Amelia HallPaella—if you’ve never had it, you’re missing out. And no, it’s not just a fancy word for rice. This is just one dish that comes from the Spanish heritage that many people love.
Spanish cuisine is full of flavors, from sizzling tapas to cheese boards that challenge even the bravest foodie.
As someone who’s eaten at numerous Spanish restaurants, I’ve learned where to go for authentic eats. Here are my top Spanish restaurants in Vancouver that you need to check out.
1. Casa Molina
– Media credit: casamolina.ca
Address: 2211 Manitoba St
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday – 4 PM to 11 PM
Phone: +1 604-620-5445
Price: $$$
Every detail at Casa Molina, from the rustic decor to the passionate chefs, screams authentic Spanish vibes.
Among the Spanish restaurants in Vancouver, their paella is what puts them on the map. Their saffron-infused rice got a beautiful golden color and a subtle floral aroma that I just really love.
The arroz con secreto, a pork paella, is both hearty and refined. The pork is tender and flavorful, and it’s cooked with a variety of vegetables that add sweetness and texture.
Not a rice fan? The fideuà (a noodle-based paella) is just as good.
And for the love of all things sweet, do not skip the Torrijas. It’s like a Spanish twist on French toast, only richer. It’s served with vanilla bean ice cream that’s downright addictive.
| Pro Tip: Start off with the Quesos Españoles. It’s a chef’s selection of four different Spanish cheeses, served with quince jelly and a rotating house-made jelly. |
2. Bodega on Main
– Media credit: bodegaonmain
Address: 1014 Main St
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 12 AM
Phone: +1 (604) 565-8815
Price: $$
Bodega on Main has custom-designed leather seating and hand-carved stools. The 75-seat lounge feels like a cozy hideaway where you can escape the city hustle.
When it comes to Spanish dining in Vancouver, this spot is always high on my list. Their Chuletillas de Cordero (rosemary-marinated lamb chops) are grilled perfectly, keeping the lamb juicy and tender. The rosemary adds a fragrant kick that’s hard to forget.
If you’re into a little spice, the Gambas al Ajillo is a must. The prawns are sautéed in garlic and chilies with sherry, and the combo just works. You get heat from the chilies, the punch of garlic, and a touch of sweetness from the sherry.
| Pro Tip: Keep an eye on their daily specials. The brunch specials on Saturdays and Sundays are a steal. I mean, who can resist a bottle of Anna de Codorniu for just $35 on Sundays? |
3. Como Taperia
– Media credit: comotaperia
Address: 201 E 7th Ave,
Hours: Monday to Sunday 4 PM to 11 PM
Phone: +1 604-879-3100
Price: $$
Como Taperia is one of only two restaurants in Canada with the Restaurants from Spain certification, so you know you’re getting the real deal. The vibe is bustling and authentic, with a first-come, first-served policy.
I always start with the Premium Boquerones from Pujadó Solano. These aren’t your average anchovies; they’re delicate, flavorful, and melt in your mouth. Marinated in vinegar and olive oil, they have this bright, clean flavor that’s totally addictive.
The croquetas are another must-try. The béchamel sauce inside is so smooth and rich, and the crispy breadcrumb coating adds the perfect textural contrast.
And don’t miss the Tostada Matrimonio. It’s a delightful combination of boquerón, anchoa, and mojama on a perfectly toasted slice of bread. It has a salty, umami punch from the boquerón and anchoa, and a slightly smoky flavor from the mojama.
| Pro Tip: If you’re feeling indulgent, go for the 18oz Ribeye with Anchovy Butter and Mojama. The ribeye is cooked to your liking (I prefer medium-rare), and the anchovy butter melts all over the steak. The mojama adds another layer of umami and gives the meat a slightly chewy texture. |
4. España Restaurant
– Media credit: espanayvr
Address: 1118 Denman St
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 5 PM to 10 PM
Phone: +1 604-558-4040
Price: $$
España Restaurant takes cheese seriously, and honestly, I could just spend hours sampling their selection. The nutty Manchego is a classic for a reason, but I love the olive oil-rubbed Mahon Authentique more because of its subtle fruitiness.
The Murcia, another favorite, is soaked in red wine. It’s a semi-hard goat’s cheese that’s both tangy and smooth.
The Torta del Casar (a soft sheep’s milk cheese), on the other hand, packs a punch with its strong flavor. It’s got a runny, almost pudding-like consistency, and the flavor is intense and earthy – definitely not for the faint of heart.
Among Vancouver’s top Spanish restaurants, España is a must for cheese lovers looking for something beyond the usual tapas.
| Pro Tip: Beyond the cheese board, I also recommend trying the Galician Style Grilled Squid. It’s served with a simple but flavorful olive oil and paprika dressing that really lets the squid shine. |
