25 most favorite Tapas Restaurants in New York City
Tapas Restaurants in New York City offer a taste of Spain in the heart of the Big Apple. These restaurants showcase a variety of small plates, perfect for sharing and trying new dishes. From authentic paella to traditional tortilla, Tapas Restaurants in New York City bring the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Spain to your table. Experience the joy of tapas dining at these must-visit hotspots in New York City.
- 1. Boqueria Flatiron
- 2. Boqueria UES
- 3. Boqueria Soho
- 4. La Nacional
- 5. Despaña
- 6. Tía Pol
- 7. Salinas Restaurant
- 8. Tomiño Taberna Gallega
- 9. Casa Mono
- 10. Boqueria W40th
- 11. Bar Jamon
- 12. Mercado Little Spain
- 13. Alta
- 14. El Born
- 15. Ernesto's
- 16. Lost in Paradise Rooftop
- 17. Plado Tasting Bar
- 18. Debajo
- 19. La Vara
- 20. Pil Pil
- 21. Nai
- 22. Txikito
- 23. Las Ramblas
- 24. Bazár Tapas Bar & Restaurant
- 25. Lamano West Village
1. Boqueria Flatiron
Luxury apartments in a historic building with premium services

This lively tapas bar, reminiscent of Barcelona's style, is situated near Manhattan's Flatiron Building and Union Square. The establishment offers a range of Spanish favorites, seasonal specials, and creative cocktails in a modern setting. Its versatile menu caters to various occasions – from a shared meal of small plates for a group, after-work drinks with colleagues, to a romantic date night or a weekend brunch.
The bar's drink selection has garnered positive reviews; patrons commend their high quality and diverse offerings. The food, generally, receives favorable feedback with popular dishes being seafood paella and lamb skewers. However, some diners have noted instances of food being served cold or dishes lacking flavor. Overall, the establishment aims to provide a charming experience with its energetic atmosphere, an extensive menu, and carefully crafted cocktails.
2. Boqueria UES
Authentic European market experience in New York City

This establishment is a vivacious tapas bar, inspired by the culture and cuisine of Barcelona. They offer a variety of Spanish classics and seasonal specials, accompanied by a selection of curated cocktails. The atmosphere is modern and lively, making it a popular spot for those seeking a fun and delicious dining experience.
There are a few areas for improvement. For instance, the torta espagnola could be served warm to enhance its flavor and texture. Additionally, some customers may appreciate more generous portions of churros, as the current serving size may leave some diners wanting more. Despite these minor issues, the tapas bar remains a great option for those craving Spanish cuisine in a vibrant setting.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
3. Boqueria Soho
High-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations

The price of food and drinks at this establishment is considered high, with a total cost of $118 for two drinks, three appetizers, and one paella. Some customers believe that the portions are small relative to the cost. However, the culinary experience is delightful, and the service has exceeded expectations. The waitstaff skillfully balances humor and efficiency, while the kitchen team performs well. This venue is more suitable for leisurely conversations over small dishes and beverages.
Despite high costs, totaling $118 for two drinks, three appetizers, and one paella, and some complaints of small portions, the food and drink offerings are a delight. The service is a highlight, with waitstaff skillfully balancing humor and efficiency. The kitchen team also performs well. This establishment is ideal for customers seeking a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy small dishes and beverages during leisurely conversations.
4. La Nacional
Long-standing restaurant established in 1902, offering a unique cultural and historical dining experience

The service provided at this establishment is highly regarded by customers, with many praising the staff for their friendliness and exceptional service. The accommodating nature of the staff has been mentioned frequently in positive reviews.
The food at this establishment received mixed reviews. Some customers found the dishes to have excellent flavors and enjoyed the seafood and pasta options. However, other reviewers were not as impressed and mentioned that the food was lacking in taste and seasoning. Additionally, there were comments about food being served out of time.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
5. Despaña
Authentic Spanish gourmet food and gift store

Despaña is a Spanish-style deli and market that offers a variety of delicious food options, including pinxos, tostas, and croquetas. They have an excellent selection of wines by the glass, making it a great spot to grab a light lunch or snack paired with a drink. The service is delightful and efficient, but the ventilation could use some improvement. After waiting in line to order and pay, the smell of cooking oil and food can linger on your clothes for the rest of the day.
Despaña is a convenient location for those looking to pick up lunch to go, whether you're heading back to the office or enjoying it in Lt. Petrosino Square around the corner. Their Bocadillos and Pintxos are particularly noteworthy, but be prepared for the possibility of leaving with clothing that smells of cooking oil and food. Despite this minor issue, Despaña's delicious food and efficient service make it a worthwhile destination for Spanish cuisine in the area.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
6. Tía Pol
Offers a truly Spanish culinary experience in the heart of New York City

