Best Hidden Gems Spanish Restaurants in Los Angeles
4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Malbec Market
Deli-market format offering authentic Spanish and Argentinian specialties.
Notable Picks
8.3
A neighborhood Argentinian-Italian-Spanish market/counter serving standout steak sandwiches, housemade empanadas, and weekly Spanish specials. Locals praise the vibrant deli counter and wine selection, ideal for casual meals and sampling global flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Empanadas, Short Rib Manicotti, Tortilla de Papas
What Makes it Special: Deli-market format offering authentic Spanish and Argentinian specialties.
#2
Xuntos
8.2
Chef Sandra Cordero's tapas bar specializes in hard-to-find Galician specialties like percebes and huge empanadas, alongside traditional pintxos from Spain's northern regions. The two-story space with dual mezzanines creates an unrefined Barcelona-style atmosphere perfect for sharing small plates and natural Spanish wines.
Must-Try Dishes:
Galician Empanadas, Jamón Ibérico de Bellota, Percebes (Gooseneck Barnacles)
What Makes it Special: Only place in LA serving authentic Galician specialties and percebes
#3
Yahir
8.1
A Mar Vista tapas bar where chef Matteen Khalifian layers Spanish small-plates with subtle South American and Persian accents, creating a menu that feels both familiar and personal. The room leans moody and social with a strong cocktail program and regular live jazz, making it a neighborhood night-out anchor. Best for sharing a spread at the bar or settling in for a late dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Gambas al Ajillo, Croquetas, Seasonal Paella
What Makes it Special: Spanish-style tapas filtered through the chef’s Iranian-Latin heritage.
Worthy Picks
#4
Navarre
7.6
Navarre is a Spanish-style tapas and bocadillo bar inside LAX’s Tom Bradley International Terminal, serving Manchego-heavy sandwiches, small plates, and wines to travelers on the go. Expect well-built bocadillos, Mediterranean-leaning salads, and beer or wine in a bright, modern concourse setting that’s a clear cut above typical airport fare.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pollo Bocadillo, Smoked Jamon Bocadillo, Ensalada Fabada
What Makes it Special: Spanish-inspired bocadillos and tapas in a polished, traveler-friendly LAX setting.