If you haven’t experienced the cultural phenomenon (Spanish culture) that’s tapas, you’re missing out. And we’re not talking Tesco’s own tapas selection—we’re talking real Spanish tapas. Well, as close to it as you’re going to get without actually going to Spain.
Although neighbours, we think Gibraltar has the right to claim it knows what it’s doing when it comes to tapas. Neighbouring is the famous Andalusian area of Spain, the home to tapas. Everywhere in Spain does it, but nowhere does it like the south of Spain.
When you’re going for tapas, you want to go somewhere that really knows what they’re doing. Read on for our top favourite places for tapas in Gibraltar.
Tapas By Gauchos
If you want a touch of elegance in your tapas experience, Tapas By Gauchos is the place to visit.
More than just an offshoot of the popular Gauchos steakhouse next door, it is a restaurant of its own. Dark wood decor, leather-covered armchairs, and candlelit ambience make the Gauchos experience 10x better.
They stand out from other restaurants because of their Argentinian take on Spanish tapas. You’ll try the classics, including croquetas, gambas al ajillo, and chorizo al vino. You’ll also sample premium beef, pouty empanadas, and provoleta grilled stuffed with cheese. Accompany it with a bottle of Malbec or a Tempranillo with intense flavour.
Aquaterra
Aquaterra is not a conventional tapas bar.
Located right in Ocean Village, this restaurant transforms tapas into a Mediterranean seafood dish. Fresh fish, innovative spices, and refreshing sea breezes are just a few components that make each scoop even more delightful.
Best served with a late afternoon plate-sharing session accompanied by a glass of Albariño while watching the yachts drift by. Their octopus carpaccio is a must, with thin slices drizzled with olive oil, a citric squeeze, and a dash of sea salt. The tuna tartare, served with a hint of wasabi and avocado, has to be one of the best in Gibraltar. They also do Spanish-style garlic prawns, served sizzling in a clay dish – classic, simple, and perfect.
Vinopolis Gastrobar
A little secret gem, Vinopolis Gastrobar is tucked away in one of Gibraltar’s winding side streets in John Mackintosh Square.
It is cosy in all the right ways with warm wooden tables, cosy lighting, and walls filled with bottles of Spanish wine.
This place specialises in prepared tapas with a twist. Infused with truffle oxtail croquettes and patatas bravas, it replaces the usual sauce with a smoky paprika aioli. Their grilled octopus is tender and perfectly charred, the best in Gibraltar.
They also make carefully selected wine orders, always Spanish and good. Their Rioja pairing orders elevate the experience.
Little Bay Indian Tapas Bar & Restaurant
Little Bay proves that tapas don’t have to be Spanish. Indian cuisine combined with the concept of small plates is what makes dining out in Gibraltar amazing.
They serve delicious spiced lamb skewers, crispy okra fries, or butter chicken croquettes. Richly spiced, grilled to perfection, and completely smoky describes their paneer tikka. An Indian twist is even put on their take on calamari. Served with a tangy tamarind dip, the calamari is fried in light chickpea batter, it’s completely irresistible.
Every drink is infused with minerals, and every cocktail comes playfully, making it worthwhile to try out their drink menu too.
Moving to Gibraltar from the UK
If planning a move from the UK, Gibraltar is one of the best places you can move to. Because it’s still British territory, you don’t need a visa. You can easily get a Gibraltar residence permit to retire, live, and work in Gibraltar.
Whether it’s warm weather, relaxed life, or a blend of cultures, you can eat your English meal in the morning, have delicious tapas for lunch, and enjoy drinks by the marina!
These restaurants serve incredible tapas dishes. Taking inspiration from mainland Spain and traditional Spanish tapas dishes, you’ll love the flavours of these dishes!
