Best Tapas in Leeds: Your Ultimate Guide to Small Plates

Looking for the perfect evening out in Leeds with friends or family? Craving vibrant flavours, sharing plates, and a lively atmosphere? Then get ready to dive into the world of tapas in Leeds! Our city boasts an incredible array of Spanish, Thai and Latin-inspired tapas spots, perfect for sampling small, delicious dishes paired with refreshing sangria, beers, and good company. 

Tapas offers a relaxed and social way of eating in Leeds, allowing you to taste a little bit of everything, which we absolutely love!

Join us as we explore some of Leeds' top tapas spots, each offering their individual take on the classic tapas dish:

Ambiente Tapas

Nestled in the historic Calls Landing building, Ambiente Tapas offers a modern take on Spanish classics within a casual and relaxed environment. Their menu is extensive, featuring everything from traditional Patatas Bravas to Ibérico Pork and Gambas Pil Pil. What sets Ambiente apart is its deep appreciation for sherry, with a vast selection to complement your meal. If the weather is good, grab a spot on their south-facing balcony overlooking the River Aire for a picturesque evening out.

La Taberna Leeds

A hidden gem in the heart of Leeds city centre, La Taberna is a family-run business that prides itself on authentic Spanish tapas. Despite its cosy, intimate basement setting, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxed gathering. Expect classic dishes like Chorizo al Vino (often praised as some of the best), Aubergine Fritters, and sizzling Gambas al Ajillo. Their homemade red and white sangrias are a highlight, dangerously easy to drink and perfectly complement the Spanish food.

El Bareto

Venture out of the city centre and up the road to Chapel Allerton, and you'll discover El Bareto, a Spanish tapas bar that many hail as an authentic Spanish experience. With a quaint, rustic decor, it transports you straight to a traditional Spanish restaurant. Their menu features a wide range of tapas, from various Croquetas (Jalapeño, Jamón, Chorizo) to Garlic King Prawns and hearty Spanish Meatballs. El Bareto also offers a good selection of Spanish beers to enjoy alongside your feast.

Sandinista

For a vibrant and energetic experience, Sandinista brings the spirit of Latin America to Leeds. While known for its lively bar scene and fantastic cocktails, Sandinista also offers a menu of Latin American-inspired tapas. Empanadas, Peruvian Skewers with aji chilli, and their take on Patatas Bravas are great accompaniments to drinks and casual food with friends. It really is the ideal spot for an evening out with friends. Their bar ensures you'll find the perfect cocktail, beer, or sangria to accompany your sharing plates!

Phranakhon Thai Tapas

Switching gears to Southeast Asia, Phranakhon Thai Tapas in Leeds offers a unique twist on the tapas concept. This intimate basement restaurant on York Place provides a cosy yet chic setting to enjoy small plates of authentic Thai cuisine. Their menu combines traditional recipes with modern techniques, featuring a diverse selection from crispy pork belly and aromatic curries to spicy fish cakes and vibrant salads. It's a fantastic choice if you're looking to explore different flavours in a communal, tapas-style setting.