Where to Get Your Tapas Fix in NYC
Melinda Kauffman / November 16, 2018
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Nothing says a fun night out with friends more than a going to a Spanish tapas restaurant. Tapas – flavor-packed small plates – are the perfect shareable option that give a little taste of traditional Spanish culture. Whether you’re looking for an intimate date night at El Quinto Pino or a vibrant Barcelona experience at Toro, this is your go-to list for where to get your tapas fix in NYC!
Toro
PC: @toro_nycToro began in Boston with co-chef and owners Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette and now Will Malnati. This lively Barcelona style tapas bar offers traditional Spanish fare in the old Nabisco factory in Chelsea. We can’t get enough of their croquetas de bacalao or their huevos con white truffles (aka eggs with truffles). Or, be like us and order one of each! They also offer a “Paella 101” course where you can make your own paella all while sipping on Spanish wine.
Huertas
PC: @mattbruckThis East Village spot embraces the flavors of the Northern Basque Country of Spain. “Pintxos,” or pinchos, are Northern Spain’s take on the tapa. Some of our favorites include the patatas bravas – roasted potatoes with spicy aioli – and the pulpo, which is a Galician-style octopus. If you can’t decide, go with the “Pintxos Me,” a taste of all six pintxos. Bonus: the tip is included here so it’s a great spot to bring a group of friends!
La Vara
PC: @lavaranyThe same duo behind Txikito and El Quinto Pino, chefs Alex Raij and Eder Montero, bring exquisite Spanish cuisine at La Vara in Brooklyn. They serve Spanish tapas with a Moorish and Jewish influence, adding a variety of spices to the mix. We recommend the berenjena con miel – fried eggplant drizzled with honey and cheese – and the cordero al ajo cabañil, or cumin-roasted lamb.
Despaña
PC: @despananycDespaña is a unique spot that began as a chorizo factory in Soho. They have since grown into one of the most known Spanish retailers and wholesalers in the world. A plethora of products directly from small producers in Spain are available at their Tapas Cafe. The paella and traditional tortilla, a Spanish style omelet, are not to be missed.
Cata
PC: @hungryaikoAt Cata, a Lower East Side Spanish tapas bar and restaurant, chef Larry Baldwin puts a contemporary twist on traditional recipes. Go with the razor clams, the chicken croquettes, the gambas al ajillo (shrimp in garlic), and the seafood fideos. Then, order one of their many gin-centric drinks to wash it all down.
El Quinto Pino
PC: @pennydelossantosThe same owners behind La Vara crank out delicious tapas at El Quinto Pino, a Chelsea venue perfect for dates. The tapas bar serves casual small bites while their new dining room at the back of the restaurant, El Comedor, is more spacious. Whether you take a seat at the bar or in the dining room, go with the patatas bravas and the bocadillos.
Boqueria
PC: @hellowithyouBoqueria, a lively tapas bar named after the famous El Mercado de la Boqueria in Barcelona, began in Flatiron in 2006 and has since opened four other locations across the city. Chef Marc Vidal presents some of the best flavors of Spanish cuisine with sharp cheeses and aged jamón. Whether you come for brunch, lunch, or dinner make sure to grab one – or six – of their famous churros con chocolate for dessert.
Donostia
PC: @asphotonycAnother Basque Country influenced spot is Donostia, named after San Sebastian where the famous pintxos are abundant. Located in the East Village just off of Tompkins Square Park, Donostia has traditional pintxos like montaditos, or mini sandwiches, and banderillas, little bites of food with tiny flags.
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