12 Best Spanish restaurants in Albany New York
In the heart of Albany, New York, Spanish restaurants are bringing the vibrant flavors and culture of Spain to local food enthusiasts. These culinary gems offer a range of traditional dishes, from paella and tapas to authentic sangria, providing a taste of Spain right in Albany. Whether you're a fan of seafood, meat, or vegetarian options, Spanish restaurants in Albany NY have got you covered.
1. Lo Nuestro Dominican Restaurant
A taste of the Dominican Republic in Albany.

At Lo Nuestro Dominican Restaurant, the service is consistently described as pleasant, friendly, and attentive. The staff members are well-mannered and create a welcoming ambiance for all guests. Their focus on customer satisfaction is evident in the excellent service they provide.
The restaurant is renowned for serving delectable Dominican cuisine that surpasses expectations. Among the must-try dishes are tender ox tails, aromatic yellow rice with beans, hearty pinto beans, perfectly seasoned yucca, mouth-watering pork ribs, and crispy empanadas. Diners are sure to enjoy the rich and authentic flavors of Lo Nuestro Dominican Restaurant.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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2. Barcelona Restaurant-Wine Bar
A taste of Spain in the heart of Albany.

Barcelona Restaurant-Wine Bar offers a delightful dining experience with its delicious food, exceptional service, and inviting ambiance. The servers are courteous, well-informed, and always ready to accommodate guests with dietary restrictions, such as gluten allergies, ensuring a satisfying meal for all.
Among the standout dishes are the mussels, cooked to perfection and served with an array of flavorful vegetables and sauce, and the red snapper, which boasts a delicious taste. With its delicious dishes and accommodating staff, Barcelona Restaurant-Wine Bar is perfect for both a night out on the town or a casual meal.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
3. Moliendo Cafe
Experience the essence of Latin hospitality and camaraderie

This establishment offers delicious food that is sure to satisfy anyone's cravings. The churrasco, in particular, is a must-try, consisting of tender steak served with flavorful rice, crispy french fries, and a refreshing salad. The value for the price is exceptional, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
The service at this restaurant is top-notch, with friendly and welcoming staff who make every diner feel at home. Regular patrons highly recommend the lentil soup special on Thursdays, which is simply divine. Other menu items, such as the chorizo and cheese arepa and beef empanada, are also customer favorites, bursting with flavor and served in generous portions. The sangria is also a hit, perfectly complementing the delicious food. Diners are advised to come hungry, as the portions are huge, and they may find themselves taking home leftovers.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
4. Salsa Latina
A truly local experience with packed flavors

The restaurant experience was truly remarkable. The food was nothing short of delicious, and the service was exceptional. The house enchilada sauce was particularly noteworthy, as it was the best the reviewer had ever tasted. The salsa was also exceptional, so much so that some had to be taken home. The carnitas and tacos were equally delightful, rounding off a fantastic meal.
Over the years, this establishment has been visited multiple times for dinner, but this time, the reviewer decided to try it for lunch. There were noticeable updates to the decor, including new tables and chairs that added a nice touch to the atmosphere. The Chimichanga seafood dish was impressively large and very satisfying, while the lunch #2 option was equally worthwhile. The Tortilla soup stood out as a must-try, with its consistently excellent flavor. Overall, the food was always reliable, making this restaurant a go-to for anyone looking for a great meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
5. Mr Pio Pio
Authentic flavors from Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru.

For those who appreciate South American cuisine, this restaurant is a must-visit. Unlike many Mexican restaurants, it offers a unique and authentic South American dining experience. The food is fresh and made to order, with generous portions that provide great value for the low prices.
The menu features dishes that are gently seasoned, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through. However, for those who enjoy a bit of heat, the homemade hot sauce is a must-try. It adds a flavorful kick without overwhelming the palate. A Cuban friend, familiar with South American cuisine, confirmed the authenticity of the dishes, making this a standout spot for anyone seeking an accurate representation of the region's food.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Dinner
6. El Cambio

TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
7. Encebollados "El Idolo"
A taste of Ecuador in the heart of Albany

Encebollados "El Idolo" in Albany is known for its delicious Ecuadorian cuisine, including their signature encebollado and tigrillo with beef steak. The establishment is owned by a warm and welcoming couple who make customers feel right at home. However, some patrons find the presence of a television in the background to be a slight distraction.
The food at Encebollados "El Idolo" is consistently excellent, with dishes like the Bacon 3 Cheese steak and bacon cheese fries receiving high praise. Customers appreciate the quick and efficient service, making it an ideal spot for a satisfying and enjoyable meal. With its friendly atmosphere and delicious offerings, it's no wonder that Encebollados "El Idolo" has earned a reputation as one of the best places to dine in Albany.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
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8. Sabor a Campo
Delicious and unique dishes with a welcoming atmosphere

The culinary experience at this establishment is truly delightful. The food is skillfully prepared and offers a satisfying balance of flavors, ensuring each bite is a treat for the taste buds. The portions are generous, leaving patrons feeling content and satisfied.
The authentic Puerto Rican dishes served here are a standout, with each item exuding rich and bold flavors. Prices are quite reasonable considering the quality of the food and the generous portion sizes. It's an exceptional dining experience that offers a true taste of Puerto Rico, sure to leave a lasting impression on any food lover.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
9. La Empanada Llama
Delicious Peruvian empanadas and more!

La Empanada Llama in Albany, New York, is a Peruvian restaurant that offers an array of delicious and fresh dishes. Among their most popular items are the empanadas, which come in an assortment of flavors such as chicken and cheese, beef and cheese, chorizo and cabbage, and many more. These handheld pastry pockets are not only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty, with a perfectly flaky crust and flavorful fillings that burst in your mouth.
La Empanada Llama provides customers the option to dine in or take out their meals. Despite its small interior, the restaurant boasts an authentic Peruvian atmosphere with vibrant decor that adds to the overall experience. The friendly staff and efficient service, coupled with the delightful food, make La Empanada Llama a standout spot for those looking to explore Peruvian cuisine.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
10. Impossible Flavors

TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
11. Latinos Cuisine
Experience the vibrant flavors of Latin America.

Nestled in the heart of Sunset Park, Brooklyn, one can find some of the best Spanish food in all of NYC. However, those who find themselves in Saratoga Springs might be disappointed to discover that the options for high-quality Latin American cuisine are scarce, with most of the Mexican food offerings being lackluster at best. That is, until now. During a recent trip to the local mall, I stumbled upon a Latino restaurant that caught my attention with its lively atmosphere and inviting ambiance.
The food at this establishment is nothing short of exceptional, rivaling even the best that NYC has to offer. As a PR and DR, I have developed a keen appreciation for the dynamic energy that often comes hand-in-hand with Latin American culture, and this place does not disappoint. Whether you're looking for well-seasoned and perfectly cooked meat that falls off the bone, or a variety of authentic Dominican dishes, this restaurant has something for everyone. With its friendly service and cozy atmosphere, this is the perfect place to indulge in some of the best Latin American cuisine this side of the Hudson. Highly recommended!
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
12. AAR Fonso Bodega

TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings