The name “Magalon” is derived from a Spanish term meaning “great” or “excellent,” and the restaurant certainly lives up to its name.
If you’re a fan of Spanish cuisine and find yourself in Charleston, South Carolina, then you simply must visit Malagón. Located in the charming Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood, Malagón is a tapas-style restaurant that specializes in Spanish cuisine. The menu at Magalon is designed for sharing, with an array of small plates, charcuterie, cheeses, and larger entrees. The tapas menu includes classic Spanish dishes such as Patatas Bravas, Albóndigas, and Gambas al Ajillo, as well as innovative creations like Octopus and Lobster. The cheese and charcuterie plates feature a variety of Spanish cheeses and cured meats, served with house-made accouterments like pickled vegetables and marcona almonds.
what are tapas?
Tapas are a style of dining that originated in Spain and have since gained popularity around the world. The word “tapas” comes from the Spanish verb “tapar,” which means “to cover.” Traditionally, tapas were small plates of food that were served on top of a glass of wine or beer to cover it, preventing insects from getting into the drink. Over time, tapas evolved into a unique culinary experience characterized by the sharing of small, flavorful dishes.
Tapas are typically served in a social setting, encouraging conversation and a leisurely dining experience. The dishes are meant to be shared among the diners, allowing everyone to sample a variety of flavors and textures. The portions are small, allowing for a diverse and varied meal.
What makes tapas special is the wide range of dishes that can be considered tapas. They can include anything from bite-sized appetizers like olives, cheese, and cured meats, to more complex dishes like seafood, grilled vegetables, or meatballs. Each region in Spain has its own specialty tapas, showcasing the unique flavors and ingredients of that particular area.
our experience
Upon entering Magalon, you’ll be greeted by a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. The restaurant features dark wood accents, and soft lighting that creates a warm and inviting ambiance.
Camila and I visited Malagón recently and were impressed with the extensive menu. We started our meal with some olives and bread, which were both delicious. Next up was the Zorza de Cordero, a flavorful lamb dish that was one of the highlights of our meal. We also tried the Almejas en Salsa Verde, a traditional Spanish dish of clams in a green sauce. It was absolutely delicious and a must-try dish at Malagón. We also ordered the Patatas con Alioli, which was a simple but satisfying dish of potatoes with garlic aioli.
The bar is a central feature, stocked with an impressive selection of Spanish wines, sherry, and vermouth.
The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, featuring a selection of Spanish wines that pair perfectly with the food. They also offer carbonated and mineral glass bottled water, which is a nice touch.
For dessert, we indulged in some churros and espressos. The churros were perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the espresso was a great way to end our meal.
In addition to the restaurant, Malagón also has a market that offers Spanish gourmet items like canned seafood, Spanish wine, Spanish cheese, and charcuterie. It’s a great place to stock up on ingredients to make your own Spanish-inspired dishes at home.
Overall, we had a fantastic experience at Malagón. The menu is extensive, the staff is friendly and professional, and the atmosphere is both casual and upscale. It’s the perfect place for a romantic date night or a fun night out with friends. The next time you’re in the mood for a social and flavorful dining experience, consider trying tapas. Indulge in a variety of small plates, savor the rich and diverse flavors, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary culture of Spain.