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    El Rincon de Rafa

    4.4 (36 reviews)
    ModerateSpanish, Basque
    Open 12:00 pm - 11:00 PM

    El Rincon de Rafa Photos

    EL RINCON DE RAFA ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Good for groups
    Good for kids

    Recommended Reviews - El Rincon de Rafa

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    Jonny Q.

    I've gotta say that I do enjoy tapas - there's just something nice about sharing food with friends and not knowing what food is gonna come next. In fact because we had a large table, that was exactly what happened as we ordered off of their group party menu (£14.50 each) where we had a couple of portions of each dish brought over to our table through the night. The setting is fantastic - like a proper little Spanish enclave underground and the staff and general feeling were as authentic as you can get. I especially liked the range of Spanish beers they had on tap (sometimes places can just be lazy and pop just San Miguel on tap but they had at least 4 on tap and others in bottles) The highlights of the food had to be the meatballs, the patatas bravas and the bowl of paella you get for the table was also pretty decent (so much food for such a reasonable price) We didn't have dessert as we nipped down to MFDF for churros but I'm sure I'll be back again soon for a starter, main and dessert - plus of course a few nice beers!

    Bader A.

    Pros: Delicious authentic Spanish food. The waiters are very friendly. The atmosphere is great. Highly recommend the Paella and the fried sardines, and they have the best green olives in town. Cons: Lots of stairs to get down to the restaurant, wasn't convenient with baby strollers.

    It's pronounced raaa peyyy guys come on!!

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    14 years ago

    The best tapas I've had in the UK. A lot of the staff are Spanish. The place is always busy. Be prepared to wait for a table.

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    18 years ago

    A hidden gem. See the stars of Corrie here! LOL Perfectly authentic cuisine if not served a little erratically. Delicate tastes.

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    Review Highlights - El Rincon de Rafa

    It's not the place you can randomly find on your way, since the main entrance is in a dark and narrow pathway just behind Deansgate.

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    Pinchjo's

    Pinchjo's

    4.1(7 reviews)
    3.5 miWest Didsbury
    ££

    I have to say, I didn't think Pinchjo's was very good which seems to put me at odds with basically…read moreeveryone else that has been there including my two fellow diners. So maybe I am just wrong. But let me explain. The prices were great - all the dishes were £2.50 - £3 (I think this is a Monday - Thursday deal) which frankly is so cheap these days it's almost not worth complaining about the food. However, I really didn't think the food was that great. Calamari and patatas bravas were just ok. The calamari came with something that was supposed to be chilli and garlic mayo but which tasted like thousand island dressing. Good quality plain alioli would have been much better. Patatas bravas were a little soggy, obviously there's a sauce on them but they should retain some crispness rather than being drenched in it, generally. Maybe this is just the house style. Gambas pil pil I thought kind of had a strange taste which I suspect was something to do with the oil. You get five prawns which is a good portion size but overall this dish was disappointing, especially when compared for example with the incredibly good gambas al ajillo at Tapas Brindisa in London Bridge (to be fair, those cost £8.95 - for a small plate!) Finally the tortilla. Tortilla española is one of my favourite dishes in the world. Done well, it is one of the most delicious things you will ever eat, despite its simple ingredients. One time I had a tortilla in a baguette, which was one of the biggest and best meals of my life. Unfortunately I almost immediately afterwards went home to my host family to find out that grandpa had slaughtered a goat from his farm for me, which I then also had to eat. This tortilla, however, was really bad. It was very soggy, it had no flavour, you could barely tell there were potatoes in it, let alone onions. Maybe there weren't onions in it at all, actually, but then don't call it Spanish omelette. It was basically just egg and what looked like spinach. What I can say for it is that there were 3 slices, which was generous. The restaurant appearance and atmosphere is nice and service was pleasant and I was impressed when our server came over to apologise for the food being delayed (we hadn't been waiting inordinately long at that point). But overall I guess we did wait quite a while as we weren't really sharing it was a bit awkward when 2 people got most of their stuff way before the other 1. Not that big a deal though really.

    As someone who has lived in Spain for a number of years, I'm always quite wary of tapas bars in the…read moreUK that claim to have British twist. I'm a classic purist, believing that if something has worked for centuries there's no need to modify a winning formula. The thing about Pinchjo's though, is Jo's enthusiasm and charm, which translates directly into the food he prepares and the atmosphere of the decor. It really does look like a basque bar with its classic bar seating and traditional wooden furniture. The latin music immediately lifts your spirits and it's clear the staff here are enjoying themselves, they're so friendly and smiley. The food, based on Basque pintxos (tapas mounted on little rounds on bread), I have to admit, are welcome modifications to classic dishes. Yes, I take it back. The chorizo cooked in white wine was sublime, as was the pan-fried red mullet with salsa verde. Washed down with my favourite South American beer, I was a happy chappy indeed.

