Top 12 International Cuisine Restaurants in Spain
Spain is a gastronomic paradise, celebrated for its rich culinary heritage, from the fresh seafood of the Mediterranean coast to the hearty stews of the interior. Yet, alongside its traditional fare, Spain has embraced a vibrant tapestry of international cuisines. This culinary diversity is a testament to the country’s openness to global influences, a legacy of its historical crossroads. In this article, we explore twelve of the finest international cuisine restaurants across Spain, each offering a unique journey of flavors from around the world. Whether youre in the mood for the delicate spices of India, the sizzling aromas of Japan, or the comforting flavors of Italy, Spain’s international dining scene promises unforgettable culinary experiences. Join us as we embark on a gastronomic tour that takes us from the bustling streets of Madrid to the sun-soaked shores of Barcelona, discovering the best of global cuisine along the way.
El Japonés (Barcelona)
In the heart of Barcelona, El Japonés is a haven for lovers of Japanese cuisine. Set in a minimalist yet inviting space, this restaurant seamlessly blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with a modern twist. The menu is a testament to the art of Japanese cooking, featuring an array of dishes that celebrate the delicate balance of flavors and textures. From the first bite of their signature sushi rolls to the last sip of miso soup, diners are transported to the bustling streets of Tokyo. The chefs at El Japonés are masters of their craft, using only the freshest ingredients to create dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. The sushi bar is a highlight, where guests can watch as skilled chefs prepare nigiri and sashimi with precision and care. For those looking for something heartier, the menu also offers a selection of hot dishes, including tempura, teriyaki, and ramen. Each dish is a work of art, meticulously crafted to showcase the natural flavors of the ingredients. The ambiance at El Japonés is both relaxed and sophisticated, making it the perfect spot for a casual lunch or an intimate dinner. The restaurant’s location in the vibrant El Born district adds to its charm, with its cobbled streets and historic architecture providing a picturesque backdrop. Whether you’re a seasoned sushi lover or a newcomer to Japanese cuisine, El Japonés promises an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of Japan’s culinary heritage.
DiverXO (Madrid)
Located in the heart of Madrid, DiverXO is the brainchild of chef David Muñoz, a culinary visionary who has redefined Spanish fine dining with his avant-garde approach. The restaurant is a sensory playground, where every dish is a work of art that challenges conventional notions of flavor and presentation. With three Michelin stars to its name, DiverXO is a testament to Muñoz’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of gastronomy. The restaurant’s interior is a reflection of its innovative spirit, featuring a whimsical design that combines bold colors, surrealist art, and unexpected details. This playful atmosphere sets the stage for a dining experience that is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. The tasting menu is a culinary odyssey, taking diners on a global tour of flavors inspired by Muñoz’s travels around the world. Each dish is a fusion of cultures, blending traditional Spanish ingredients with techniques and flavors from Asia, Latin America, and beyond. One of the standout dishes is the Peking duck dumpling, a playful twist on the classic Chinese dish, featuring succulent duck wrapped in a delicate dumpling skin and served with a rich hoisin sauce. Another highlight is the Galician beef tataki, a dish that showcases the natural flavors of the beef, enhanced by a smoky char and a zesty citrus dressing. The experience at DiverXO is heightened by the restaurant’s attentive staff, who guide diners through each course with passion and knowledge. Every detail, from the presentation of the dishes to the selection of wines, is carefully curated to create a seamless dining experience that lingers long after the meal is over. DiverXO is a celebration of creativity and innovation, a place where culinary boundaries are meant to be broken. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly unique dining experience in Madrid.
