The best Spanish restaurants in Glasgow

If it’s upmarket Spanish dining that you’re after, look no further than centrally located Ibérica. With a tempting delicatessen counter showcasing well-sourced ingredients (think beautifully preserved fish and veg, rich olive oils, and homemade Bocadillos) the restaurant is certainly tempting. Friendly Spanish waiters will happily talk you through the menu and are always on hand to answer questions or dish out any recommendations they may have. Alongside some seriously tempting main courses (including paella with cuttlefish ink and chorizo “lollipops” complete with a piquant pear aioli) come an array of Spanish cheeses and a seriously well considered wine list. Not one to miss!

Another stylish option, The Spanish Butcher – located in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City – is the perfect destination to indulge in a leisurely weekend lunch or sophisticated Friday night dinner. Set lunch menus and pre-theatre menus present some serious value for money. Galician Sundays are also superb, two-courses are £21 and amongst some sumptuous meat dishes are a few punchy veggie and vegan options. Leave enough room for dessert and indulge in the sugar and cinnamon-coated churros dipped in a warm chocolate sauce. 

Brutti is really well loved in this city, and it’s easy to see why. Lively and atmospheric, the staff are super friendly and always on hand for a wee chat. The restaurant’s tapas and pinchos make it the perfect destination for big groups and celebrations. Spicy chickpea stews, saffron-infused paellas and salty peppers de padron make up some of the fab dishes on offer. Prices are more than reasonable and serving sizes are generous – hovering around £6 per dish.

Laid-back and casual, Elena’s Bar is truly authentic. The menu is extensive: from steak and chicken to vegan and gluten-free options, there’s something for everybody at Elena’s. The live music keeps things lively and the low prices are truly tempting (an average lunch will only set you back £15 per person). The décor is paired back and simple, but the tasty and flavour-packed food is where it’s all about. To end your meal, why not treat yourself to the famous Sticky Cheesecake made with the decidedly decadent Idiazabal smoked Basque ewe’s-milk cheese? Alternatively opt for the Budin de pan hech en casa: a dreamy crème caramel style cake, which at £3.50 is really quite the steal.