    Photos
    Pinchjo's
    Pinchjo's
    Pinchjo's

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    Bilbao Pintxos&Tapas Bar

    Bilbao Pintxos&Tapas Bar

    4.5(2 reviews)
    36.1 miHolbeck Urban Village, City Centre
    ££

    It's pretty new, it's pretty pleasant, it's pretty pretty…read more Bilbao's reputation definitely preceded them, so after having heard a few wax the ol' lyrics about this place, I decided to give them a whirl. I'm all about the tapas eats in general, being the type who likes to choose as much variety of a meal out as possible, so Bilbao was always going to make me happy. I feel as though I'll have to come back to experience the heady heights others had told me about, since my visit was fine (certainly not disappointing -- so I've gone for four instead of three stars) but it didn't wow as much as I expected. Perhaps it's the classic pitfall of having high expectations after hearing such good press?! We went in on Saturday sans booking and managed to grab a seat straight away. (It was the last one, so we were pretty lucky.) One of the waitresses did her best to serve us promptly, although she was pretty rushed off her feet. The only downside to the service was that we spotted another waitress who could have seen to us sooner (and even smiled at us) but chose to natter at the bar -- it was quite some time before we got to order a drink. Every other person who served us was absolutely fantastic, though, which ought to be noted. We picked one dish each for ourselves and then three to share and --with a dessert-- this was plenty of food. We shared the olives (super garlicky, which I liked), the garlic prawns (shelled for us and marinated in ultra delish garlicky butter), and a pork dish. The pork pieces were cooked beautifully and came with these incredible oyster mushrooms. I had the steak, which was tasty and cooked well (how I'd asked) but didn't blow me away -- I think this was simply because I'd had the most amazing steak elsewhere very recently! We also shared a bottle of rioja, which was totally lovely. The desserts were great too: warm gooey brownie and a traditional Spanish dessert with sponge, cream, and torched sugar on top. (Forgive me for forgetting the name!) The overall ambiance is fine, although I'd say next time I'd like to sit at a lower table as the high chairs weren't optimal to sit and eat in. The music was also curious -- it sort of seemed to be so purposefully background it stood out to us, if that makes any sense. Gentle, romantic lighting and a pleasant space make up for that, though -- especially if in a group. I imagine the experience is even better with more friends to share with! Overall, this one merits a second visit. Five dishes and one bottle of wine: £60 odd. On a Monday it's half price, so you'll get a lot more bang for your bunse. Check them out!

    Came here on a recommendation and wow did it deliver!! Food was amazing! Service was great and had…read morea lovely chat with the owner and you can tell the passion they put into the food and overall experience! I will be coming back and shouting from the roof tops to anybody who will listen how good this place is !

    Photos
    Bilbao Pintxos&Tapas Bar
    Bilbao Pintxos&Tapas Bar
    Bilbao Pintxos&Tapas Bar - Patatas

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    Patatas

    La Rioja

    La Rioja

    4.3(8 reviews)
    7.6 miAltrincham
    ££

    I like this Spanish restaurant, it's definitely got "character" - by that I mean, it allows me to…read moreenjoy a glass of wine and then giggle like a schoolgirl when I try and pronounce the name: Ree-ho-HA! Much to the consternation of my dining partner! Thankfully, aside from the name, there's not much else you can have a go poking fun at. The food is superb and varied - there's the obligatory paella, and yes on one occasion making go-with-what-you-know choice I dined on it (highly recommended!) but there's also a range of chicken, fish and many more typically meaty Spanish dishes to selecy from the menu, that you could may I add spend at least the better part of 20 minutes perusing. Tapas ranges from £1.95 - £4.95 Bare floorboards and intimate dining make you feel part of a tiny world of gastronomic happiness, On a dark winter (or summers) night, mixed with candle light and the aroma of a heady bottle of Alta Rio Reserva, you would need little more to be feel transported to Las Ramblas

    This has got to be one of the biggest tapas menus I've seen outside of London...and Spain! It's…read morenice to see they've got the kind of dishes I've been pining after since my return to Blighty. Firm favourites include Costilla (marinated spare ribs), Albondigas (Spanish meatballs) and Mejillones (mussles marinated in wine, lemon and herbs). Apart from the tapas menu, they also have some very traditional dishes on the A la Carte menu including Chuletas de cordero (grilled marinated lamb chops) and Cod catalana (cod fillet suated with garlic, shallots, cream and wine topped with parmesan cheese). Surely this is run by a Spanish family. Delicious.

    Photos
    La Rioja
    La Rioja
    La Rioja

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    Ibérica - Iberica interior

    Ibérica

    4.1(31 reviews)
    0.1 miSpinningfields
    ££

    Called the restaurant an hour in advance and requested if they can seat 12 of us the same evening…read more They were able to accommodate us within an hour so that was awesome! They were so nice and gave the table a round of champagne! Someone got lucky with my extra one! This place was upright amazing! Our service was phenomenal thank you to Claudia and her team! We've pretty much tried everything on the menu from the cheeses to the tapas to the paellas and the desserts. I will list the dishes we had and rate accordingly! Asparagus and cheese 5/5 Eggplant dish 5/5 Octopus dish 10/5 Potato bravas 5/5 Seafood paella 3/5, potent odor and the rice wasn't well done Chicken Paella 4/5 Trip of cheese 4/5 Meatballs 5/5 Ham Croquette (per my friend) 5/5 Chicken confit 5/5 Torrija dessert 100/5 Rice pudding 4/5 Chocolate layers 3/5 Churros 5/5 This restaurant is a fancy establishment and I highly recommend to everyone out there if you want to enjoy a great evening with family/friends.. please make a reservation and definitely come here.