Tia Pol is a fantastic tapas restaurant that offers a wide variety of delicious small plates. The salad with fried artichokes, shrimp, squid, jamon, anchovies, and sardines is a must-try, as every dish on the menu is excellent. The wine list at Tia Pol is also impressive, making it the perfect place to enjoy a glass or two with your meal.
Tia Pol is an ideal location for a first or early date, providing a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. With a extensive wine list and tasty sangria, a couple of drinks here are sure to help take the edge off and get the conversation flowing freely. Sharing quality small plates is a great way to connect and enjoy each other's company, making Tia Pol an excellent spot for an infatuation first/early date.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
7. Salinas Restaurant
Brings a taste of Spanish coast to NYC

Salinas offers a range of both traditional and innovative tapas. Two standout dishes are the crispy artichoke hearts and the grilled eggplant. Both are delicious and sure to please.
The grilled eggplant and crispy artichoke hearts at Salinas are not to be missed. Additionally, the seaweed dish was also enjoyed by diners. Overall, the tapas at Salinas are a hit.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
8. Tomiño Taberna Gallega
One of the few Galician restaurants in New York City

Tomiño offers a delightful dining experience, featuring exceptional Galician cuisine. The standout dish was the pulpo, or octopus, which was so delicious that we ordered a second helping. The desserts also left a positive impression. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, despite being crowded, we were able to comfortably carry on conversations. The service was commendable, making our visit enjoyable and memorable. Based on our experience, I highly recommend Tomiño for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Galicia.
Tomiño caters to various dining preferences, with ample large tables for group gatherings and an extensive tapas menu. This makes it an ideal location for social outings and dates, perfect for enjoying several glasses of wine. Among the recommended dishes are the seafood and meat options, as well as those that feature fresh, raw tomatoes. Tomiño successfully combines a vibrant atmosphere with a wide-ranging menu, solidifying its reputation as a go-to destination for Galician food lovers.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
9. Casa Mono
James Beard Award-winning restaurant from chef Danny Meyer

A memorable pan con tomate experience 10 years ago set high standards for Spanish restaurants. Many establishments in town offer average versions of this dish. However, Casa Mono, a tapas bar restaurant, and its sister restaurant, Bar Jamon, exceed expectations. Casa Mono, located on Irving Place and 17th Street near Union Square, has earned three stars from The New York Times and a Michelin Star since 2009.
These awards are a testament to Casa Mono's culinary prowess, inspired by Spain's Costa Brava. The menu features an array of delightful dishes, but Casa Mono is especially known for its pan con tomate. With ingredients including fresh tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and grilled bread, the pan con tomate is a simple yet flavorful dish that defines the authentic Spanish culinary experience.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
10. Boqueria W40th
A vibrant and authentic European-style market experience in the heart of New York City

The restaurant offers delicious food and excellent management. The anchovies were a standout, featuring a mild flavor and complemented by a delightful lemon sauce. The grilled octopus was cooked to perfection, while the paella was one of the best versions tried outside of Spain.
This establishment boasts a fantastic staff, committed to ensuring an enjoyable experience for all guests. The menu is filled with numerous excellent choices, making it a place that should not be missed. The food, particularly the anchovies, octopus, and paella, make it a destination worth visiting.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
11. Bar Jamon
Exclusive selection of artisanal Spanish products in the heart of New York City

The food at this establishment is exceptional, with a focus on Spanish small plates that are sure to delight. The wine list is also impressive, providing a wide range of options to complement the delicious dishes. However, it is important to note that this restaurant comes with a higher price tag, and it can get quite crowded, with twenty diners filling the space.
Our server, Isaias, added significantly to our dining experience, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the meal. Despite the full house, the restaurant managed to maintain a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. However, potential diners should be prepared for the cost and popularity of the restaurant, as a full house is quite common. The food and wine alone are worth the visit, making for a memorable and enjoyable meal.
12. Mercado Little Spain
Celebrity chef José Andrés brings the vibrant flavors and culture of Spain to New York City

Most reviewers describe the service at the restaurant as good, with staff who are friendly, quick, and attentive. However, a few reviewers have noted that the service can be slow or not very attentive at times.
The food at the restaurant is highly regarded, with many reviewers praising its authenticity, delicious flavor, and high quality. The menu features a wide variety of options from all regions of Spain. Despite the positive comments, some reviewers believe that the price point for the high-end food does not align with the decor and ambiance of the restaurant.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
- Dinner
13. Alta
Known for their homemade pasta and romantic setting