Bodega 1900 (Barcelona)
In the heart of Barcelona’s Eixample district, Bodega 1900 is a tribute to the city’s rich culinary heritage, offering a modern twist on classic Catalan tapas. Founded by the renowned Adrià brothers, Ferran and Albert, the restaurant is a nostalgic nod to the traditional bodegas of Barcelona, where locals would gather to enjoy simple, honest food and good company. The restaurant’s decor reflects this theme, with vintage furnishings, exposed brick walls, and a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes diners feel like they’ve stepped back in time. The menu is a celebration of Catalan cuisine, featuring a selection of tapas that highlight the region’s finest ingredients. From the moment you sit down, you’re treated to a feast of flavors, starting with the famous spherical olives, a dish that pays homage to Ferran Adrià’s revolutionary culinary technique. These delicate spheres burst in the mouth, releasing a burst of olive flavor that sets the tone for the meal to come. The tapas menu is a journey through Catalonia’s culinary landscape, with dishes like escalivada, a traditional roasted vegetable salad, and pan con tomate, a simple yet delicious dish of bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes and drizzled with olive oil. Each dish is a testament to the Adrià brothers’ commitment to preserving the essence of Catalan cuisine while adding their own creative touch. One of the standout dishes is the iberico ham, a delicacy that is served thinly sliced and paired with a glass of cava, a sparkling wine that complements the rich, savory flavors of the ham. The restaurant also offers a selection of conservas, or preserved seafood, a staple of Catalan bodegas. These include mussels in escabeche, anchovies from L’Escala, and tuna belly, all of which are sourced from the finest producers in Spain. Bodega 1900 is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Catalan culture and tradition. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike can come together to enjoy the simple pleasures of life: good food, good wine, and good company. Whether you’re a fan of classic tapas or you’re looking to try something new, Bodega 1900 offers a dining experience that’s both nostalgic and innovative.
StreetXO (Madrid)
In the bustling heart of Madrid, StreetXO is a culinary playground where chef David Muñoz brings his bold, street-food-inspired creations to life. The restaurant is a reflection of Muñoz’s rebellious spirit, blending the vibrant flavors of Asia with the rich culinary traditions of Spain. With its neon lights, graffiti-covered walls, and open kitchen, StreetXO feels more like a bustling street market than a traditional restaurant, creating an atmosphere that’s both energetic and inviting. The menu is a rollercoaster of flavors, with each dish taking diners on a journey through the streets of Bangkok, Tokyo, and beyond. One of the standout dishes is the Peking dumpling, a playful twist on the classic Chinese dish, featuring succulent duck wrapped in a delicate dumpling skin and served with a rich hoisin sauce. Another highlight is the Korean lasagna, a fusion of Italian and Korean flavors that combines layers of pasta with spicy kimchi and tender beef. The Singapore laksa is a must-try, a fragrant noodle soup that’s bursting with flavors of coconut, lemongrass, and chili. The experience at StreetXO is heightened by the restaurant’s open kitchen, where diners can watch as the chefs work their magic, sautéing, grilling, and plating each dish with precision and flair. The staff, dressed in street-style uniforms, add to the lively atmosphere, guiding diners through the menu with enthusiasm and knowledge. StreetXO is a celebration of Muñoz’s passion for street food and his willingness to push culinary boundaries. It’s a place where flavors collide, where traditional dishes are reimagined, and where every bite is an adventure. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or you’re looking to try something new, StreetXO offers a dining experience that’s both exciting and unforgettable.
Pakta (Barcelona)
In the heart of Barcelona’s Poble Sec neighborhood, Pakta is a culinary gem that blends the vibrant flavors of Japan and Peru. Founded by the renowned Adrià brothers, Ferran and Albert, the restaurant is a testament to their love for Nikkei cuisine, a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian culinary traditions. The name Pakta means together in Quechua, reflecting the harmonious blend of these two distinct cultures. The restaurant’s interior is a reflection of this fusion, with a minimalist design that combines elements of both Japanese and Peruvian aesthetics. The menu is a journey through Nikkei cuisine, with each dish showcasing the finest ingredients and techniques from both cultures. One of the standout dishes is the sashimi tiradito, a fusion of Japanese sashimi and Peruvian tiradito, featuring thinly sliced fish marinated in a tangy citrus sauce. Another highlight is the anticucho de pulpo, a Peruvian street food dish that’s been given a Japanese twist, with tender octopus skewers grilled to perfection and served with a spicy miso sauce. The experience at Pakta is heightened by the restaurant’s open kitchen, where diners can watch as the chefs work their magic, preparing each dish with precision and care. The staff, dressed in traditional Japanese kimonos, add to the authentic atmosphere, guiding diners through the menu with knowledge and enthusiasm. Pakta is a celebration of the Adrià brothers’ passion for Nikkei cuisine and their willingness to push culinary boundaries. It’s a place where flavors collide, where traditional dishes are reimagined, and where every bite is an adventure. Whether you’re a fan of Japanese or Peruvian cuisine, Pakta offers a dining experience that’s both exciting and unforgettable.