    We found Iberica on Yelp, and we could not be happier. First, the neighborhood is the place to be…read more Lots of people, things happening, good music. We sat inside, upstairs by the window. They first brought a dish of some of the best olives I have ever had. We had s bottle of rosé sparkling wine to start, along with tomato toast and a board with 3 meats and 3 cheeses. The flavors were incredible. For shared plates, we ordered 3 off the special Galician menu. The white asparagus was wonderful, a little of the sea asparagus on top gave just enough salt for the creamy sauce and crumb crunch. The octopus was also incredible. The potatoes were perfectly cooked, with tender pieces of octopus on top, all swimming in butter and topped with paprika. Finally, the scallops were served in the shell, with a crunch, spicy, peppery topping. The service was awesome, with a special shout out to Claudia, she could not have treated us better. Thanks for the digestif! A definite recommendation.

    Photos
    Ibérica - The restaurant

    The restaurant

    Ibérica - Sangria Red

    Sangria Red

    Ibérica - Fried Chorizo Lollipops (back), Patatas Bravas (front) and olives (right)

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    Fried Chorizo Lollipops (back), Patatas Bravas (front) and olives (right)

    Roja Pinchos - Pinxo's !

    Roja Pinchos

    4.0(2 reviews)
    30.4 mi
    ££

    Berry St. has become a hub for small restaurants and bars and Roja Pinchos sits well amongst the…read moremayhem. Your palate will be convinced you have wondered into a bar in San Sebastián or Vitoria-Gasteiz and you will be gagging for a shot of txakoli to go with your pintxos. Simple ordering principle means you choose short sticks @£1.50 or tall sticks @£3 and they will serve up whatever is fresh on the day. If I could find fault here it is relative to the service suffering when they are particularly busy but, even though the kitchen may choke, the Spanish waitstaff are brilliant and take the time to make sure you are kept updated. From the alcohfrolics point of view they have scored a Bullring bullseye with their locally made Gin & Cava cocktail bar downstairs and having draught Estrella Damm and Alhambra scores massive points for those yearning for some Basque ambiance. I have been here multiple times now cos, as you already know, I like a side of food with my drinks and the small plates they serve are more'ish and authentic. Don't forget to finish off with some Cava & the Churro's and all you will be missing is some Spanish sunshine on your face :) #Olé,OléOlé,Oléééééé

    Delicious!!! Everything was so good. This was the first time our kids (12 and 14) have tried Tapas…read more Although they were hesitant they tried everything we ordered and they loved it! The service was fantastic as well. Super friendly and helpful. So good. We are just visiting from the States or this would be a regular stop for us. We were so full but we tried the desserts ... AMAZING!!

    Photos
    Roja Pinchos - The meaning of it all :)

    The meaning of it all :)

    Roja Pinchos - Dates filled with Ricotta

    Dates filled with Ricotta

    Roja Pinchos - From  their website

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    From their website

    Levanter Fine Foods - Bread. Fluffy and soft.

    Levanter Fine Foods

    5.0(4 reviews)
    12.1 mi
    £££

    Easily one of the best tapas restaurants in Greater Manchester, Levanter has a great drinks menu…read more(vermouth, sherry and Spanish beer available as well as a solid and inexpensive wine menu, including a very drinkable white rioja) and an appealing selection of food. We enjoyed everything we had, namely the chorizo with honey, pig cheeks, sheep's cheese (great chutney), Galician octopus, liver, and boquerones (exquisitely flavoured). Service was excellent, very swift and attentive. Can't wait to go back and try sister pinxto bar Baraxturi!

    When Neil C. said to me 'We're going to go and eat 1kg of steak' I grabbed my keys and ran to the…read moredoor. A short drive away in Ramsbottom lies Lavanter - a specialist tapas and small plates eatery so good that just being inside the place makes you feel like you're holidaying in the Basque region of Spain. It's really lovely. The restaurant is small, but that's what I like about it. To start we ordered a mixed seafood platter and some mixed olives - both outstanding. For the main course we did in fact order 1kg of beef. We chose our steak from a plate brought to us by the chef. He explained where the beef had come from, how it was raised and how he's going to cook it for us. It was cooked, as it should be, rare and seasoned and served on the bone. We also had some padron peppers and a tomato salad to accompany it. I can't fault the food here at Levanter, the service or the experience. If only every restaurant was like this and cared about their food as much as these guys do!

    Photos
    Levanter Fine Foods - Seafood platter

    Seafood platter

    Levanter Fine Foods - Chorizo with tomatoes and honey. Delicious.

    Chorizo with tomatoes and honey. Delicious.

    Levanter Fine Foods - Olives

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    Olives

    El Rincon de Rafa - spanish - Updated May 2026

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