The best tapas in Brighton

One of the North Laine's best dining destinations, Tinto Taperia is romantic enough for a memorable date while remaining relaxed enough for a casual catch-up with family or friends. The menu at this tapas bar naturally features a varied selection of authentic Spanish tapas, accompanied by classic Spanish dishes like paella and an excellent selection of fortified wines, liquors, and gins. Outdoor seating for watching North Laine life go by is available as well.

Between Brighton and Hove you'll find La Tapa Loca, a contemporary tapas bar decked out in natural tones and materials reflecting its commitment to sustainability. The aesthetically soothing venue serves food all day long, but if you're after tapas, you'll want to skip brunch and arrive later in the day to enjoy seasonal small plates alongside well-chosen wines and a friendly neighbourhood ambiance.

Casa Don Carlos remains a dependable go-to tapas restaurant in Brighton for anyone craving a true taste of Spain, complete with chequered tablecloths, colourful wall art, and the odd Spanish flag thrown in to drive the point home. The restaurant serves hearty portions of traditional Spanish fare, including an assortment of classic tapas, often finished at the table for extra oomph. It's a lively, convivial place, the kind that should always be in your back pocket for family meals or impromptu group bookings.

Market brings sunny Spanish flavours to Brighton, with a menu of dainty tapas dishes served in a buzzy, Iberian-feeling space. The likes of porchetta, gambas pil pil, and sardines are all available here, accompanied by a cracking wine list ranging from Spanish bodegas to organic European selections. With counter seating and small tables, this Brighton tapas bar is equally suited to date nights and long, chatty dinners.

A leading vegetarian restaurant in Brighton, Terre à Terre is highly acclaimed for its creative small plates and playful presentation. The tapas section of the menu features dishes made with ingredients and inspiration from around the world, including options like pimento berbere dip with fried lavash bread, or zaru soba salad. If you're having trouble choosing, you can order the signature Terre à Verre tapas plate with all their favourites.

Charming tapas restaurant and delicatessen Solera is the sort of spot that immediately makes you welcome, regardless of whether you've ever been to Spain before. The unpretentious restaurant serves classic Spanish tapas and fine wines from Spain in a convivial atmosphere. If you enjoy your meal, make sure to check out the deli section, where charcuterie, cheeses, and other artisanal Spanish products are available to take home.

A short stroll from the seafront, Brisa is a collaboration between three friends who set out to showcase genuine Spanish cooking and hospitality in Brighton. The tapas bar's colourful decor and upcycled pieces create a relaxed, social setting ideal for easy dinners and long conversations. The menu spans a broad range of traditional tapas, offering plenty of classic choices to wash down with a glass of Spanish sherry or two.

Despite its name, Paris Wine Bar is found in Hove and doesn't require hopping on a ferry to reach. Clad in warm leather and dark tones, with a spacious garden out back, this bistro has taken the concept of Spanish tapas and given it a pan-European makeover – expect things like chicken thigh skewers or salmon croquettes. The food is accompanied by a robust wine list, seasonal cocktails, and professional service.