite the premium positioning, there's no pretension here. You can come for cocktails and bar snacks, or settle in for a full tasting menu. Both approaches are equally welcome.
Nearby Hotels & Accommodation
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Opening Hours
Bar Hours:
- Daily: 12:00 PM – 01:00 AM
Restaurant Hours:
- Lunch: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Dinner: 8:00 PM – 11:30 PM
Important: Children are welcome during daytime hours, but the rooftop operates as adults-only after 8:00 PM.
Menu & Prices
The menu at Cañitas Maite showcases the Michelin-starred expertise of chefs Javier Sanz and Juan Sahuquillo, known for their innovative approach to traditional Spanish cuisine.
Signature Dishes:
- Iberian Ham Croquette – Awarded "Best Croquette in Spain," this is a must-try. Rich, creamy, and perfectly executed. €8
- Grilled Scarlet Prawn (Carabinero) – Showcases their mastery of Mediterranean seafood. Market price
- Tasting Menu – Multi-course experience highlighting seasonal ingredients. €65-85
Bar Menu:
- Premium tapas: €8-18
- Sharing plates: €15-28
- Cocktails: €15-20
- Wine by the glass: €8-15
- Premium spirits: €12-25
Full Restaurant Service: Available for lunch and dinner, with à la carte options and tasting menus. Reservations strongly recommended.
Compare prices for Cañitas Maite at ME Málaga
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The View & Seating
From Cañitas Maite, you're eye-level with two of Málaga's most iconic monuments: the Alcazaba fortress and Gibralfaro Castle rising behind it. This perspective is unique among the city's rooftops, offering an intimate view of the illuminated stone walls at night.
Below, Plaza de la Merced spreads out with its palm trees and historic architecture. To the sides, the old town's terracotta rooftops create that quintessential Málaga panorama.
Seating options include:
- Restaurant dining tables with full service
- Bar-height tables along the terrace edge
- Lounge seating for cocktails and light bites
- Indoor-outdoor spaces for year-round comfort
Best seats for Alcazaba views are along the northern edge. Arrive for sunset to watch the monuments glow as evening falls.
How to Make a Reservation
Restaurant Dining: Reservations are essential, especially for dinner and weekends. Book through:
- ME Málaga hotel website
- Direct phone: +34 952 00 77 00
- Email through hotel concierge
Bar Area: Walk-ins welcome, but arrival before 7 PM recommended for best seating, particularly if you want specific views.
Hotel Guests: Direct elevator access from hotel lobby. Advance booking still recommended for restaurant dining.
Sunrise at Gibralfaro Castle
Watch the sun rise over Malaga from the highest point in the city. The views stretch from the bullring to the port and beyond.
“The castle opens at 9am, but staying at the Parador gives you access to the terrace at dawn - before anyone else arrives.”
Parador de Malaga Gibralfaro - The only hotel with direct castle access. Wake up and walk straight onto the terrace for sunrise.
Check AvailabilityDress Code
The atmosphere at Cañitas Maite calls for smart casual to elegant attire, particularly for evening dining.
What works:
- Smart casual for lunch and bar visits
- Elegant evening wear for dinner service
- Collared shirts and nice trousers
- Dresses and stylish separates
- Clean, polished footwear
What doesn't work:
- Beach attire or swimwear
- Athletic wear or gym clothing
- Flip-flops or very casual footwear
- Overly casual shorts or tank tops
During lunch hours, the dress code is more relaxed, but the evening service expects a more refined appearance.
Access & Getting There
Finding the entrance: ME Málaga occupies the former Cine Andalucía building on the corner of Plaza de la Merced. Enter through the main hotel lobby on Calle Victoria, 6. Take the elevator directly to the rooftop level.
By foot: The hotel sits right on Plaza de la Merced, one of Málaga's most iconic squares. It's a 10-minute walk from Calle Larios and 5 minutes from the Picasso Museum.
Parking: Limited street parking in the area. Nearest public parking:
- Parking Plaza de la Merced (2-minute walk)
- Parking Alcazaba (5-minute walk)
Public transport:
- Multiple bus lines stop at Plaza de la Merced
- 15-minute walk from María Zambrano train station
- Easily accessible from the historic center
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Location & Map
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Calle Victoria, 6, 29012 Málaga, Spain
Our Verdict
Cañitas Maite at ME Málaga raises the bar for rooftop dining in the city. The combination of Michelin-starred cuisine, exceptional cocktails, and those stunning Alcazaba views creates something truly special. Yes, it's premium-priced, but the quality justifies the cost.
The signature croquette lives up to its "Best in Spain" reputation, and the overall dining experience matches what you'd expect from chefs of this caliber. The setting adds another dimension that few restaurants can offer.
Best for: Special occasions, food enthusiasts, romantic evenings, and anyone seeking elevated dining with a view that rivals the food.
Skip if: You're on a tight budget, want casual drinks only, or prefer sea views over monument views. For the ultimate experience, staying at ME Málaga gives you priority access and the convenience of the elevator to your room after dinner.
If you're staying at ME Málaga, don't miss the ME Málaga rooftop pool for the complete luxury rooftop experience.
Planning a special occasion? Book ME Málaga for Michelin-starred dining, rooftop pool access, and the best views of the Alcazaba.
Contact Information
- Website
- Visit website
Information last verified: 20/01/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Cañitas Maite is on the rooftop of ME Málaga hotel at Calle Victoria, 6, on the corner of Plaza de la Merced in the historic center.
No, Cañitas Maite is open to the public. However, reservations are highly recommended for restaurant dining.
Smart casual is recommended, with more elegant attire preferred for evening dinner service. Beach attire and athletic wear are not appropriate.
Absolutely. The Iberian Ham Croquette was awarded 'Best Croquette in Spain' and lives up to its reputation. It's a must-try signature dish.
Yes, children are welcome during daytime hours. After 8:00 PM, the rooftop operates as adults-only.
Expect €40-65 per person for à la carte dining, or €65-85 for the tasting menu, plus drinks. Bar snacks and cocktails run €15-25.
Have another question about Cañitas Maite at ME Málaga? Feel free to contact us.

About the Author
Heidi Hein
South African travel writer living in Málaga, Spain. I personally visit and review every rooftop bar and pool featured on this site.
- Based in Málaga since 2020
- Visited 100+ rooftop venues across Andalusia
- All content personally verified and updated seasonally
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase through them, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend places we genuinely love and believe are worth your time.

Note: I personally visit every rooftop featured on this site, and all opinions are based on my own firsthand experience. If, in the case of private hostels where I can't get access, I will make a note of it. Any external images or details sourced from others are always clearly credited.


