Best Upscale Spanish Restaurants in Chelsea | Upscale Spanish Food

25 restaurants in Best Upscale Spanish Restaurants in Chelsea | Upscale Spanish Food

• Salinas — Spanish · rated 4.7/5: Bathed in the soft glow of a retractable glass roof, this romantic sanctuary transports diners to the Mediterranean coast with the intoxicating aroma of saffron-laced paella and smoky pimentón. Guests lose themselves in a lush, garden-inspired atmosphere where artfully crafted tapas and regional Spanish wines create a sensory journey that feels like a hidden escape to the Balearic Islands.
• Salinas Restaurant — Spanish · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of Chelsea, Salinas Restaurant offers a tantalizing journey through seasonal Spanish fare. Enjoy a chic yet romantic ambiance with colorful Mediterranean cocktails under a retractable roof and charming outdoor seating. With an impressive rating of 4.7 from over 1,400 reviews, Salinas promises an unforgettable dining experience, perfect for date nights or special occasions.
• Boqueria Spanish Tapas — Spanish · rated 4.6/5: Boqueria transports diners to the heart of a bustling Spanish market, where the air hums with the energy of shared laughter and the irresistible aroma of garlic-infused shrimp and smoky chorizo. Sunlight filters through a space defined by rustic textures and communal warmth, inviting guests to linger over vibrant tapas and chilled carafes of sangria that capture the sun-drenched spirit of the Mediterranean.
• Socarrat Paella Bar — Spanish · rated 4.5/5: The air hums with a lively, communal energy as the intoxicating scent of saffron and toasted rice wafts from sizzling wide-brimmed pans. Diners gather around rustic tables to share carafes of sangria and the restaurant’s namesake—the prized, caramelized crust at the bottom of the paella. It is a spirited, sun-drenched experience that celebrates the art of the shared meal, transporting guests to the heart of a festive Spanish feast.
• Coppelia — Spanish · rated 4.5/5: Located at 207 W 14th St, New York, Coppelia is a 24/7 Cuban cafe that offers an extensive menu of delicious eats and drinks in a vibrant, colorful setting. With free street parking and the ability to cater to both dine-in and takeout, it's an ideal spot for any time of the day or night. Enjoy wine, coffee, and delectable desserts among the many options available. Call +1 212-858-5001 to reserve your table.
• Pio Pio Riko — Spanish · rated 4.4/5: Pio Pio Riko invites diners into a vibrant space where the air is thick with the savory aroma of slow-roasted meats and the smoky allure of authentic Spanish spices. Guests gather around rustic tables to share golden-hued paellas and crisp tapas, washing down each bold bite with refreshing carafes of fruit-infused sangria. It is a lively celebration of Iberian soul, where the warmth of the hospitality matches the sun-drenched flavors of every carefully crafted plate.
• Txikito — Spanish · rated 4.4/5: This intimate Chelsea sanctuary captures the soulful spirit of the Basque Country, where warm wood accents and a bustling energy transport guests to the lively taverns of San Sebastián. The air hums with conversation as diners share artfully composed pintxos and salt-cod delicacies, all complemented by the theatrical high-pour of crisp, effervescent Txakoli wine.
• Boqueria Flatiron — Spanish · rated 4.4/5: Boqueria Flatiron, located at 53 W 19th St, New York, is a lively, Barcelona-inspired tapas bar that offers an authentic Spanish dining experience. With a menu featuring Spanish classics, seasonal specials, and an extensive selection of wines and cocktails, this spot has earned an impressive 4.4-star rating from over 1600 reviews. Enjoy happy hour from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM on weekdays, and delight in the cozy outdoor seating. Perfect for groups and those seeking a flavorful tapas journey. Reservations recommended.
• Santiago’s Beer Garden — Spanish · rated 4.4/5: Located in East Harlem, Santiago's Beer Garden combines vibrant Dominican comfort food with a trendy atmosphere. Enjoy popular dishes like stewed oxtail and empanadas in their beautiful indoor or outdoor garden space. With a 4.4-star rating from over 1,200 reviews, patrons appreciate the flavorful meals, refreshing cocktails, and attentive service. Ideal for families, groups, and brunch enthusiasts.
