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La Barra at Mercado Little Spain
Master Critic Review
La Barra at Mercado Little Spain
8.4
A lively tapas‐focused outpost inside a Spanish food hall offering a broad range of classic tapas, paella, and Spanish wines. Great for shared plates and casual meals in a bustling, mercado‑style atmosphere. Popular among locals and visitors for tapas crawls or group dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tortilla de patatas, Jamón Ibérico with croquetas, Gambas al ajillo
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Broad tapas selection inside a large, curated Spanish food hall.
Who should go: Groups or casual diners craving tapas variety.
When to visit: Evening for lively tapas + drinks.
What to order: Tortilla de patatas; Jamón Ibérico croquetas; Gambas al ajillo
Insider tip: Arrive early for bar seating to avoid Mercado‑area crowds.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available for $15, street parking challenging during peak hours (especially evenings).
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans and nice tops are acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate to high - lively atmosphere with bustling conversations.
Weekend wait: 45-60 minutes without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple vegetarian options including salads and tapas.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 vegan-friendly tapas available.
Gluten-free options: Yes - separate prep area to accommodate gluten-free diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it's a fun, vibrant atmosphere ideal for conversation while enjoying shared plates, making it a good choice for a light-hearted first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible to walk in, but during busy hours (especially weekends), it’s advisable to book ahead to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, the lively atmosphere is suitable for children, and there are family-friendly menu options like patatas bravas and croquetas.
Best For
Better for: A lively, tapas-focused experience in a vibrant, food hall environment—ideal for groups or casual diners.
Skip if: If you're seeking a quieter, more intimate dining experience or a place with more formal seating arrangements.