Enigma (Barcelona)
Tucked away in the heart of Barcelona, Enigma is a culinary wonderland created by the Adrià brothers, Ferran and Albert. This avant-garde restaurant is a journey through the Adrià brothers’ creative universe, where each dish is a carefully crafted work of art. The restaurant’s name reflects its mysterious and ever-evolving nature, with a menu that changes regularly to surprise and delight diners. The experience at Enigma begins with a puzzle-like entrance, where guests are given a code to unlock the restaurant’s hidden door. Once inside, diners are transported to a futuristic world of culinary innovation, with a series of interconnected rooms that each offer a unique dining experience. The restaurant’s design is a reflection of its name, with a minimalist aesthetic that combines sleek lines, soft lighting, and unexpected details. The menu is a journey through the Adrià brothers’ culinary philosophy, with each dish pushing the boundaries of flavor, texture, and presentation. One of the standout dishes is the liquid olives, a signature creation that pays homage to Ferran Adrià’s revolutionary culinary technique. These delicate spheres burst in the mouth, releasing a burst of olive flavor that sets the tone for the meal to come. Another highlight is the smoked eel with apple and wasabi, a dish that combines the rich, smoky flavors of the eel with the crisp sweetness of the apple and the fiery kick of wasabi. The experience at Enigma is heightened by the restaurant’s interactive elements, with dishes that are designed to engage all the senses. From the edible cocktails to the scented napkins, every detail is carefully curated to create a dining experience that lingers long after the meal is over. Enigma is a celebration of the Adrià brothers’ passion for culinary innovation and their willingness to push boundaries. It’s a place where traditional dishes are reimagined, where flavors collide, and where every bite is an adventure. Whether you’re a fan of avant-garde cuisine or you’re looking to try something new, Enigma offers a dining experience that’s both exciting and unforgettable.
Tickets (Barcelona)
In the vibrant heart of Barcelona, Tickets is a culinary theater where the Adrià brothers, Ferran and Albert, bring their creative vision to life. This Michelin-starred restaurant is a celebration of Spanish tapas, reimagined with a playful twist and presented in a whimsical setting. The restaurant’s name reflects its concept, with a menu that’s designed to take diners on a journey through the Adrià brothers’ world of flavors and textures. The experience at Tickets begins with a warm welcome from the staff, who guide diners through the restaurant’s different areas, each offering a unique dining experience. From the lively bar to the intimate dining rooms, Tickets is a feast for the senses, with a vibrant atmosphere that’s both energetic and inviting. The menu is a journey through Spanish cuisine, with each dish showcasing the Adrià brothers’ commitment to pushing culinary boundaries. One of the standout dishes is the liquid olives, a signature creation that pays homage to Ferran Adrià’s revolutionary culinary technique. These delicate spheres burst in the mouth, releasing a burst of olive flavor that sets the tone for the meal to come. Another highlight is the airbags with Manchego cheese, a playful twist on the classic Spanish cheese dish, featuring airy puffs of pastry filled with rich, creamy Manchego cheese. The experience at Tickets is heightened by the restaurant’s interactive elements, with dishes that are designed to engage all the senses. From the edible flowers to the scented napkins, every detail is carefully curated to create a dining experience that lingers long after the meal is over. Tickets is a celebration of the Adrià brothers’ passion for culinary innovation and their willingness to push boundaries. It’s a place where traditional dishes are reimagined, where flavors collide, and where every bite is an adventure. Whether you’re a fan of Spanish cuisine or you’re looking to try something new, Tickets offers a dining experience that’s both exciting and unforgettable.