• La Barra at Mercado Little Spain — Spanish · rated 4.4/5: La Barra at Mercado Little Spain, located in the heart of Hudson Yards, New York, offers an authentic Spanish dining experience. With a cozy, charming atmosphere and a menu that features tapas, paella, and pulpo a la Gallega among other regional delights, it's a go-to spot for Spanish cuisine enthusiasts. Enjoy their extensive wine and sangria selection, delectable desserts, and attentive service, making it a perfect destination for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
• Aldea — Spanish · rated 4.3/5: Aldea captures the soulful essence of a Spanish village, inviting guests into a warm, sun-drenched space where the aroma of smoked pimentón and sizzling garlic drifts from a lively open kitchen. The kitchen weaves a tapestry of bold Iberian flavors through vibrant plates of charred seafood and rich, saffron-infused rice, creating a communal sanctuary that celebrates the effortless elegance and timeless warmth of Mediterranean dining.
• Spain Restaurant — Spanish · rated 4.2/5: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the air is thick with the scent of smoky pimentón and slow-simmering saffron, evoking the spirited energy of a bustling Madrid tasca. From the rhythmic sizzle of garlic shrimp in cast-iron pans to the communal joy of a golden-crusted paella, every dish celebrates the bold, sun-soaked flavors of the Mediterranean. The experience is anchored by the lively hum of conversation and the clinking of sangria glasses, offering an authentic escape into the heart of Spanish hospitality.
• Cafe Nunez — Spanish · rated 4.2/5: Cafe Nunez, nestled in Midtown South's Garment District, is a trendy Latin American restaurant and bar offering all-you-can-eat comfort food with vegetarian and vegan options. Signature dishes include chicken mofongo, ceviche, and tostones. With a vibrant nightlife featuring live music, DJ sets, and dancing, it’s the perfect spot for dining and entertainment. Excellent for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with a highly rated happy hour. For reservations, call +1 212-564-7444.
• Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Union Square — Spanish · rated 4.2/5: Welcome to Sophie's Cuban Cuisine, located at 28 E 12th St, New York. This relaxed counter-serve spot in Union Square offers an array of traditional Cuban dishes, complemented by selected Peruvian entrees. Known for its flavorful offerings like oxtail stew and mini guava/cheese empanadas, Sophie's is perfect for takeout and delivery. Enjoy the friendly service and convenient online ordering options. Open Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 4 PM.
• El Quijote — Spanish · rated 4.1/5: Nestled within the historic Hotel Chelsea, El Quijote has been serving exceptional Spanish cuisine for over a century. Renowned for its delectable tapas, flavorful paellas, and refreshing sangrias, this romantic venue boasts a lively bar and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're stopping by for a drink or a meal, El Quijote offers a memorable dining experience complete with a full bar and an impressive selection of Spanish wines and sherries. Reservations are highly recommended.
• Boqueria Spanish Tapas — Spanish · rated 4/5: Boqueria Spanish Tapas transports guests to the heart of a bustling Barcelona market, where the air is rich with the savory aroma of blistered Padrón peppers and the delicate saltiness of acorn-fed Ibérico hams. Friends gather around rustic tables to share artisanal boards overflowing with nutty aged Manchego and velvety truffle goat cheese, creating a spirited, communal dining experience that celebrates the bold and authentic flavors of Spain.
• Bathtub Gin — American · rated 4/5: Step back into the clandestine glamour of the Prohibition era at this sultry speakeasy, where dim lighting and plush textures create an intimate sanctuary for secret rendezvous and spirited conversation. The air hums with jazz-age energy as bartenders masterfully shake up inventive libations like the botanical Gin Mill Gimlet and the decadent S'mores Old-Fashioned, each served with a theatrical flair that honors the art of the craft cocktail. Whether sipping a crisp Silver Screen Martini or sharing a vibrant carafe of sangria, guests are transported to a bygone age of refined revelry and hidden indulgence.
