Santander, Spain is a culinary dream; one we didn’t want to wake up from! Fresh-caught seafood, pungent cheese, sizzling meat and spectacular Spanish tortilla are a few of the tasty foods in Santander restaurants.
The ideal way to consume these is in tapa portions. During our trip, we grazed on bite-sized local specialties, savored a copious number of gastronomic delights and bar-top ‘Pinchos’ – a signature of Northern Spain.
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Eating is, no doubt, one of the Fun Things To Do in Santander. To help fellow travelers on their culinary journey, we are sharing our picks for the best tapas restaurants in Santander, Spain!
11 Top Tapas Restaurants in Santander
On our list, not only do we showcase where to eat in Santander, but we also offer suggestions for what to order. Later you will find a map of restaurant locations – plus, a few helpful tips for eating in Santander.
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#1 Bar La Catedra Tapas y Vinos
The first Santander tapas restaurant that we stumbled into was La Catedra – and despite our best efforts, we found it difficult to surpass.
Featuring a charming, shabby chic interior with just a few booths and high-top tables outside under an awning, La Catedra is intimate and jovial.
Lucky to score an open table, we settled in for a feast. With the aid of a helpful waiter (and an English menu), we ordered one delightful dish after another.
We highly recommend the Championes con Salsa de Queso Azul (Mushrooms in Blue Cheese Sauce), the Albondigas Caseras en Salsa de Tomate (Meatballs in Tomato Sauce) and Moruno, Patatas y Huevos Sartenadas (Pork, Potatoes and Fried Egg in a Skillet).
Top Dining Tip: It’s best to make a reservation – but turnover occurs fairly regularly.
#2 Casa Lita
Often hailed as the Best Tapas Restaurant in Santander, Casa Lita specializes in Pinchos (also spelled Pintxos). Our first experience with these regional tapas was in Basque Country, where they are said to have been invented.
The term Pincho translates to Skewer. Pinchos feature an array of ingredients creatively crafted atop a slice of bread and held together with a toothpick. They are artistically displayed in glass cases at the bar (so don’t look for them on menus).
At Casa Lita, the rustic interior of exposed stone walls and wooden barrels fades into the background as the Pinchos take center stage. They are known for unique flavor combinations and affordable prices.
We popped into Casa Lita feeling peckish in the late afternoon (aka the wrong time to eat in Spain). With few other patrons around, only a small selection of Pinchos remained after the lunch rush. .
We settled on a Curry Chicken Pincho (a unique and popular choice) and a Mushroom Cream Croquette encased in Bacon-Wrapped Pork (which was good…and would have been amazing a few hours earlier).
Tapas Tip: While it’s fantastic that Casa Lita is open throughout the day, we recommend arriving when the bar is hopping to ensure that fresh tapas are flowing.
#3 Bodega del Riojano
Highly regarded as the pinnacle of Santander, Spain restaurants, Bodega del Riojano is steeped in history and tradition. They’ve earned a Michelin mention for authenticity – and we believe it’s a must-eat for visitors!
While many guests prefer a table in the dining room where painted barrels line the walls, we were content standing at the bar, soaking in the bustling atmosphere.
The bar menu is highlighted by quintessential Spanish tapas, including dried meats, creamy cheeses and seafood classics.
Our position had us staring down the cheese offerings – and we simply couldn’t resist the Queso D.O. Picon Bejes-Tresviso. This extraordinary blue cheese is produced in the mountains of Cantabria.
We followed that up with a sizzling Chorizo Frito con Patatas, which left us satiated and very pleased.
The Torreznos (Fried Pork Belly) and Stewed Snails (a local favorite) are other popular picks. As it was our last stop of the night, we simply couldn’t eat another bite.
Good to Know: Bodega del Riojano is known for serving some of the best food in Santander. As such, table reservations are an absolute must. Just be aware that the first seating is at 08:30pm.
#4 Meson Rampalay
Idyllically situated on a leafy courtyard next to the Church of Santa Lucia, Meson Rampalay is one of the more inconspicuous places to eat in Santander. Yet, it was one of the best meals that we had!
The menu is broken down by Hot Platters (Raciones Calientes) and Cold Platters (Raciones Frias). Additionally, some of the items are offered in smaller tapas-sized servings.
As we wanted to try a number of dishes, we opted for several of the small plates and shared them.
The Colas de Langostino al Ajillo (Grilled Shrimp with Garlic Sauce) were plump and flavorful – and the small portion was bigger than we expected.
The tender Carrilleras de Cerdo Iberico (Homemade Iberian Pork Cheeks) was melt-in-your-mouth fantastic!
In fact, the two dishes were so delicious that we were tempted to return for a second round (but, alas, so many tapas, so little time).
Foodie Tip: In addition to the tapas-sized ‘raciones’, they also offer an impressive number of Pinchos at the bar. Don’t hesitate to order some items from the menu (with your waiter) and then pick out a few Pinchos (from the bartender).
#5 Parrilla Brasas
A long-standing Santander restaurant serving exceptional flame-grilled food, Parrilla Brasas is a foodie gem.
