The Best Spanish Restaurants in Chicago | Top Tapas, Paella & More

Why Choose Spanish Cuisine?

Spanish cuisine offers an exciting blend of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and time-honored cooking techniques. Known for its rich variety and regional specialties, Spanish food provides an authentic dining experience that spans from rustic tapas to sophisticated seafood dishes. In a city like Chicago, where food culture thrives, Spanish restaurants offer a welcome escape into the world of Mediterranean flavors.

Whether you're a fan of savory paella, delicate seafood, or the small bite-sized delights of tapas, Spanish restaurants in Chicago serve a feast for all the senses. These restaurants embrace the communal nature of Spanish dining, with dishes meant to be shared, making it a great option for groups or casual get-togethers.

Top Spanish Restaurants in Chicago

When it comes to Spanish food in Chicago, there are several outstanding options to consider. Each of these restaurants brings a unique flavor to the city’s diverse dining scene, offering everything from traditional Spanish dishes to modern interpretations of classic recipes. Here are some of the best Spanish restaurants in the city:

Brendalys

Jersey CityHudson CountyNew Jersey

1 Amity St 2nd floor, Jersey City, NJ 07302, USA

1. Café Ba-Ba-Reeba!

Located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! is a popular spot for tapas and Spanish-style small plates. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and extensive menu, the restaurant serves a variety of traditional tapas, including chorizo, patatas bravas, and grilled vegetables. The sangria here is a crowd favorite, making it the perfect place for a casual evening out.

Fiesta Lounge and Restaurant

Bronx CountyNew York

4640 Third Ave, Bronx, NY 10458, USA

2. Mercado la Paloma

Mercado la Paloma offers a more casual yet delicious take on Spanish cuisine, with a strong focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their paella, rich with seafood and saffron, is one of the standout dishes. The restaurant also has a lively outdoor seating area, ideal for enjoying the warm summer months while sipping on a chilled glass of Spanish wine.

3. Las Tablas

Known for its modern take on traditional Spanish cuisine, Las Tablas offers a wide range of tapas, paellas, and charcuterie. This upscale Spanish restaurant in Chicago emphasizes quality ingredients and an extensive wine list, with many options sourced directly from Spain. Its elegant decor and sophisticated atmosphere make it perfect for a special night out.

What to Expect from Spanish Dining

Dining at a Spanish restaurant is an experience meant to engage all your senses. The Spanish dining tradition is rooted in family and community, with meals often served in a series of courses to be shared among diners. Here’s what to expect when you visit a Spanish restaurant:

1. Tapas

Tapas are an essential part of Spanish dining. These small, flavorful dishes are perfect for sharing and offer a wide variety of tastes, from spicy chorizo to salty Manchego cheese. Tapas can be as simple as marinated olives or as complex as slow-cooked beef with spices. Whether you’re in the mood for something light or indulgent, tapas are sure to satisfy.

2. Paella

Paella is one of Spain’s most famous dishes and a must-try when dining at a Spanish restaurant. This rice-based dish is often made with seafood, chicken, and vegetables, all cooked together in a single pan to create a savory, aromatic meal. Paella is often served in large portions, making it perfect for sharing with friends or family.

3. Spanish Wines

No Spanish meal is complete without a glass (or two) of Spanish wine. Spain is home to some of the best wine regions in the world, including Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Priorat. Spanish wine is diverse, offering everything from light and refreshing whites to bold and complex reds. Many Spanish restaurants in Chicago offer a carefully curated wine list, so be sure to ask your server for a recommendation to pair with your meal.

Best Spanish Tapas in Chicago

If you’re a tapas enthusiast, Chicago offers a wide range of Spanish tapas spots where you can sample a variety of small plates. Here are some of the best tapas dishes to try in Chicago:

1. Patatas Bravas

This classic Spanish dish features crispy fried potatoes served with a tangy tomato sauce and aioli. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a favorite among tapas lovers. Many Chicago Spanish restaurants offer their own twist on this dish, adding elements like spicy chorizo or smoked paprika for added flavor.

2. Gambas al Ajillo

For seafood lovers, gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp) is a must-try. Shrimp are sautéed in olive oil with garlic, chili, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that captures the essence of Spanish cuisine.

3. Croquetas

Croquetas are small, breaded and fried snacks typically filled with a creamy mixture of béchamel and meat or seafood. These crispy bites are perfect for snacking or sharing and can be found in many Spanish tapas menus across Chicago.

The Spanish Wine Experience

Pairing wine with your Spanish meal can elevate the entire dining experience. Spanish wines are known for their quality, variety, and complexity, with each region offering unique flavors. Some of the best wines to try include:

1. Rioja

From the Rioja region, this red wine is one of Spain’s most famous. Known for its smooth tannins and flavors of dark fruit and spices, Rioja pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and hearty paella dishes.

2. Albariño

This refreshing white wine from the Rías Baixas region is perfect for pairing with seafood dishes, making it a great match for gambas al ajillo or seafood paella. Its crisp acidity and fruity notes make it a popular choice among wine lovers.

3. Cava

If you’re in the mood for bubbles, Cava is Spain’s answer to Champagne. This sparkling wine is often dry and crisp, making it a great option for pairing with tapas or light appetizers.