The restaurant in question is a terrific dining establishment, known for the exceptional quality of its food and the overall positive dining experience it offers. One dish that stands out in particular is the goat cheese, which is absolutely delicious and a major draw for many visitors.
During a recent trip to New York, I had the pleasure of dining at this restaurant on my first night. The food was a definite highlight of the experience, with several dishes standing out as particular favorites. Among these were the fried goat cheese balls, which were served with lavender-infused honey and proved to be a truly delightful combination of flavors. The lamb meatballs were another standout dish, showcasing the restaurant's expertise in cooking high-quality meat.
14. El Born
Once a center of industry, now a hub for creativity and innovation

The Spanish Tapas served at this establishment are delicious and constitute an excellent value, particularly during Tapas Tuesday. The traditional tapas on offer include a range of tasty options, and the red sangria is a delightful accompaniment. The quality of the food, drinks, and service ensures a memorable dining experience.
Visitors can enjoy a pleasant ambiance with clean and simple decor, further enhanced by the excellent service. The food and drinks are equally impressive, making for a great dining experience. The reviewer highly recommends a return visit to savor these delicious tapas and sangria again.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
15. Ernesto's
Known for their homemade masa and hand-pressed tortillas

Ernesto's in NYC provides a fine dining experience with a Spanish-Basque influence, but the food is overpriced. A dinner for two can easily exceed $350, and portion sizes are difficult to estimate, making it challenging for customers to order the right amount of food. The server encouraged the author to order more food, resulting in excessive leftovers.
Despite the high prices and wasted food, Ernesto's offers a nice atmosphere and some tasty dishes. The smaller dishes, like Paleta Iberico Con Patatas Chips, are recommended over the larger ones. However, the Bacalao En Salsa Vizcaina was too salty to eat. The food isn't particularly interesting or exciting, and the portions are disappointingly large, making it difficult to try a variety of dishes. Overall, Ernesto's offers a mediocre fine dining experience at an exorbitant price.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
16. Lost in Paradise Rooftop
A lively rooftop bar with a vibrant atmosphere and a view of the Manhattan skyline

The view from the establishment was breathtaking, providing a memorable setting for my first time having brunch there. Although there was a wait for a table, the high-quality hookah and delicious food made it worth the time.
I am compelled to write this review based on two exceptional aspects. First, the food stands out as excellent, offering a satisfying meal. Second, the staff members are commendably friendly, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience. The stunning view is an added bonus that should not be overlooked.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Rooftop
- Late Night
17. Plado Tasting Bar
Exclusive wine and beer pairings with cheese flights

Plado is a unique restaurant located in the East Village, offering a Mediterranean-influenced dining experience. The restaurant specializes in small tasting plates and tapas-style dishes, which are prepared in an open kitchen using seasonal products and inspired Mediterranean cuisine. Plado is known for its extensive food options, great wine, and excellent service.
The ambiance at Plado is warm and inviting, with friendly patrons and knowledgeable bartenders. Whether you're in the mood to chat or prefer a quieter dining experience, Plado has something to offer. The restaurant's extensive menu includes options for every palate, making it an excellent choice for groups or solo dining. With its focus on quality ingredients and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, Plado is a must-visit destination for food lovers in the East Village.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
18. Debajo

Debajo is a restaurant that offers delicious tapas and creative cocktails in a warm and cozy atmosphere. The menu features a variety of dishes, with some standout options being the shrimp, octopus with black rice, steak, and patatas bravas.
Other popular dishes at Debajo include calamari, Brussels sprouts, shishito peppers, salmon, red shrimp, and scallops. In addition to their tapas options, the restaurant also offers tasty cocktails that pair well with the food and create a complete dining experience. Whether you're looking for a place to enjoy a casual meal or celebrate a special occasion, Debajo is an excellent choice.
19. La Vara
Offers a unique and authentic taste of Spanish cuisine

La Vara, located in Cobble Hill, is a highly regarded restaurant known for its charming atmosphere and delicious fusion of Spanish and Middle Eastern cuisine. The menu features standout dishes such as Cantabrian anchovies with salted dukkah butter and salchichón with fried artichoke hearts, ibérico de bellota sausage, anchovy aioli, and grana padano. The Front section of the restaurant offers comfortable seating, and the knowledgeable staff provides excellent wine recommendations to accompany your meal.
During a recent visit to La Vara, the food was a definite highlight, with favorites including fideo, chickory salad, deviled eggs, and anchovies. The noise level was kept to a minimum, creating a pleasant dining experience. Service was attentive, and recommendations for unique, reasonably priced wines were appreciated. With its delightful ambiance and top-notch offerings, La Vara has secured a spot on the list for future visits.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
20. Pil Pil
Family-owned and operated with a strong commitment to traditional Spanish cuisine

