Sometimes twinkly lights, sangria and Mediterranean tapas (translated to mean ‘cover’ or ‘lid’) can transport you straight into vacation mode. My family recently celebrated my Mom’s birthday at Café Málaga in McKinney and ventured into two hours of luxurious food sampling filled with flamenco music by Tania Cordobes and Michael Stacy.

Our outdoor seating lulled us quickly into a calm state, admiring the cool breeze and sipping flavorful sangria. The music was a mix of American folk and Cuban, with additional influences like bossa nova, flamenco and samba. (Picture Joni Mitchell with a twist.) We even noticed a potter creating a few pieces amongst the landscape while listening to the music. Its outdoor sprawling patio is filled with lush landscaping, fountains and intricate rock designs. Our table reminisced about trips to Spain, and how the Spanish appreciate family meals, especially siestas. Each couple ordered three tapas (today’s tapa can be any food that is served on small plates and is usually accompanied by wine or beer) and prepared to share.

The cafe is named for the birthplace of the owner, Annie Stokes’, grandmother, Maria Carmen Bierma Cordero, born in the Province of Málaga, Spain (a port city in southern Spain) in the late 1800s. According to Stokes, The area where Carmen grew up in is in Andalucia is known for its olives, oranges, almonds, saffron and fish. We ordered a colorful mix of flavors, including the Taste of Mediterranean (artichoke tapenade, hummus and baba ghanoush with pita bread) roasted potatoes, shrimp, chicken and beef kabobs, wood-grilled hanger steak, gambas (sautéed shrimp with lemon juice, garlic and parsley) and potato croquettes. (Deep fried potato, bacon and cheese cakes served with chipotle aioli.)

Our sever continued to present different plates throughout the meal, extending the enjoyment and allowing us to celebrate Mom’s birthday without interruption. The sauces delivered the magic in each bite, and everyone at the table commented on feeling full and satisfied. The celebration ended with expressos and chocolate/cinnamon sticks, and toasts to another happy year. Café Málaga is a magical place that captures the essence of Spain in several savory bites.

Salud.

Photo credit: Café Málaga Web site

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About the author

Autumn Carpenter
While navigating the carpool lane and translating toddler conversations might not rank high on some adventure life lists, I happily include those accomplishments alongside skydiving, dodging Pamplonian bulls and surviving three-hour Vinyasa yoga classes. I look for the story in everyday situations, and convey them easily in both print and online mediums. I’m also SEO-friendly ghostblogger, web content writer and copywriter. Let’s collaborate on a project today!

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2 Comments

Carolyn Rhea

My birthday dinner was a memorable one; Cafe
Malaga is beautiful, and the food is the best I’ve eaten outside of Spain.

Reply

Sr. Stewart

My friend and I had the tapas buffet on Saturday afternoon. What a treat. I have been to Spain multiple times with my Spanish students through the years and I will tell you, Cafe Malaga is right on the money. The tapas were fabulous. The service was courteous and attentive. If you want a little taste of Spain….and can’t make it to the Iberian Peninsula…try Cafe Malaga.

Reply