La Barra at Mercado Little Spain

While the food at La Barra is good, this is not where you want to have any kind of serious date. It’s loud, overcrowded and poorly spaced out to maximize the amount of butts in seats as possible. Even our lovely waiter could not seem to manage, with multiple sections spaced far apart in the food hall. The sangria is a good choice, as is the ibérico ham and the croquettes which change daily. This place doesn’t seem to know whether it’s a casual family restaurant or a chic tapas place, more suited to suits on a Friday after work hours. That may be due to its proximity to the mall above or its mostly open design. With less expensive food options limited in Hudson Yards, I’d say you’re better off eating at the Spanish Diner adjacent. It’s located in the same food hall, but completely closed off from the rest of the hall, with better ambiance and better menu options. Vegetarian options: None really besides croquettes and patatas bravas. Some tiny salads. Kid-friendliness: Not very. Most of the menu is alcoholic beverages and adult catered canapés.

Best tapas in city.

Good tapas.

The rating is low namely for the food. We ordered the patatas bravas, mussels in tomato sauce, chicken croquettes, and the churros/hot chocolate. First, the patatas were VERY good. That was pretty much as good as it got unfortunately. The mussels in tomato sauce didn't taste very fresh--as I was thinking that my partner said it aloud so I knew it wasn't just me. The croquettes were fine but not very flavorful. The churros were pretty sad--it felt like they had been left out for a while and therefore didn't taste particularly fresh. Additionally, their prices were more expensive than one of the other stalls steps away and itade you wonder if you had paid more for lesser quality. Service was good and the space itself is good but the food was unfortunately meh

Really good vibes and fantastic Tinto wine at the bar top. So good I had 2 glasses (Dominio Fournier) at $20 each. My niece is treating tonight The calamari was average and small in portion. Yes, tapas is supposed to be small plates. I suppose the price can reflect the portions. The tomato bread was good. The octopus was a bit better but nothing outrageous. After 3 plates of tapas, I’m still hungry. Need to get pizza afterwards? I can’t see myself being a regular here except for the wine . Half off bottles on Wednesday is appealing. Good crowd, feels vibrant. Great venue for date night

A delicious piece of Spain in NYC! Tapas prepared fresh with great ingredients, and Spanish wines to pair exquisitely. A hidden Gem on 40th

Each time I’ve visited, I’ve had a lovely experience. The servers are attentive, hospitable, and knowledgeable. That’s what keeps me coming back. We tried a few different wines - most interestingly a Xarelo! We had an exceptional experience with the server, Mario last week!