Best Upscale Spanish Restaurants in Union Square | Upscale Spanish Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Spanish Restaurants in Union Square | Upscale Spanish Food

• Bar Jamón — Spanish · rated 5/5: Stepping into this intimate, wood-clad enclave feels like discovering a hidden corner of Madrid, where the rhythmic slicing of prized Pata Negra sets the tempo for an evening of spirited conversation. Small plates celebrate the bold simplicity of the Iberian Peninsula, from the crunch of tomato-rubbed bread and golden salt-cod croquetas to the smoky char of octopus seared on the plancha. It is a vibrant sanctuary where guests linger over chilled glasses of sherry and delicate crudos, savoring a communal dining experience that captures the soulful essence of a traditional tapas crawl.
• Classic Arepas — Spanish · rated 4.7/5: Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, Classic Arepas is a cozy gem offering authentic Venezuelan comfort food. From tequeños and cachapas to arepas and empanadas, the menu is a delight for both kids and solo diners. Fast, friendly service and a charming venue make this a must-visit spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a late-night bite. Don't miss their shop for Venezuelan treats! Prices range from $10-20, making it a great value for a taste of Venezuela.
• 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.
• Reyna New York — Mediterranean · rated 4.6/5: Reyna New York is an intimate Mediterranean restaurant and cocktail bar in Greenwich Village. It offers a stylish and cozy setting perfect for enjoying Mediterranean tapas, including Lebanese tacos, Greek fries, and scallop crudo panipuri. Known for its delectable baklava and signature Reyna paella, the menu also caters to vegetarian and vegan preferences. Hidden beneath is a speakeasy for a unique experience. It's a spot to savor cocktails and Mediterranean bites in a warm, lounge-like atmosphere.
• 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.
• 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.
• Casa Mono — Spanish · rated 4.3/5: This bustling Gramercy corner transports diners to a spirited Barcelona tapas bar, where the sizzle of the plancha and the aroma of charred seafood fill an intimate, tile-lined space alive with communal energy. Small plates bursting with bold, sun-drenched flavors are passed across marble counters, perfectly paired with a deep cellar of Spanish wines that celebrate the vibrant, rustic soul of the Iberian Peninsula.
• 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.
• abc cocina — Mexican · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 38 E 19th St, abc cocina offers an exceptional dining experience with a vibrant ambiance. With a solid 4.3-star rating from over 800 reviews, this restaurant serves delightful tapas, expertly crafted cocktails, and delectable desserts. It’s perfect for an evening out with friends or a cozy brunch with a loved one. Enjoy al fresco dining with outdoor seating, or opt for takeout or delivery options. Reservations are recommended.
• City Tavern — American · rated 4.3/5: City Tavern, located at 1109 Elizabeth Ave in Elizabeth, NJ, blends relaxed American vibes with delicious Latin American cuisine. Perfect for families and groups, its menu highlights dishes like skirt steak and paella marinera, along with a variety of cocktails, beers, and wines. With options for brunch, happy hour, and late-night bites, City Tavern ensures a delightful dining experience both indoors and outdoors. Don't miss their exceptional service and ample free parking.
• Bazár Tapas Bar and Restaurant — Spanish · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the heart of NYC at 31 W 26th St, Bazár Tapas Bar and Restaurant offers a cozy, rustic-chic setting for enjoying tapas, wine, and cocktails. With a menu featuring vegetarian and seafood options, and a rating of 4.3, it’s a great spot for intimate dining or vibrant gatherings. Enjoy live music on weekends, outdoor seating, and a variety of happy hour and brunch specials. Delight in dishes like bone marrow and lemon chicken, and don't miss out on their expertly crafted cocktails. Takeout and curbside pickup are available.
• 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.
• 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.
• Empanada Mama East Village (14th St) — Spanish · rated 4.2/5: Nestled in the heart of Gramercy Park, Empanada Mama offers a rich array of over 40 empanada flavors that delight the senses. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night bites, it's perfect for family dining and solo meals alike. With options for kids and a diverse menu featuring chicken, beef, pernil, and cheese, this counter-serve joint boasts quick service and incredible flavor. Delivery and catering are also available. Customers appreciate the laid-back vibe and typically spend $10-20.
• 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.
• Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Tribeca — Spanish · rated 3.7/5: Nestled in the heart of Tribeca, Sophie's Cuban Cuisine serves up traditional Cuban dishes with a hint of Peruvian flair. Located at 325 Broadway, New York, this cozy counter-serve spot offers lunch, dinner, dessert, and coffee, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all ages. With convenient curbside pickup and delivery options, plus the ease of cashless payments, Sophie's welcomes you to savor their authentic flavors.
• La Paella — Spanish · rated 3.5/5: Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's East Village at 214 E 9th St, New York, La Paella offers a delightful taste of Spain. This cozy restaurant serves up an array of flavorful tapas and refreshing sangrias, perfect for a romantic evening or a special occasion. The charming decor, featuring dimly lit candles and unique touches, creates a warm atmosphere where you can savor their renowned paella and delectable appetizers. Join them for an unforgettable dining experience in a quaint, inviting setting.
• Casa Mono — Spanish: This intimate, high-energy corner of Gramercy pulses with the spirit of a traditional Spanish taberna, where the air is thick with the smoky aroma of the wood-fired hearth. Diners gather at the marble bar to witness the culinary theater of chefs plating vibrant, soul-warming tapas that celebrate the bold, rustic flavors of the Iberian Peninsula.
• 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.
• Nudibranch — Korean: Bathed in a moody, industrial glow, this East Village standout hums with a restless energy that mirrors its daring approach to globally-inspired fare. The kitchen weaves together Korean soul and Spanish flair to create punchy, avant-garde plates where fermented funk meets refined technique, all served in a space that feels like a high-fashion underground party. Every visit is a sensory exploration, pairing boundary-pushing cocktails with a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates the art of the unexpected.
• 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.
• 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.
• Tio Pio — Spanish: The air at Tio Pio is thick with the savory perfume of slow-roasted rotisserie chicken, drawing guests into a bright, bustling space that hums with the energy of a neighborhood favorite. Golden-skinned poultry takes center stage, served alongside heaps of fluffy yellow rice and seasoned beans that capture the soulful essence of traditional Latin comfort cooking. It is a vibrant urban retreat where the warmth of the hospitality matches the hearty, sun-drenched flavors on every plate, offering a true taste of home-style craftsmanship.
• Favela Cubana — Spanish: Stepping into this vibrant sanctuary feels like a spirited escape to the heart of Havana, where the air pulses with rhythmic beats and the intoxicating aroma of garlic-rubbed roast pork. Sun-drenched flavors shine through every plate of traditional Caribbean soul food, perfectly complemented by hand-shaken mojitos and a rustic, colorful atmosphere that captures the soulful warmth of a tropical celebration.
• Tina's Cuban Cuisine — Spanish: The air at Tina’s Cuban Cuisine is thick with the intoxicating scent of garlic butter and slow-roasted pernil, drawing guests into a vibrant space where soulful Caribbean flavors take center stage. Crispy, golden chicken empanadas and tender, wine-braised oxtail offer a comforting taste of tradition, perfectly complemented by the savory richness of classic ropa vieja and zesty, spice-kissed vegetables. This bustling culinary escape captures the heart of Havana, serving up hearty, aromatic plates that feel like a warm and welcoming home-cooked embrace.
• Empanada Mama — Spanish: This vibrant destination celebrates the art of the handheld feast, where golden, perfectly crimped pockets of dough shatter to reveal a steaming world of global flavors. The air buzzes with energy as guests explore a diverse map of fillings, ranging from traditional seasoned meats to creative fusions like Greek spinach pie, smoky Cuban pork, and the nostalgic comfort of a cheeseburger. Every bite delivers a satisfying, savory crunch, offering a playful and flavorful escape that brings international street food to life in a bustling, high-energy setting.
• Sophie's Cuban Cuisine — Spanish: Stepping into this vibrant Cuban eatery feels like a sun-drenched escape, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of garlic-infused mojo and slow-roasted pork. Heaping plates of tender ropa vieja and crispy lechon are paired with buttery yellow rice and caramelized sweet plantains, offering a soulful, home-style taste of the Caribbean. It is a bustling neighborhood staple where the lively energy and authentic flavors create a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for a hearty, flavorful midday retreat.
• Reyna — Mediterranean: Step into a lush Mediterranean oasis where vibrant greenery drapes from the ceiling and the air is filled with the enticing scents of spiced lamb and grilled halloumi. This chic sanctuary invites guests to linger over an array of artfully plated tapas and jewel-toned cocktails, blending a sophisticated urban energy with the sun-drenched, soulful flavors of the Mediterranean coast.