The Spanish actor and director and Hollywood movie star Antonio Banderas is famous not only for his film and theatrical creations. He has also won praise for his support of Malaga, the city of his birth, which benefits greatly from his numerous endeavors.

The latest example – this time on the culinary front — is the highly anticipated opening of his new restaurant, La Pérgola del Mediterráneo.

Located in a picturesque area near the port, the new Banderas restaurant in Malaga will feature a blend of traditional Mediterranean cuisine and an Asian-themed menu for dinners.  In launching this venture, Banderas and his partner, Tercer Acto hotel group, made sure to preserve the location’s historical flavor.  Its iconic semi-circular roof has been restored, and wrought iron chairs on the terrace add to its special ambiance.

Given the reputation of its founders, La Pérgola del Mediterráneo is expected to become a gastronomical hotspot in a city that’s known as a culinary nirvana.

And for those who live in or around Benalmadena, it’s just another reason to feel good about their location: Malaga is indeed a fantastic place to have right next door.