Pil Pil, a tapas and wine establishment, is located in the Upper East Side area and offers a nice atmosphere for guests. The restaurant has a diverse wine selection and a wide variety of dishes to choose from. One standout aspect of Pil Pil is their delicious food, which is comparable to or even better than the tapas found in Spain. The establishment has become a popular spot for those seeking an authentic Spanish culinary experience.
The restaurant's culinary offerings are highly recommended, as they live up to the expectations of traditional Spanish tapas. Frequent travelers to Spain have praised Pil Pil's tapas as being just as good as, if not better than, those served in the country's own establishments. With a strong reputation for serving up high-quality tapas, Pil Pil continues to attract customers seeking an authentic Spanish dining experience.
21. Nai
Known for their authentic Thai flavors and spices

Nai, a restaurant offering a unique understanding of Spanish cuisine, presents an innovative tapas menu by Chef Ruben Rodriguez. Guests are invited to explore the authentic flavors of Spain through a variety of delicious small plates. The menu is complemented by fantastic staff, brilliant happy hour deals, and exciting flamenco shows.
Located in a prime location, Nai is the perfect spot for food lovers looking for great food at amazing prices. The restaurant offers a fantastic tapas menu, captivating flamenco performances, and exceptional happy hour specials. With such an ideal combination, Nai is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable Spanish dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
22. Txikito
A taste of Spain in the heart of New York City

Four stars were awarded to the restaurant, with a slight critique that the servers come across as a bit self-important and overly proud. The food, however, is exceptional, though the small tapas plates are priced on the higher side. The presentation of the dishes showcases great thought and care in combining ingredients to create delicious and tasteful meals.
Four friends came together for a special evening of outdoor dining, enjoying a fine selection of tapas meant for sharing and an extensive list of wines primarily from Spain. The service was commendable, marked by warmth and attentiveness towards the customers. The food served was very good, making the dining experience recommended for others.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
23. Las Ramblas
Historic recreation of a popular Barcelona landmark

A delightful local tapas bar, while small and cozy, offers an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant is well-known for its delicious tapas and refreshing sangria. The menu features a variety of options, but there are a few standout dishes.
The duck sausage on a skewer with quail eggs is a must-try, as well as the shrimp in garlic sauce and the grilled sardines. Each dish is skillfully prepared, bursting with flavor and sure to satisfy. Whether you're a fan of tapas or looking to try something new, this neighborhood gem is definitely worth a visit.
In summary, this charming tapas bar may be small, but it packs a big punch when it comes to flavor and quality. With a menu full of tasty options and a cozy atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a date night. So if you're in the mood for some delicious duck sausage, shrimp in garlic sauce, or grilled sardines, be sure to check out this local favorite.
24. Bazár Tapas Bar & Restaurant
Offers a diverse range of vegetarian and gluten-free options

Our restaurant is known for its fusion of classic and modern styles, with a focus on providing high-quality fine-dining experiences. Our tapas menu features a range of dishes that combine traditional Spanish flavors with contemporary twists, such as Patatas Bravas, Octopus, Gambas Ajillo, Lobster Mac & Cheese, Filet Mignon, Asparagus, and Brussel Sprouts.
The food at our restaurant has received much praise for its taste, presentation, and variety. Seafood lovers will be delighted to find fresh options, including standout dishes such as steak bites, octopus, bone marrow, crab cakes, and scallops. Additionally, our menu includes other popular items like chicharon, patatas bravas, and brussel sprouts, offering something for everyone.
25. Lamano West Village
A popular spot for after-work drinks and weekend nights out

A new establishment has recently opened on Christopher Street, and as a local resident, I've been keeping a close eye on it. The restaurant, Lamano, has a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with a variety of seating options including large and small tables, bar seating, and window seats. The food served at Lamano is truly delicious, featuring dishes such as grilled octopus with potatoes, spicy shrimp, and flavorful olives. The cava sangria is also a must-try.
One notable aspect of Lamano is that all of the cooking is done behind the bar, resulting in a warm and fragrant atmosphere no matter where you sit. While the space is on the smaller side, reminiscent of a studio apartment, it adds to the intimate and casual ambiance, making it a great spot for dates. However, it's worth noting that the prices are slightly higher than some other tapas restaurants in the West Village.