It's not hard to see why eating and drinking is a national pastime in Spain. And it's easy to enjoy, whatever your budget. Life on the Costa del Sol revolves around its restaurants and bars. 
The latter come in various guises, including bodegas (traditional wine bars), chirringitos (beach bars), cervecerías (beer bars), tabernas (taverns) and pubs. 
Tapas is available in most of these places, as well as more substantial meals and snacks.
Here is a selection of some of our favourites:

Bars

Terra Blues, 2nd line Puerto Banus You'll find a lively crowd dancing and drinking until late into the night. 
Sinatras, 1st line Puerto Banus Occupying a prime position at the entrance to the port this is an ideal place to sit back and watch the world go by, with G&T in hand!
MC Café, Marbella Club Hotel, Marbella Stylish café-bar with a terrace where the beautiful people mix with visiting celebrities to create a sophisticated atmosphere.
Trader Vics, La Alcazaba, Puerto Banus Cocktail heaven combined with Polynesian titbits feature at this established bar-café-restaurant. Sushi nights are a regular feature.
Frank's Corner Bar, Camilo Jose Cela, Marbella, A lively mix of locals and visitors enjoy this film-themed bar. Where else can you sip a beer in the open air and gaze at the bike used by Arnold Schwarzenegger in Terminator?

Restaurants 

Terra Sana, Nueva Andalucia is the cool place to meet, eat and relax on the Costa del Sol. The colourful, eclectic styling, healthy menu have turned the brand into a phenomenon in just three years. 
Zozoi, Old Town, Marbella, a firm favourite, this old converted house provides the perfect atmosphere for their exciting brand of international cuisine. Closed on Sundays.
The Suite, Puente Romano Hotel, the new place to be seen. Creative fusion food with a Moroccan influence. Attracts the young and fashionable for food and late night music.
Dalli's Pasta Factory, 2nd line Puerto Banus has been serving pasta and pizza to appreciative diners in Marbella for over 40 years. Highly popular fresh pasta and pizza cooked to perfection.
Tikitano, New Golden Mile, set in a wonderful beachfront location with something for everyone. Lively yet comfortable the international menu and charcoal grill will have even the most jaded of palettes salivating.