Alkimia (Barcelona)
In the heart of Barcelona, Alkimia is a culinary gem where chef Jordi Vilà brings his creative vision to life. This Michelin-starred restaurant is a celebration of Catalan cuisine, reimagined with a modern twist and presented in a sleek, minimalist setting. The restaurant’s name, which means alchemy in Spanish, reflects Vilà’s commitment to transforming traditional ingredients into innovative dishes that delight the senses. The experience at Alkimia begins with a warm welcome from the staff, who guide diners through the restaurant’s elegant dining room. With its clean lines, soft lighting, and understated decor, Alkimia is a serene oasis in the bustling city, providing the perfect backdrop for Vilà’s culinary creations. The menu is a journey through Catalonia’s rich culinary heritage, with each dish showcasing Vilà’s mastery of flavor, texture, and presentation. One of the standout dishes is the rice with cuttlefish and artichokes, a modern take on the classic Catalan dish, featuring tender cuttlefish and earthy artichokes in a rich, savory rice. Another highlight is the roasted pigeon with beetroot and black garlic, a dish that combines the succulent flavors of the pigeon with the sweet, earthy notes of the beetroot and the umami-rich black garlic. The experience at Alkimia is heightened by the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability, with a menu that features locally-sourced ingredients and a wine list that highlights biodynamic and organic producers. The staff, dressed in elegant uniforms, add to the sophisticated atmosphere, guiding diners through the menu with knowledge and enthusiasm. Alkimia is a celebration of Jordi Vilà’s passion for Catalan cuisine and his willingness to push culinary boundaries. It’s a place where traditional dishes are reimagined, where flavors collide, and where every bite is an adventure. Whether you’re a fan of Catalan cuisine or you’re looking to try something new, Alkimia offers a dining experience that’s both exciting and unforgettable.
La Tasquita de Enfrente (Madrid)
Nestled in the heart of Madrid, La Tasquita de Enfrente is a beloved institution where chef Juanjo López Bedmar serves up traditional Spanish fare with a modern twist. The restaurant’s name, which means the little tavern across the street, reflects its unassuming charm and commitment to preserving the essence of Spanish cuisine. The experience at La Tasquita de Enfrente begins with a warm welcome from the staff, who guide diners through the restaurant’s cozy dining room. With its rustic decor, soft lighting, and welcoming atmosphere, La Tasquita de Enfrente feels like a home away from home, providing the perfect setting for Bedmar’s culinary creations. The menu is a journey through Spain’s rich culinary heritage, with each dish showcasing Bedmar’s mastery of flavor, texture, and presentation. One of the standout dishes is the callos a la madrileña, a traditional Madrid dish featuring tender tripe in a rich, spicy tomato sauce. Another highlight is the bacalao al pil-pil, a Basque dish that combines flaky cod with a silky garlic and olive oil emulsion. The experience at La Tasquita de Enfrente is heightened by the restaurant’s commitment to quality, with a menu that features the finest ingredients and a wine list that highlights Spain’s diverse wine regions. The staff, dressed in classic uniforms, add to the sophisticated atmosphere, guiding diners through the menu with knowledge and enthusiasm. La Tasquita de Enfrente is a celebration of Juanjo López Bedmar’s passion for Spanish cuisine and his commitment to preserving its traditions. It’s a place where flavors collide, where traditional dishes are reimagined, and where every bite is an adventure. Whether you’re a fan of Spanish cuisine or you’re looking to try something new, La Tasquita de Enfrente offers a dining experience that’s both exciting and unforgettable.
