Melbourne is a city with a diverse culinary scene, and Spanish cuisine is one of the many offerings that can be found throughout the city. From tapas bars to fine dining establishments, there is a range of Spanish restaurants in Melbourne that cater to all tastes and budgets. In this guide, we will take a closer look at some of the best Spanish restaurants in Melbourne, exploring their menus, ambience, and overall dining experience.
1. Movida
Movida is a Melbourne institution, and for good reason. This restaurant has been serving up delicious Spanish food for over a decade, and its popularity shows no sign of waning. The menu is a mix of traditional and modern Spanish dishes, with a focus on tapas-style plates that are perfect for sharing. The ambience is lively and bustling, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.
2. Bar Lourinha
Bar Lourinha is a small, intimate restaurant that serves up some of the best Spanish food in Melbourne. The menu is a mix of traditional and modern dishes, with a focus on seafood and charcuterie. The wine list is also impressive, with a range of Spanish and Australian wines to choose from. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, making it a great spot for a date night or a catch-up with friends.
3. Bomba
Bomba is a Spanish restaurant in Melbourne with a contemporary twist. The menu is a mix of classic and modern Spanish dishes, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The wine list is extensive, with a range of Spanish and Australian wines on offer. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, with an open kitchen adding to the excitement of the dining experience.
4. San Telmo
San Telmo is a steakhouse with a difference. The focus here is on Argentinean cuisine, but with a strong Spanish influence. The menu is meat-heavy, with a range of cuts of beef on offer, as well as other meats like lamb and chicken. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, with a bustling bar area that serves up some of the best cocktails in the city.
5. Portello Rosso
Portello Rosso is a hidden gem in the heart of the city. This small, cosy restaurant serves up some of the best Spanish food in Melbourne, with a focus on traditional dishes like paella and croquettes. The wine list is extensive, with a range of Spanish and Australian wines to choose from. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, making it a great spot for a low-key dinner with friends.
6. Anada
Anada is a Spanish restaurant with a modern twist. The menu is a mix of traditional and modern dishes, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The wine list is extensive, with a range of Spanish and Australian wines on offer. The atmosphere is sophisticated and stylish, making it a great spot for a special occasion.
7. Bar Nacional
Bar Nacional is a bustling Spanish restaurant in the heart of the city. The menu is a mix of classic and modern Spanish dishes, with a focus on share plates and charcuterie. The wine list is impressive, with a range of Spanish and Australian wines to choose from. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.
8. Añada Bar and Restaurant
Añada Bar and Restaurant is a small, cosy restaurant that serves up some of the best Spanish food in Melbourne. The menu is a mix of traditional and modern dishes, with a focus on tapas-style plates that are perfect for sharing. The wine list is impressive, with a range of Spanish and Australian wines on offer. The atmosphere is relaxed and intimate, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a catch-up with friends.
9. Bar Ramblr
Bar Ramblr is a Spanish-inspired bar and restaurant that serves up a range of creative dishes. The menu is a mix of Spanish and Australian flavours, with a focus on share plates and small bites. The drinks list is impressive, with a range of cocktails, wine and beer on offer. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, with an outdoor courtyard that's perfect for summer nights.
10. La Bodega de Andres
La Bodega de Andres is a family-run Spanish restaurant in Melbourne that's been serving up traditional Spanish dishes for over 30 years. The menu is a mix of classic and modern dishes, with a focus on seafood and paella. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with friendly staff and a cosy interior that's perfect for a casual dinner.
11. Simply Spanish
Simply Spanish is a casual restaurant chain that offers a range of Spanish dishes at affordable prices. The menu is a mix of classic and modern dishes, with a focus on paella, empanadas, and churros. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner with friends.
12. La Paella
La Paella is a Spanish restaurant that specialises in paella. The menu offers a range of traditional and modern paella dishes, with a focus on seafood, chicken and vegetarian options. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, with a cosy interior that's perfect for a casual dinner with friends.
13. El Rincon
El Rincon is a family-run Spanish restaurant that offers a range of traditional Spanish dishes. The menu is a mix of classic and modern dishes, with a focus on seafood, meat and vegetarian options. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with friendly staff and a cosy interior that's perfect for a casual dinner.
14. Pintxos
Pintxos is a Spanish tapas bar that offers a range of small bites and share plates. The menu is a mix of traditional and modern dishes, with a focus on seafood, charcuterie and cheese. The drinks list is impressive, with a range of Spanish and Australian wines on offer. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.
15. Barca
Barca is a Spanish restaurant in Melbourne that offers a range of traditional and modern dishes. The menu is a mix of classic and contemporary Spanish dishes, with a focus on seafood and paella. The drinks list is impressive, with a range of Spanish and Australian wines on offer. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner with friends.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Melbourne is home to a range of Spanish restaurants that offer a variety of dining experiences. From traditional tapas bars to contemporary fine dining establishments, there is something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for paella, charcuterie or small bites, these Spanish restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings. So why not gather some friends and explore Melbourne's vibrant Spanish culinary scene?
FAQs:
1. What is the best Spanish restaurant in Melbourne?
This is subjective and depends on personal preferences. However, some of the top Spanish restaurants in Melbourne include Movida, Bar Lourinha, Bomba, and San Telmo.
2. Are there any Spanish restaurants in Melbourne that offer vegetarian options?
Yes, many Spanish restaurants in Melbourne offer vegetarian options, such as El Rincon, La Paella, and Simply Spanish.
3. Can I book a table at a Spanish restaurant in Melbourne?
Yes, most Spanish restaurants in Melbourne offer online booking or you can call to make a reservation.
4. What are some must-try dishes at a Spanish restaurant in Melbourne?
Some popular Spanish dishes include paella, croquetas, patatas bravas, churros, and empanadas. However, it's worth exploring the menus at each restaurant to discover their unique offerings.