Lucky to snag a table outside (it helped that we arrived right when it opened), we stayed much longer than anticipated, ordering round after round of tapas.
The must-try tapa at Brasas Grill is Pincho de Solomillo Iberico. The slider-sized, grilled Iberian pork sirloin sandwich packs a punch!
It is tasty on its own but is further enhanced with a flavorful chimichurri sauce. Seriously, it was so good that I broke down and ordered a second one!
Kris, who prefers spicy food, loved the Picante Chorizo a la Brasa. We both enjoyed the Champinones a la Parrilla (Grilled Mushroom Caps with Garlic Butter).
In terms of taste, quality, service and price, Parrilla Brasas truly ticked all the boxes!
Menu Tip: For a list of the day’s available tapas, look for the Pinchos chalkboard next to the entrance.
#6 Amarella Cafe
Bright and always buzzing, Amarella might be the most popular cafe in the city. It is frequented by locals and tourists, families and couples, retirees and businessmen.
It’s also a top spot for brunch and a great place to try traditional food in Santander – especially tapas.
We arrived at the tail end of the breakfast rush (already hungry for lunch) and only had to wait a few minutes for a table. Once seated, we ordered the café’s two most popular dishes: Spanish Tortilla and Patatas Amarella.
The Tortilla offerings are showcased at the bar, but our waiter rattled off the day’s selections. We opted for Tortilla con Jamon y Queso (Egg and Potato topped with Ham and Cheese) – and it was one of the best Tortillas we ate in Santander.
We were also impressed by the Patatas Bravas (Fried Potato Wedges covered with Brava Sauce), which ranks as one of Spain’s most beloved tapas. The potatoes were hot and crispy and the sauce (an in-house cream, tomato, paprika combination) was on point!
Breakfast Tip: Tortilla makes a great first meal. In the morning, pair it with coffee (which is said to be fantastic at Amerella). For a sweet treat, also order a slice of homemade cake.
#7 Mercado del Este
Once a thriving Santander food market and now a bustling dining destination, Mercado del Este boasts a number of vendors, each displaying a dazzling array of inventive tapas.
Despite so many choices, we were drawn to Tentempie. Here they veer away from traditional Spanish tapas, offering a more international assortment of street food fare.
We ordered a selection of Empanadas Argentinas, Focaccias Italiana and a Salmon Wrap. The later mostly for the fresh green veggies, which had been seriously lacking in our Santander tapas experience!
Food Hall Tip: Circle the space a few times before making a choice. For variety, it is also possible to order from multiple places. We wish we would have saved room for a taste from Quesoba Cheese-Bar and the Pinchos at Casa del Indiano looked superb!
#8 Restaurante Vivero
With its position on the water, it is not surprising that Santander cuisine is fraught with fish and other seafoods.
The prime place to get a taste is Barrio Pesquero, the city’s famed Fisherman’s Quarter, where numerous seafood restaurants occupy a single block.
While seafood is not Kris’ favorite, I was adamant we eat at least one fish restaurant in Santander. So we made the trek from the city center to Barrio Pesquero for a seafood lunch.
On the search for an affordable eatery with a fun ambiance, we ended up on the patio at Restaurante Vivero.
In our opinion, the star of the menu is Rabas (Fried Calamari Strips) – another must-eat food in Santander. At Vivero, they were cooked to perfection with a crispy coating, tender squid…and so tasty we didn’t even ask for sauce.
We also thought the Paella de Marisco (Seafood Rice) was scrumptious. Paella hails as the National Dish of Spain – and the small (lunch only) portion at Vivero was superb.
Seafood Tip: For a true feast, go for the heaping Seafood Platter. It’s piled high with lobster, shrimp, crab and scallops. The Arroz con Bogavante (Lobster Rice) also gets rave reviews.
#9 Canadio
Another Michelin-mentioned and famous restaurant in Santander is Canadio. We found the prospect of eating at Canadio quite compelling. Despite being pretentious, it’s also well-known for Tortilla.
Intrigued, we joined locals and in-the-know visitors and shuffled into the bar an hour before seatings began for lunch.
The single food item is Tortilla – and it’s only available at the bar (so don’t try to grab a table, indoors or out). You order directly with the bartender and the typical side is a small glass of beer (although, we opted for wine).
While the environment was somewhat bewildering (smartly dressed waiters and white tablecloths), the Tortilla was amazing.
Not as dry as most Tortillas we’ve had, I feared the consistency would subtract from the dish. I was very wrong, as it was utterly satisfying.
Something to Note: Spanish Tortilla – also called Spanish Omelet – is customarily served at room temperature. While we firmly believe it would taste better hot (or at least warm), the people of Santander seem to disagree.
#10 Beher
Touted as a shop but with a menu of food for on-site consumption, Beher is dedicated to selling and serving one of the most famous foods in Spain: 100% Iberico Jamon.
The Beher menu is rather simple, offering Iberico Ham served in platters, cones, croissants and baguettes. Local cheeses, wines and cava are also available.
More expensive than other tapas in Santander (but definitely worth the splurge, in our opinion), we shared a trio of mini-croissant ham sandwiches – and they absolutely hit the spot.
