Terraza Malabar

Terraza Malabar is an open-air drinks terrace in the Veles e Vents building, the white, horizontal landmark at the entrance to the Marina de València. The building was designed by David Chipperfield with Fermín Vázquez and opened in 2007 for the America's Cup; today it houses several restaurants and terraces, and Malabar is the one built around drinks, music and the sea breeze.

The terrace faces the marina and the water, with lounge furniture, plenty of space to stand or sit and the boats of the port as a backdrop. The setting is the main attraction: it is an easy place to start in daylight and watch the light change over the marina as the evening goes on. Groups can book tables, and private events sometimes take over part of the terrace, so it is worth checking before going on a specific date.

The format is drinks with a DJ or live music, especially in the afternoon and evening sessions. The playlist moves between chill-out, house and commercial hits, and the weekly nights simply carry the day's name, Malabar Jueves, Malabar Viernes and Malabar Sábado, with occasional themed parties such as a Caribbean fiesta. Visitors also mention a Sunday afternoon Cuban party. It is more of a terrace party than a club, so people dance, but many simply stay at their tables.

The crowd is a mix of locals and visitors to the marina, from afterwork groups to friends celebrating with a table, and the atmosphere is relaxed but dressed-up. Smart casual is the right level; beachwear is out of place in the evening. The minimum age is 18.

Opening is seasonal: in spring the terrace usually works on Fridays and Saturdays, and from May into the summer it opens on more days of the week, typically Wednesday or Thursday to Sunday, from late afternoon until late at night. Some nights have entry tickets, usually in the 10 to 20 euro range, and tables with a bottle can be reserved in advance through the Veles e Vents booking page; a table for a group of five has been offered at around 100 euros. Tram lines 6 and 8 serve the marina, and there is parking under the building. Marina Beach Club and the other Veles e Vents venues are next door. Upcoming nights are listed on this page.