• Mercado Little Spain — Spanish · rated 4/5: Step into a vibrant, sprawling tribute to Spanish culture where the air is thick with the aroma of saffron-infused paella and the rhythmic sound of knives slicing through salt-cured Ibérico ham. From the golden crunch of creamy croquettes to the smoky char of wood-fired Txuleton ribeye, this bustling culinary playground invites guests to linger over communal plates and capture the spirited energy of a true Iberian marketplace.
• Spanish Diner at Mercado Little Spain — Spanish · rated 4/5: Part of Mercado Little Spain, Spanish Diner offers a broad array of delicious Spanish tapas in an open and lively space. Located at 435 W 30th St, New York, it’s perfect for families and those who enjoy a casual yet vibrant dining atmosphere. With seating options both indoors and on the patio, the diner serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, accompanied by a selection of fine wines, beers, and cocktails. Don't forget to try the delightful desserts!
• Leña at Mercado Little Spain — Spanish · rated 3.9/5: Nestled in the heart of Hudson Yards, Leña at Mercado Little Spain is a trendy Spanish restaurant that highlights the flavors of grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables. Known for its cozy ambiance, it offers a menu cooked over embers featuring popular dishes like paella, the txule-burger, and Iberico pork. With a bar and offerings for lunch and dinner, diners frequently commend the quick, friendly service and inviting vibe. Perfect for enthusiasts of Spanish cuisine, it's an excellent spot to immerse in authentic flavors.
• Txikito — Spanish: This intimate Chelsea sanctuary transports diners to the soul of the Basque Country, where warm wood accents and a buzzing energy mirror the spirited pintxos bars of San Sebastián. The kitchen celebrates the rugged beauty of Northern Spain through artfully composed plates, from the delicate snap of salt-kissed seafood to the deep, smoky richness of slow-cooked meats. Every meal becomes a communal celebration of tradition, punctuated by the rhythmic pour of effervescent cider and the lingering warmth of a perfectly charred Basque cheesecake.
• Socarrat Paella Bar — Spanish: Vibrant energy fills this communal-style Spanish haven, where the rhythmic scraping of spoons against cast-iron pans provides a lively soundtrack to an evening of shared discovery. Saffron-scented steam rises from massive paellas brimming with succulent seafood and tender meats, all anchored by the restaurant’s namesake—the prized, caramelized crust that forms a golden layer of crunch at the bottom of every dish. It is a place where the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality meets a bustling urban pulse, inviting guests to linger over glasses of sangria and plates of artisanal tapas in a celebration of bold, rustic flavors.
• Temerarion — Spanish: Temerarion invites diners into a world of bold culinary exploration, where flickering candlelight dances across dark velvet accents and the air hums with a sophisticated, high-energy pulse. The kitchen embraces a daring spirit, transforming seasonal ingredients into vibrant, artfully plated dishes that balance intense, wood-fired flavors with unexpected textures. It is a sanctuary for the adventurous palate, where every shared plate and curated vintage feels like a celebrated discovery in an intimate, timeless setting.
• Salinas — Spanish: This romantic Chelsea sanctuary transports guests to the sun-drenched Balearic Islands, where rustic stone walls and plush blue velvet accents meet a lush garden patio tucked beneath a retractable glass roof. The air is thick with the aroma of saffron-scented paellas and crackling suckling pig, offering a transportive dining experience that captures the soulful, coastal elegance of Mediterranean Spain.
• Aldea — Spanish: This sophisticated sanctuary transports diners to the Iberian coast, where the rhythmic energy of an open kitchen meets a sleek, light-filled space inspired by the spirit of a Portuguese village. Shimmering displays of fresh shellfish and the deep, earthy aroma of slow-simmered duck rice anchor a dining experience that balances rustic tradition with avant-garde artistry. Every plate is a masterclass in texture and precision, offering a refined yet soulful journey through the sun-drenched flavors of the Atlantic.