11 Best Spanish Restaurants for Tapas in ChicagoAlicia Likenon August 14, 2020 at 4:11 pm

Imagine this: you have a group of friends or family visiting over the weekend. You want to treat them to a nice, long meal but you’re not sure what everyone likes. Your solution? Tapas! Take your loved ones on a culinary adventure by ordering up a variety of interesting dishes. Add some sangria or fancy cocktails and by the end, everyone will be impressed (and very full). These are the best restaurants you can find for tapas in Chicago.

638 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605

Looking for a modern interpretation of timeless Catalan traditions? Of course, you are. Mercat’s robust menu invites foodies to experience a masterful twist on authentic Spanish cuisine. From meal-sized classics to street food starters, each item offers a new journey for your tastebuds. To top it off, Mercat offers a finely curated selection of sangria, wine, and cava. ¡Qué Rico!

5527 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60630

For over 40 years, restaurant Chef Virgilio Trujillo has perfected classic dishes like Gambas al Ajillo, Tortilla Espanola, and Gazpacho Andaluz. And Chef V. knows a thing or two about presentation — some of the items are almost too pretty to eat. Almost. With items like Albondigas Al Vino Tinto and Escalopes De Cerdo, you’ll leave Cafe Marbella feeling satisfied, guaranteed.

441 N Clark, Chicago, IL 60654

You don’t have to venture far to explore soulful Spanish tapas. Chef Hisanobu Osaka has curated a small plates menu with savory delights such as house-made tomato bread, Mushroom Pintxos, and Galician Octopus. Plus Bar Ramone’s wine program features an extensive list of just over 100 bottles. Decisions, decisions.

2024 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614

A Spanish tapas with a fun name? Sign us up. This Lincoln Park staple has been dishing up authentic Spanish cuisine since 1985. Their menu was crafted to share and features tapas, pintxos (bite-sized tapas), and paella. They also have killer pitchers of sangria which go down a little too easy.

3656 N Ashland Ave, Chicago IL 60613

Did you know: ‘Bulerías’ is a fast, rhythmic form of flamenco dancing? It’s a fun, energetic experience which is exactly what the folks at Bulerias Tapas aim to deliver with their cuisine. Stop by with a large group and order favorites like Chicken Croquettes, Carne En Tostada, and Gambas Al Ajillo. You’ll be happy you did.

737 N LaSalle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654

After 30 years of serving up the finest Tapas in Chicago, Iberico Express has adapted to serve fresh, ready-to-go items during the pandemic. Their combination plates come with a main dish and two fresh, prepared sides. Or try their Paellas, Garlic Chicken, and famous Empanada Gallega in small, medium, or large sizes.

1530 S State St, Chicago, IL 60605

As Chicago’s Taste of Spain™, this South Loop joint offers a vibrant atmosphere, intriguing cocktails, and creative Spanish tapas. Whether you’re dining with co-workers or just looking for something different, Tapas Valencia is the perfect spot for any occasion.

201 N State Street, Chicago, IL 60601

Set at 27 stories above it all, ROOF on theWit has earned international awards for its gorgeous design and lively entertainment. Explore unique hand-crafted cocktails and cuisine with a side of sweeping skyline views.

807 West Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607

Imported from New York in 2019, this Barcelona-style tapas bar offers a cozy vibe with a design aesthetic inspired by European modernism. Indulge in a rotating menu of seasonal dishes and Spanish classics.

4100 Roosevelt Rd, Hillside, IL 60162

In 1988, Emilio Gervilla opened his first restaurant. He quickly gained the title “Tapas King” for his own impressive recipes, honed over a lifetime of working his way through restaurants in Spain, and traveling to the US to share his talent. The menu is seemingly never-ending, in both Italian and English.

1615 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

Traveling to the ‘burbs? Check out this colorful, modern space. Since 1995, Tapas Barcelona has been serving fine Spanish cuisine in Evanston at an affordable price. Their Tapas menu is stacked with popular items like Pulpito a la Plancha and Filete con Patatas. It’s worth the trip.

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