In search of a new favorite spot for Spanish cuisine? Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top Spanish restaurants around Minneapolis, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of where to fill the bill.
1. Rincón 38
Topping the list is Rincón 38. Located at 3801 Grand Ave. South in Kingfield, it is the highest-rated Spanish restaurant in Minneapolis, boasting 4.5 stars out of 216 reviews on Yelp.
The spot has an extensive tapas menu that includes options such as Vieras (seared scallops, citron asparagus, caper butter sauce, spinach and fennel slaw with garlic bread); Paella Sevillana (pork tenderloin, beef tenderloin tips, pimento chicken tenders, spicy sausage and peppers cooked in saffron rice, parsley and lemons); and Queso Frito (fried Manchego cheese served with a fennel slaw).
A large list of domestic and international wines are on offer, as are happy hour beer specials. Here's the menu.
2. Costa Blanca Bistro
Next up is Costa Blanca Bistro, situated at 2416 Central Ave. NE in northeast Minneapolis. With 4.5 stars out of 90 reviews on Yelp, the New American and Spanish spot has proven to be a local favorite. It comes courtesy of Hector Ruiz, who "takes his inspiration from his family roots in Morelos, Mexico and formal training in Paris, France to create dishes that are unique to the area," the restaurant says on its website.
Look for a variety of tapas and standout menu options such as the Ibiza (seared halibut, shiitake mushrooms, saffron cauliflower, saffron butter sauce, fennel slaw and parsley oil); Langosta (pappardelle pasta, lobster, shrimp, saffron sauce, fennel slaw and radish): and Pulpo (seared octopus, saffron cauliflower, citron asparagus, baby spinach and pimento aioli).
Thirsty? Grab a signature cocktail, beer or red or white wine to pair with your meal. Here's the menu.
3. Sonora Grill
Longfellow's Sonora Grill, located at 3300 E. Lake St., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the Spanish, Latin American and Mexican restaurant four stars out of 201 reviews. Flavors from many Spanish-speaking countries combine at Sonora Grill, which also features a number of tacos and a wall of tequilas.
Breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner fare is available everyday. The expansive menu includes favorites such as bocadillos sandwiches, paella and Argentinian pork empanadas filled with seasoned pork and served with poblano cream and cotija cheese. A full service bar is on-site. Here's the menu.
