The Best Spanish Restaurants in Melbourne

Updated 10 months ago

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Spanish food has been served in Melbourne’s CBD since 1860. Despite this, Iberian cuisine isn’t nearly as ubiquitous here as Greek and Italian – which came with massive waves of post-war immigration. In lieu of this trend, we have something else: a steady trickle of Melburnians visiting Spain, falling in love with it and bringing some of it back, as at Bar Lourinhã. And there’s the influence of Spanish chefs who’ve decided to call Melbourne home. Like Barcelona-born Frank Camorra, who might be accredited with igniting our love for tapas through Movida and its multiple offshoots. Today, there’s no lack of restaurants to get your fix of paella, jamon, croquettas, sangria and other Iberian food hallmarks. These are the best places in Melbourne to do so, curated by Broadsheet’s expert food and drinks editors.

  • Classic Spanish food mixed with Andalucian and Muslim Mediterranean influences.

  • Finish your tapas or paella then head up to the roof for Negronis on tap.

  • The Spanish restaurant that started it all.

  • It's more casual than its big brother, but the food's just as exciting.

  • Movida's baby sister – and a good spot for a more low-key bite.

  • Dinner one toothpick at a time.

  • There’s only one rule at this Spanish eatery: no cutting corners.

  • Character like this can't be bought, only accumulated.

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  • The chalked-up menu might change a lot, but the bang-for-your-buck is a constant at this buzzy, warmly lit diner. Go for tapas-style plates like wallaby tartare, Portarlington mussels and house-made pumpkin agnolotti. Plus, vermouth and lo-fi wines on tap. It’s no surprise getting a seat can be a bit of a challenge.