Paellas are a must have dish in most Spanish restaurants.
Why are Spanish restaurants so popular?
Food is mainly the reason, but so is the experience.
For instance, have you noticed that most Spanish restaurants in Cebu have a grandiose setting? From warm color palettes and terracotta tiles to classical Spanish music and ambient lighting–these are all essential to Spanish dining culture.
Spanish restaurants aim to give you the full authentic experience, where there is a huge emphasis on social dining.
As such, what better way to enjoy Spanish cuisine than at a restaurant that adds to the experience? Check out these places that are known for their food and overall atmosphere and vibe.
SOCARRAT
Socarrat is one of the most sought out Spanish restaurants in Cebu—a hot plate of paella is waiting for you!
The word socarrat originates from the word socarrar, which means to burn or scorch. It’s a term used whenever you order a paella (a rice dish consisting of meat, seafood, rice, and saffron).
It’s that crispy crust you see underneath the rice that almost sticks to the pan, which is a highlight in Spanish cooking.
Although fairly new, Socarrat has been on Cebu’s radar since it opened in June 2023. Many reviews (including ones from customers who have visited or lived in Spain) point out the consistent quality and even the restaurant’s commitment to Spanish flavors.
Their specialty is, of course, paella!
What makes their paellas different from other restaurants is that they focus more on how the rice tastes and feels—not overdoing it with the toppings.
The owners of the restaurant shared that there is a lack of the “real, authentic taste” of Spanish cuisine here in Cebu, and that they aim to fill that void.
LOCATION:
Faustina Bldg., Bonifacio District, Kasambagan, F. Cabahug Street, Cebu City
HOURS:
11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
GORLIZ TAPAS Y VINOS SPANISH RESTAURANT
Looking for the best tapas in Cebu? For over a decade, Gorliz has prided themselves on their tapas.
But what are tapas? They’re an array of appetizers served on small trays, varying from cosas de picar (finger food), pinchos / pintxos (skewers or toothpicks), and cazuelas (small dishes in sauces).
Many customers claim that Gorliz serves the best Spanish tapas in Cebu. They also serve paellas, with the Paella Negra as their bestseller.
But what makes them different from the rest? Their powerhouse dishes include Chorizo Iberico, Croquetas de Jamon y Queso, Pollo Iberico (oven roasted chicken), a selection of meat and seafood plates, their wines, and a customer favorite: Chipirones en su Tinta (baby squids served in ink).
Customer reviews mention that the restaurant indeed serves authentic Spanish cuisine and that it has a romantic ambiance. There is outdoor seating available as well.
LOCATION:
2nd Floor, Streetscape Cebu, Paseo Saturnino, Cebu City
HOURS:
11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
IPAR’S RESTAURANTE Y BAR DE TAPAS
Ipar Miranda is a Spanish chef from Cebu. He fell in love with his family’s cooking during his childhood years.
He pursued his passion for food by attending a culinary school in Los Angeles, learning the western methods of cooking, as well as pursuing his love for Spanish cuisine by training at IES San Jose (a renowned culinary school).
When he returned home, he opened the first ever authentic Spanish restaurant in Cebu City. He mentions using legitimate Spanish ingredients such as olive oil, saffron, and paprika, which is what makes his food unique compared to other Spanish-themed restaurants.
He suggests trying out the lengua estofada (braised ox-tongue), callos a la madrileña (Madrid-style ox-tripe stew), and chipirones en su tinta.
Apart from the delicious food, the staff have also received constant praise–they are described as friendly and accommodating. While the restaurant is a bit on the pricier side, the general consensus is that the food and experience give you value for your money.
LOCATION:
157 F. Ramos St., Cebu City 6000
HOURS:
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
ARANO’S BAR AND RESTAURANT
Arano’s is the only Spanish restaurant on this list that could pass for a hole-in-the-wall restaurant.
According to users on Reddit and Yelp, the restaurant is the perfect place to eat with your family or have an intimate dinner with your date because of how quaint the setting is—no loud designs or gimmicks. But its homey vibe is definitely complemented by the quality of its food offerings.
Netizens recommend trying their baked chicken, gambas al ajillo, and their torta de patata. Their selection of seafood dishes are a highlight, where fresh catches are prepared with traditional cooking methods.
Some customers go so far as to say that this is the best Spanish restaurant in Cebu. Based on the reviews, it’s easy to see that Arano’s is highly regarded, thanks to their authentic flavors and cozy atmosphere.
If you plan on visiting the restaurant, make sure to call first to make a reservation, as there are only 25 seats available.
LOCATION:
29-31 Fairlane Village Rd, Guadalupe, Cebu City
HOURS:
6:00 PM – 10:00PM
CONTACT NUMBER:
(032) 256 1934
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Spanish restaurants in general aim to capture the essence of Spanish culture and cuisine. Based on the reviews of the restaurants on this list, you can see that there is a strong commitment to food quality and customer experience.
Whether you’re dining alone or with good company, you’re sure to have a wonderful time at any of these 4 Spanish restaurants in Cebu.
