The Best Spanish Restaurants in Seattle

• 1- Why Seattle is a Great Place for Spanish Cuisine
• 2- Top Spanish Restaurants in Seattle You Must Visit
• 3- The Best Tapas Spots in Seattle
• 4- Regional Spanish Specialties You Can’t Miss in Seattle
• 5- Dining Story: A Perfect Evening at a Seattle Spanish Restaurant
• 6- Final Tips for Enjoying Spanish Food in Seattle

1- Why Seattle is a Great Place for Spanish Cuisine

Seattle’s rich cultural scene and diverse food offerings make it a perfect city for food lovers of all kinds. Among its many international cuisines, Spanish food holds a special place. From tapas bars offering small bites to upscale restaurants featuring full-course Spanish meals, Seattle has it all. The city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean and its thriving seafood industry also means you’ll find some of the freshest seafood prepared with Spanish flair.

Whether you're craving a cozy dinner of paella or a lively evening with a variety of tapas, Seattle has numerous Spanish restaurants to choose from. Let's dive into some of the top spots in the city where you can enjoy a taste of Spain.

Boqueria Soho

New YorkNew York CountyNew York

171 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, USA

2- Top Spanish Restaurants in Seattle You Must Visit

Seattle offers a variety of Spanish dining experiences, from casual tapas joints to refined dining establishments. Here are some of the top Spanish restaurants in Seattle that stand out for their quality, authenticity, and atmosphere:

Mr Sabor

HoustonHarris CountyTexas

1000 Telephone Rd, Houston, TX 77023, USA

1. El Gaucho

While El Gaucho is known for its excellent steaks, it also offers an impressive Spanish-inspired menu. Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, El Gaucho serves dishes like traditional Spanish tapas and seafood paella. The ambiance here is sophisticated, making it an ideal place for special occasions or a romantic dinner. The impeccable service and high-quality food make El Gaucho a standout in Seattle's Spanish dining scene.

2. Jamón Jamón

Jamón Jamón is a beloved tapas restaurant in Seattle that focuses on offering an authentic Spanish dining experience. Situated in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, this vibrant spot offers a wide range of Spanish small plates, from jamón ibérico to gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp). Their tapas menu is perfect for sharing, allowing guests to sample multiple flavors of Spain in one meal. With its lively atmosphere and delicious food, Jamón Jamón is a must-visit for Spanish food lovers.

3. The Spanish Table

For a more laid-back dining experience, The Spanish Table is a unique spot that combines a Spanish specialty store with a tapas restaurant. Located in the Ballard neighborhood, this restaurant offers a wide selection of wines, cheeses, and cured meats alongside a seasonal tapas menu. It’s a great place to enjoy traditional Spanish tapas while shopping for imported Spanish ingredients to bring home.

4. Boka Kitchen + Bar

Although Boka Kitchen + Bar isn't strictly a Spanish restaurant, their Spanish-inspired dishes have earned them a place on this list. Located in the heart of Seattle, Boka offers contemporary takes on classic Spanish dishes, using local ingredients. The combination of modern design, excellent service, and innovative Spanish cuisine makes Boka a great choice for a fusion dining experience.

3- The Best Tapas Spots in Seattle

If you're a fan of small plates and a social dining experience, Seattle has plenty of tapas spots that bring the flavors of Spain to life. Tapas are perfect for sharing with friends and family, and here are some of the best places to enjoy them:

1. La Isla

Located in Ballard, La Isla is a favorite for its authentic Puerto Rican and Spanish dishes. Their tapas menu offers a variety of options, from savory chorizo to delicate grilled octopus. La Isla’s vibrant atmosphere and delicious small plates make it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy tapas in a lively setting.

2. Manzana Kitchen + Bar

Manzana Kitchen + Bar, located in the downtown area, offers a mix of Spanish and Latin-inspired tapas. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Spanish tortilla or something more adventurous like patatas bravas with a twist, this spot has something for everyone. Manzana also boasts a fantastic wine list to pair perfectly with your tapas meal.

4- Regional Spanish Specialties You Can’t Miss in Seattle

One of the highlights of Spanish cuisine is its regional diversity. While Spanish food is often associated with paella and tapas, each region of Spain has its own distinct flavors and specialties. In Seattle, you can experience many of these regional specialties:

1. Paella

Paella is perhaps Spain’s most famous dish, originating from the region of Valencia. This hearty rice dish, often made with seafood, saffron, and a variety of vegetables, is a must-try when exploring Spanish cuisine in Seattle. Many Spanish restaurants, like El Gaucho and Jamón Jamón, serve up delicious paella that will transport your taste buds straight to Spain.

2. Pulpo a la Gallega

Originating from the Galicia region, pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) is a flavorful dish featuring tender octopus, boiled potatoes, olive oil, paprika, and sea salt. This simple yet delicious dish is often served as a tapa in many Seattle Spanish restaurants, and it’s one of the best ways to enjoy fresh seafood in Spanish style.

3. Jamón Ibérico

No Spanish dining experience is complete without trying jamón ibérico, a high-quality cured ham from Spain. This delicacy can be found in many Seattle restaurants that focus on authentic Spanish flavors, including Jamón Jamón and The Spanish Table. Pairing jamón ibérico with a glass of Spanish wine is the perfect way to start any meal.

5- Dining Story: A Perfect Evening at a Seattle Spanish Restaurant

On a recent evening, I visited Jamón Jamón in Capitol Hill for a dinner with friends. We started with a glass of sangria, accompanied by a platter of jamón ibérico and manchego cheese. The tapas menu offered a range of options, but the highlights were the shrimp ajillo, crispy croquetas, and the patatas bravas. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and the expertly prepared dishes made it an unforgettable night. We ended the meal with flan for dessert, the perfect sweet finish to a delicious experience.

6- Final Tips for Enjoying Spanish Food in Seattle

To make the most of your Spanish dining experience in Seattle, consider the following tips:

• Explore different regions: Spain’s culinary landscape is diverse, so try to sample dishes from various regions, like paella from Valencia or seafood from Galicia.
• Order a variety of tapas: Tapas are meant to be shared, so order a variety to sample different flavors and textures. Don’t forget to pair them with Spanish wine or sherry.
• Ask for recommendations: Spanish restaurant staff are often well-versed in the menu and can help guide you to the best dishes based on your preferences.

If you’re looking for more Spanish food recommendations or the best Spanish ingredients to cook with at home, visit Rubi Spanish Table for expert guidance and quality products.