Top 10 Spanish Restaurants in NYC
Hey there, it’s Emily Johnson and I’m excited to share with you my list of the top 10 Spanish restaurants in NYC! I’ve personally tried and tested all of these restaurants, so you can trust that they’re all worth a visit. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your craving for delicious Spanish cuisine. Let’s dive in!
Curiosities, Statistics, and Facts
- New York City is home to over 2 million Hispanic people, making it the largest Hispanic city in the United States.
- NYC has a thriving Spanish restaurant scene, with over 1000 Spanish restaurants in the city.
- The Spanish cuisine in NYC is heavily influenced by traditional Spanish dishes, as well as Latin American and Caribbean flavors.
- The top 10 Spanish restaurants in NYC were chosen based on personal experiences, expert opinions, and customer reviews.
1. Casa Mono
Casa Mono, located in Gramercy, is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Spanish cuisine. The restaurant is known for its delicious tapas, such as the patatas bravas and the grilled octopus. The wine list is also impressive, with a wide selection of Spanish wines to choose from. I personally love coming here on a weeknight for a casual dinner with friends.
2. Boqueria
Boqueria has multiple locations throughout NYC, but my favorite is the one in SoHo. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and serves up some of the best paella in the city. The croquetas are also a must-try. If you’re looking for a fun night out with friends, Boqueria is the perfect spot.
3. El Quinto Pino
El Quinto Pino is a cozy little spot in Chelsea that serves up some of the most delicious Spanish sandwiches in the city. The uni panini is a must-try, as well as the crispy squid sandwich. The restaurant also has a great selection of Spanish wines and sherries. I love coming here for a quick lunch during the workweek.
4. Txikito
Txikito, located in Chelsea, is a Basque-style restaurant that serves up some of the most flavorful dishes in the city. The pintxos, or small snacks, are a must-try, as well as the grilled octopus and the chorizo-stuffed squid. The restaurant also has a great selection of Basque wines and ciders. I recently celebrated my birthday here and it was a night to remember.
5. La Vara
La Vara, located in Cobble Hill, serves up some of the most innovative Spanish cuisine in the city. The restaurant is known for its Jewish-Spanish fusion dishes, such as the matzo ball soup with chickpeas and the lamb meatballs with tomato jam. The wine list is also impressive, with a focus on Spanish wines from lesser-known regions. I love coming here for a special occasion.
6. Tia Pol
Tia Pol is a cozy little spot in Chelsea that serves up some of the best traditional Spanish tapas in the city. The patatas bravas and the tortilla española are a must-try, as well as the churros for dessert. The restaurant also has a great selection of Spanish sherries. I love coming here for a date night with my significant other.
7. Despaña
Despaña is a Spanish market and restaurant located in SoHo. The market sells a variety of Spanish products, such as meats, cheeses, and wines. The restaurant serves up some of the best sandwiches in the city, as well as traditional Spanish dishes like paella and tortilla española. I love coming here for a quick bite to eat before shopping in SoHo.
8. Salinas
Salinas, located in Chelsea, is a beautiful restaurant that serves up some of the most flavorful Spanish dishes in the city. The roasted suckling pig and the black rice with squid and artichokes are a must-try, as well as the extensive wine list. The restaurant also has a lovely outdoor garden, perfect for dining al fresco in the summer. I recently came here for a romantic dinner with my partner and it did not disappoint.
9. Casa Enrique
Casa Enrique, located in Long Island City, is a hidden gem that serves up some of the best Mexican-Spanish cuisine in the city. The ceviche and the mole poblano are a must-try, as well as the margaritas. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. I love coming here for a weekend brunch with friends.
10. La Nacional
La Nacional, located in the West Village, is a historic Spanish restaurant that has been around since 1927. The restaurant serves up traditional Spanish dishes, such as paella and gambas al ajillo, as well as a variety of tapas. The wine list is also impressive, with a wide selection of Spanish wines to choose from. I love coming here for a taste of old-school New York City.
FAQs
Q: Are these restaurants expensive?
A: The prices at these restaurants vary, but they’re all reasonably priced for the quality of food and service you’ll receive. You can expect to spend around $40-50 per person, depending on what you order.
Q: Do I need to make a reservation?
A: It’s always a good idea to make a reservation, especially on weekends and holidays. Some of these restaurants are quite popular and can get busy, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Q: Are these restaurants kid-friendly?
A: Some of these restaurants are more kid-friendly than others. Casa Mono, Boqueria, and Tia Pol are all good options for families with children. However, some of the other restaurants may not be as kid-friendly due to the more upscale atmosphere.
Q: Do these restaurants offer vegetarian/vegan options?
A: Yes, most of these restaurants offer vegetarian and/or vegan options. Be sure to ask your server for recommendations.
Q: Can I bring my own wine?
A: It depends on the restaurant. Some of these restaurants may have a corkage fee, while others may not allow outside wine at all. Be sure to check with the restaurant beforehand.
Q: Are these restaurants wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, all of these restaurants are wheelchair accessible.
That’s it for my list of the top 10 Spanish restaurants in NYC! I hope you found it helpful and informative. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional tapas or innovative fusion dishes, these restaurants have something for everyone. Buen provecho!