Ultramarinos Zoilo
Tucked away on Calle Granada, steps from the Santiago church, Ultramarinos Zoilo is a Malaga grocery shop that has been selling authentic Andalusian products since 1956.
The story begins with love and ambition in equal measure. When Zoilo Montero’s uncle decided to sell the shop in 1956, young Zoilo (just 21 at the time) convinced him to hand over the reins instead.
His motivation wasn’t purely business-minded, though: right next door, Mari Carmen ran an egg shop, and she would soon become his wife.
A traditional Malaga grocery shop in the tourist centre
In case you’re wondering, an ultramarinos is a traditional Spanish grocery shop. It’s the kind that once dotted every neighbourhood in Malaga before supermarkets arrived.
Nowadays, Zoilo is among the last survivors in the tourist-heavy historic centre. And the shelves tell the story of Malaga itself.
You’ll find an array of treats sure to make excellent gifts or mementoes of your time in southern Spain:
- Pan de higo (a dense fig bread that’s more confection than loaf)
- Borrachuelos (honey-soaked pastries typical of Malaga)
- Olives stuffed with almonds
- María Manín tortas (traditional biscuits)
- Local mango jam
- Chestnuts in syrup
Everything here has that distinctly Malaga taste that can’t be found anywhere else.
Authentic Andalusian shopping experience
The clientele is wonderfully democratic. You’re as likely to spot a lawyer buying Malaga salchichón (a firm salami-style sausage) as a neighbourhood señora (lady) picking up sunflower oil to offer at the Santiago church next door, an old tradition believed to help prayers come true.
Though Zoilo Montero himself passed away in 2024 after 75 years behind the counter, his family continues the tradition he built – one that embodies the authentic Andalusian shopping experience that’s rapidly disappearing from modern Malaga.
The Malaga Guru team comprises individuals of diverse ages and backgrounds who share a common bond – a deep affection for the city of Malaga, its rich culture, and its warm-hearted inhabitants!