If you’re looking for Spanish food with fine dining then you might want to consider checking out La Bandera. 

What caught our attention is the vibes they offer. From what we’ve seen, it’s truly a sophisticated and culinary experience— a feast for the senses and an evening to remember for us.

From the subtle play of ambient lighting to the meticulously curated decor, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to elevate the experience.

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On the flip side, we heard from the people we interviewed that it gets too cold at night during winter since the AC is always turned on. We don’t think it’s a major deal breaker, though.

Nonetheless, we think La Bandera still delivers a solid dining experience because of their wide variety of optional menus.

A top choice is their ala carte menu that also includes vegan and vegetarian options. Also, we also found that they have seasonal menus, which is pretty neat for those who love variety.

Plust, we think this aspect helps make it easier for groups to dine together. Since everyone has different food preferences, we think that even the pickiest eaters can find something they’d like.

What we’re a bit iffy about is that their portions are a bit on the smaller side, which is a bit disappointing since their prices are on the higher end. 

Nonetheless, if you’re a fan of having a wide range of choices while dining in a sophisticated ambiance then La Bandera might be the perfect choice for you!

El Gato Negro Tapas is a Spanish, bar, and restaurant combined into one. They offer an experience that’s unique from the other entries we have on our list.

For us, what stood out most about them is their interior, especially the high ceilings that makes the overall feel of the establishment more luxe. 

And though the space is a tad cramped, it’s still comfortable. We think this makes them perfect for more intimate settings since there are usually no large crowds that can hinder your social gatherings.

As for their menu, we were impressed to find that their dishes are highly praised by their regulars.

From what we’ve gathered, they’re known for creating simple, and bold tapas dishes. We like how they take the best of modern and traditional Spanish flavours and techniques while drawing on inspiration and ingredients from closer to home. 

Another thing that we want to highlight is their wide variety of available drinks, It’s almost like they have everything we could ever think of. They have cocktails to mocktails, custom-made drinks for liquor connoisseurs, you name it, they’ve got it!

On the flip-side, we do have to mention some of the inconsistent feedback regarding their service levels.

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Throughout our interviews with their patrons, some folks gave props to the staff for being super detailed and friendly, while others weren’t too thrilled, mentioning the place lacked that cosy, welcoming vibe.  

Furthermore, we were let down by the lack of available seating during peak hours. In our opinion, this can be a bit inconvenient during holidays and since it might ruin the entire dining experience.

Despite these cons, if you’re looking for a quaint restaurant with a bar-like vibe to it, then El Gato Negro Tapas might be the place you’re looking for. 

Evuna NQ is like this cool Spanish getaway on Thomas St that locals and out-of-towners are both vibing with. What’s so special about it, you say?

Well, it’s got this chill vibe that totally nails Spanish hospitality. The setup is cosy, the colours are warm, and there are some groovy tunes in the background that just set the mood.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show—the tapas. These little plates pack a punch of flavour, showing off all the awesome stuff going on in Spanish cuisine.

And to wash down those tasty bites, they’ve got a bunch of Spanish wines and sangrias to choose from. The staff knows their stuff, so they’ll hook you up with the perfect match to level up your meal.

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But here’s the real deal: while some folks are shouting from the rooftops about their awesome experiences, others have hit a few bumps. It’s a bit of a mixed bag.

Oh, and a heads up about the grub: the dishes are delish, no doubt. But, considering the size, the prices might be a bit steep compared to other spots. Something to think about if you’re watching the pennies.

But you know what? Evuna NQ still gets a nod from us. If you’re into tapas or just testing the waters with Spanish eats, this laid-back spot is definitely worth a look.

In Deansgate, La Viña stands out as a Spanish restaurant promising an authentic Iberian experience. Step inside, and you’re instantly transported to the lively streets of Spain!

But what we really appreciate is La Viña’s menu. From what we’ve seen, it’s a true celebration of Spanish flavours with a tempting selection of tapas, paellas, and mouth-watering desserts.

Adding to the experience is their extensive list of Spanish wines and sangria that can complement your meal perfectly.

However, we think it’s only fair to mention that while the dishes are tempting, the price range might raise an eyebrow, especially considering the portion sizes. Good tapas are great, but an eye on your wallet is wise.

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We’re also a bit iffy about some reports of lukewarm/cold food, which could impact the overall dining experience. While it’s not a deal-breaker for us, it’s something worth noting.

On the flip side, we’re impressed by its servers who are extremely knowledgeable about the menu and drinks. Many patrons we surveyed sang praises about the recommendations given to them! 

Overall, while it’s quite pricey, we believe La Viña deserves a spot on our list for its varied selection and excellent customer service.

Tast Catala is a swanky Spanish spot promising a top-notch dining experience right in the heart of the central district. It’s a convenient choice if you’re not up for a trek but still want that Spanish vibe.

First impressions? We love how the place has this cool mix of classic and modern vibes. 

Picture rich mahogany furnishings, ambient lighting, and big windows giving off a warm and inviting feel. It sets the stage for a memorable night, whether you’re marking a special occasion or just up for some quality eats.

Now, let’s talk about the menu. It’s a Spanish food fiesta, blending old-school classics with modern twists. We love the tasting menu, which shows off the best seasonal ingredients—a party for your taste buds!

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In our books, another thing that sets Tast Catala apart is its commitment to delivering a fancy dining experience, no matter the reason. Be it a birthday, anniversary, or a work shindig, we noticed glowing feedback on how its staff is all about making it special.

Sure, it might hit your wallet a bit harder, but you’re paying for top-notch food and a team that knows their stuff.

Here’s the thing that gave us pause – the portions are on the smaller side. The food is great, no doubt, but if you’re expecting a feast, you might feel a bit short-changed.

Still, whether you’re aiming to impress someone, celebrate a big moment, or just enjoy a quality meal, we believe Tast Catala is worth checking out.