Fun Fact: The Spanish word Embutido refers to Cured Meats (much like Charcuterie in French). Platters of cold cuts, usually with cheese and bread, are a popular tapa in Santander and throughout Spain.
#11 Cafeteria Luzmela
We were lured into Luzmela when strolling past and noticing that the place was jam packed. Stepping inside, the space is decorated with rotary phones and old-fashioned bottles.
We also took note of the appealing Pinchos behind the bar and decided to grab a sidewalk table.
The friendly waiter touted the specialty of the house, Tortillitas de Camerones (Shrimp Pancakes) that are typical of Southern Spain.
Akin to fritters, the crispy cakes pack a punch of salty goodness. We were drinking wine, but think they would pair fabulously with beer.
More Tapas to Order: We mistakenly ordered a full racion, rather than a tapas-portion, so were too full to sample any of the other bar top snacks. However, the Fish Balls and Chorizo in Red Wine get outstanding reviews!
Map of Restaurants in Santander, Spain
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Santander Restaurant Map below.
Tips for Eating at Restaurants in Santander
Getting hungry? Of course you are! Before heading out, we have a few final Santander restaurant tips.
Santander Tapas-Hopping
As tapas restaurants are some of the best places to dine, one of the fun ways to eat a meal in Santander is by hopping from one to the next.
Two famous Santander tapas streets – Calle Arrabal and Calle del Medio – are the perfect place to embark on a Tapas Hop.
We also recommend the tapas at La Esquina del Arrabal (a quaint corner bar with sensational Pinchos) and Bocarte (try the Pulled Pork Sandwich).
Beyond Tapas: More Things To Eat in Santander
While we love grazing on bite-sized meals, there are a few more Santander foods worth mentioning.
Stews
The Cantabria region is known for its specialty stews. Cocido Montanes (Mountain Stew) is a hearty soup of white beans, pork (including bacon, ribs and chorizo) and leafy greens (such as cabbage or kale).
Cocido Lebaniegu is another stew made from chickpeas, potatoes, leafy greens and pork meat. The best restaurant in Santander to try these is Bodega Fuente De.
Burgers
Hamburgers might not be a part of typical Spanish cuisine, but there are a number of burger joints in Santander that are putting their own spin on the international classic.
Hamburgueseria Goiko is far and away the city’s premier burger restaurant – and their Kevin Bacon Burger is out of this world! The huge meat patty is infused with bacon bits and topped with American Cheese. All we can say is YUM!
Santander Desserts
We have highlighted what to eat in Santander for savory meals, but it would be remiss not to mention a few places to satisfy that sweet tooth.
Regma is the favorite local ice cream. While they keep the flavors fairly simple (vanilla is their best seller), the shop is known for doling out humungous scoops.
Churros y Chocolate is another sugary dessert in Santander – and Chocolateria Aliva serves the finest in town.
Cheesecake is wildly popular, but we never got a chance to try it. The already mentioned Amarella Café and Canadio – along with the upscale Cadelo Restaurant – all get super ratings on their cheesecakes.
Hours of Operation
Always check the opening hours for restaurants in Santander. Many close for siesta – although a few (like Mercato del Este, Amarella Cafe and Casa Lita) remain open throughout the day.
Also note that hours for sit-down meals are much later in Spain than other parts of the world. Lunch is usually eaten around 2 or 3pm and dinner not until 9 or 10 at night. Tapas, however, are usually available from midday until closing.
Make Reservations for Restaurants in Santander
The most popular spots can get quite busy. To guarantee you get a table, check to see if you can make a reservation in advance. Alternatively, arrive early (or when they re-open for dinner) to ensure you get a seat.
Use Google Translate
Be aware that not all menus in Santander are available English – and servers may only speak Spanish. Furthermore, some items don’t translate well. In that case, we tried our best and just rolled with it!
Cost of Eating at Restaurants in Santander
Santander food prices tend to be quite affordable – especially for tapas. Pinchos typically cost less than 4 euros per item and half-raciones can be had for less than 10 euros.
Do note that prices for bar top tapas (and glasses of wine) are not always listed. If you are curious, don’t be afraid to ask. The staff we encountered during our trip were incredible friendly and helpful.
Santander Food Tour
A local guide can provide a valuable and fun introduction to the regional cuisine. Joining a highly rated food tour in Santander – like this one – can be an entertaining experience!
Santander Food Markets
Marketplaces are also a wonderful way to get to know the local foods. The biggest and best Santander farmers market is Mercado de La Esperanza. It features more than 80 vendors selling in-season produce, regional meats, local cheeses and fresh fish.
Organize Your Trip to Santander
As you begin making reservations, organization is key. Use our Printable Travel Planner to stay on top of all the details of your Spain trip!
Start planning your trip to Spain! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Spanish Food Adventures
Craving more good food in Spain? We’ve noshed our way through the country and have rounded up reviews of what and where to eat!
- A First Taste of Pintxos in Hondarribia
- Best San Sebastian Pintxos
- Top Tapas in Barcelona
- What To See, Do and Eat in Madrid
- Fun Seville Tapas Bars
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