Casa Gerardo (Asturias)
Nestled in the picturesque Asturian countryside, Casa Gerardo is a culinary sanctuary where chef Pedro Morán and his son, Marcos, bring their creative vision to life. This Michelin-starred restaurant is a celebration of Asturian cuisine, reimagined with a modern twist and presented in a warm, inviting setting. The restaurant’s name reflects its rich history, with five generations of the Morán family transforming traditional ingredients into innovative dishes that delight the senses. The experience at Casa Gerardo begins with a warm welcome from the staff, who guide diners through the restaurant’s elegant dining room. With its rustic charm, soft lighting, and welcoming atmosphere, Casa Gerardo feels like a home away from home, providing the perfect backdrop for the Moráns’ culinary creations. The menu is a journey through Asturias’ rich culinary heritage, with each dish showcasing the Moráns’ mastery of flavor, texture, and presentation. One of the standout dishes is the fabada asturiana, a traditional Asturian bean stew featuring tender beans, chorizo, and morcilla in a rich, savory broth. Another highlight is the calamares en su tinta, a dish that combines tender squid with a silky black ink sauce. The experience at Casa Gerardo is heightened by the restaurant’s commitment to quality, with a menu that features the finest ingredients and a wine list that highlights Spain’s diverse wine regions. The staff, dressed in classic uniforms, add to the sophisticated atmosphere, guiding diners through the menu with knowledge and enthusiasm. Casa Gerardo is a celebration of the Moráns’ passion for Asturian cuisine and their commitment to preserving its traditions. It’s a place where flavors collide, where traditional dishes are reimagined, and where every bite is an adventure. Whether you’re a fan of Asturian cuisine or you’re looking to try something new, Casa Gerardo offers a dining experience that’s both exciting and unforgettable.
Azurmendi (Basque Country)
Set amidst the lush greenery of the Basque Country, Azurmendi is a culinary haven where chef Eneko Atxa brings his creative vision to life. This Michelin-starred restaurant is a celebration of Basque cuisine, reimagined with a modern twist and presented in a sleek, eco-friendly setting. The restaurant’s name reflects its commitment to sustainability, with a menu that features locally-sourced ingredients and a wine list that highlights biodynamic and organic producers. The experience at Azurmendi begins with a warm welcome from the staff, who guide diners through the restaurant’s elegant dining room. With its clean lines, soft lighting, and understated decor, Azurmendi is a serene oasis in the heart of the Basque Country, providing the perfect backdrop for Atxa’s culinary creations. The menu is a journey through the Basque Country’s rich culinary heritage, with each dish showcasing Atxa’s mastery of flavor, texture, and presentation. One of the standout dishes is the txangurro, a traditional Basque dish featuring tender spider crab in a rich, tomato-based sauce. Another highlight is the kokotxas al pil-pil, a dish that combines tender cod cheeks with a silky garlic and olive oil emulsion. The experience at Azurmendi is heightened by the restaurant’s commitment to quality, with a menu that features the finest ingredients and a wine list that highlights Spain’s diverse wine regions. The staff, dressed in elegant uniforms, add to the sophisticated atmosphere, guiding diners through the menu with knowledge and enthusiasm. Azurmendi is a celebration of Eneko Atxa’s passion for Basque cuisine and his commitment to preserving its traditions. It’s a place where flavors collide, where traditional dishes are reimagined, and where every bite is an adventure. Whether you’re a fan of Basque cuisine or you’re looking to try something new, Azurmendi offers a dining experience that’s both exciting and unforgettable.
Explore the World on a Plate
Spain’s culinary landscape is a tapestry of flavors, where traditional Spanish dishes coexist with a rich array of international cuisines. From the vibrant streets of Madrid to the sun-soaked shores of Barcelona, the country’s dining scene offers a world of flavors waiting to be explored. Whether you’re in the mood for Japanese sushi, Peruvian ceviche, or classic Italian pasta, Spain’s international cuisine restaurants promise unforgettable gastronomic experiences. So, next time you find yourself in Spain, take a culinary journey around the world without leaving the country, and discover the incredible diversity of flavors that make Spain a true foodie paradise.
