Love Spanish food? Here’s where to find the real deal in the UAE

Craving a proper taste of Spain? From tapas and tortilla to Spanish cheeses, cured meats and pantry staples, the UAE has a growing line-up of places bringing the real thing to the table – and there’s an official seal to help you find them. Launched in 2020 by ICEX, the Spanish government agency responsible for promoting Spanish companies internationally, Restaurants from Spain recognises restaurants outside Spain that meet standards for authentic Spanish cuisine and quality Spanish products. Colmados from Spain does the same for food and grape juice shops specialising in authentic Spanish products. Think of it as your shortcut to places that take Spanish ingredients, recipes and food culture seriously. A Dubai favourite for Spanish cooking, Lola Taberna takes inspiration from Barcelona and the Andalusian spirit of Cádiz, with a menu rooted in Spanish food and culture. Expect Spanish classics such as seafood paella, patatas bravas and Andalusian-style calamari with aioli, alongside Iberian charcuterie, croquettes and grilled dishes. Located at TRYP by Wyndham Dubai Barsha Heights, the modern taberna-style spot also brings in Spanish music and the tradition of sobremesa – lingering around the table long after the meal is over. It was among the first UAE restaurants to receive the Restaurants from Spain certification. Inside Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Salero Tapas & Bodega brings an authentic Spanish bodega feel to the city, with rustic interiors, Spanish grape juice and live flamenco performances. The menu draws on Iberian flavours, with favourites including gambas al ajillo, patatas bravas and signature paellas finished with crispy socarrat. Set on Palm Jumeirah, Tagomago brings the spirit of the Balearics to Dubai with a beachfront restaurant, bar, beach and pool. The menu draws on Spanish Mediterranean flavours, with classic pan con tomate, patatas bravas, fresh seafood, signature paellas and dishes from the grill. With sea views and a relaxed island feel, it’s a spot for lingering over tapas and sharing a paella. At Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, José by Pizarro brings acclaimed Spanish chef José Pizarro’s signature tapas style to the UAE. The menu focuses on sharing, with authentic tapas, signature paellas, seasonal ingredients and Spanish grape juice, alongside favourites such as croquetas, prawn fritters and tortilla. Inspired by the lively bars and family tables of Spain, the restaurant brings a warm, social feel to the dining experience. More than a food store, La Despensa is a go-to for authentic Spanish gastronomy in the UAE. Since 2015, it has built one of the country’s widest selections of premium Spanish products, sourced directly from trusted producers and regions across Spain. Head to its Goshi Warehouses City store in Al Quoz 3 or shop online for everything from Spanish cheeses and cured meats to olive oils, preserves and other pantry staples, with plenty of regional specialities to take home. Look for the Restaurants from Spain and Colmados from Spain seals and discover more certified establishments through Foods and Drinks from Spain foodswinesfromspain.com. Stay tuned to @spainfoodwine as more UAE venues are set to join the certified community in early 2027.