Seven Spanish Spots in NYC That’ll Make You Feel Like You’re in Madrid
After a February trip back to Spain—where I lived on exchange years ago—I found myself craving the simple, bold flavors of the country: pan con tomate, gambas al ajillo, jamón ibérico. Back in New York, buried under winter coats and gray skies, I decided to chase that sunshine through the city’s Spanish restaurants. Luckily, there’s no shortage of places that deliver the real thing. Here are seven spots that bring a bit of Iberian warmth to your table.
In Cobble Hill, La Vara blends Jewish and Moorish influences from Southern Spain. The crispy chickpeas and blistered peppers are perfect starters, but the octopus carpaccio is the standout—a refreshing change from the usual grilled or boiled versions. The slow-roasted suckling pig with chimichurri is a must: impossibly tender, with crackling skin that shatters at the touch.
At Casa Mono in Gramercy Park, the Michelin-starred tapas bar has been a fixture since 2003. Order the pork sobrassada with honeycomb and membrillo for a smoky-sweet smear on bread. The bone marrow, topped with smoked trout roe and everything bagel seasoning, is pure New York meets Spain. And the confit goat with avocado queso is a steal.
For a casual hang, head to El Born in Greenpoint. Their happy hour runs weekdays from 4 to 6 p.m., with drinks starting at $6 and tapas as low as $5. Tuesdays offer bottomless tapas for two hours at $19. The $42 family-style brunch includes four tapas, two entrees or a paella, and pitchers of sangria or mimosas.
Ernesto’s on the Lower East Side serves Basque cuisine from San Sebastián. Skip the tapas and go for pintxos like anchovy toast and gildas. The sliced Iberico atop house-made potato chips is a winner, and the bikini Hemingway—a grilled cheese with shrimp and chistorra—is a must. End with the decadent Basque cheesecake.
Tia Pol in Chelsea has been a neighborhood staple since 2004. Grab marcona almonds, sardine skewers, and a glass of cava for happy hour. For brunch, try the bocadillo of the day or Spanish tortilla with a crispy artichoke salad. Dinner is all about the cheese plate and a few tapas shared with friends.
Tomino in Little Italy brings Galician seafood to the forefront. The pulpo á feira—boiled octopus with olive oil, paprika, and sea salt—is perfection. The mixed seafood platter, with scallops, langoustines, and jumbo red prawns, balances smoke and sea. Pair it with the pan con tomate and patatas bravas.
Finally, La Nacional in the West Village is the oldest Spanish cultural institution in the country, with over 150 years of history. The classic tapas—croquettes, Spanish tortilla, shrimp and garlic—are reasonably priced. The paella, especially the seafood and squid ink versions, is among the best in town. They also host flamenco nights and fútbol watch parties, making it a true community spot.