José Carlos García Unveils New Michelin-Star Summer Menu in Marbella

With the 2026 spring and summer season officially underway, the Costa del Sol is gearing up for its busiest and most vibrant time of the year. Beyond outdoor excursions like enjoying spectacular falconry and high-altitude views at Valle de las Águilas, for locals, expats, and visitors alike, the shift in weather means one thing: an updated culinary landscape. If you are looking to elevate your dining plans this season, Málaga-born chef José Carlos García has just refreshed his menu at the exclusive Kimpton Los Monteros in Marbella, offering a compelling reason to book a table.

A Fresh Take on Haute Cuisine

José Carlos García is no stranger to the highest echelons of Spanish gastronomy. Best known for his eponymous Michelin-starred restaurant in Málaga’s Muelle Uno, the chef has steadily expanded his influence along the coast. His outpost at the Kimpton Los Monteros brings his signature precision to Marbella, tailored specifically for the relaxed yet refined atmosphere of the luxury resort.

This season’s new menu is described by the chef’s team as a “more open and expressive” version of his traditional haute cuisine. What does that mean for your plate? Expect a deliberate move away from heavy, overly complex winter dishes toward lighter, produce-driven creations. The focus remains strictly on high-quality, local Andalusian ingredients—particularly seafood from the Alboran Sea, a pristine catch celebrated by the coast’s legendary seafood purists, and fresh produce from the Guadalhorce Valley—but presented with a newfound playfulness suited for warm summer evenings.

Dining at Kimpton Los Monteros

The venue itself is a significant part of the experience. The Kimpton Los Monteros, a recently revitalized icon of Marbella’s hospitality scene, provides a stunning backdrop for García’s culinary vision. The gastronomic restaurant within the hotel pairs the chef’s meticulous dishes with an extensive wine list and impeccable service, making it a standout destination for 2026.

As highlighted in Elle’s 2026 Marbella gastronomic guide, the competition for the best dining experiences on the coast is fierce this year. However, García’s ability to balance Michelin-level technique with the approachable, sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean ensures this renewed menu remains a top recommendation for anyone seeking a memorable meal.

What to Expect

While the exact tasting menu shifts depending on daily market availability, diners can look forward to:

• Local Catch: Expertly prepared seasonal fish and shellfish, highlighting the natural salinity and sweetness of local waters.
• Vibrant Produce: Dishes that hero tomatoes, citrus, and fresh herbs, cutting through the heat of the Marbella summer.
• Expressive Plating: A visual feast that matches the vibrant energy of the Costa del Sol, stepping away from rigid fine-dining norms toward something more fluid and engaging.

Practical Advice for Diners

If you plan to experience José Carlos García’s new summer menu, booking well in advance is essential. Marbella’s high season draws food enthusiasts from across the globe, and tables at premium venues like the Kimpton Los Monteros fill up weeks ahead of time. Dress codes typically lean toward smart-casual—think elegant but comfortable enough to enjoy a multi-course tasting menu on a warm evening.

Whether you are celebrating a milestone or simply want to treat yourself to some of the finest cooking the province has to offer—perhaps as a refined contrast to Málaga’s bustling tapas scene—sitting down to a meal crafted by one of Málaga’s true culinary ambassadors is always time well spent. We hope this upcoming summer brings you fantastic food, long evenings, and great company around the table.