Location: 10 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001
Cuisine: Spanish Tapas
Price: $$
Rating: 4.5/5
A Taste of Spain, Tucked Beneath Hudson Yards
Nestled inside the bustling food court of Mercado Little Spain, La Barra brings a slice of Madrid and Barcelona to the heart of New York. The space is cozy yet vibrant, filled with romantic tunes, upbeat chatter, and the warm, rustic charm of a true Spanish tapas bar. The vibe is lively but never overwhelming—like you’ve stepped into a tucked-away plaza café where the locals go. It’s authentic, soulful, and layered with intention, from the decor to the flavors on each plate.
The menu was thoughtfully balanced, with highlights like the kimchi fried rice, expertly prepared with crispy, tender chicken katsu and a thin, crispy egg layer on a hot iron plate that added richness to the dish. The Tomahawk ‘Galbi’ was outstanding—tender, evenly cooked, and bursting with flavorful beef.
Weina Li – 5 Star Google Review
Walking into La Barra, you’re instantly transported out of Manhattan and into the heart of Spain. Located in the Mercado Little Spain food court beneath Hudson Yards, this tapas spot captures the soul of Spanish dining with its warm energy, inviting decor, and effortless charm. The space is lively yet intimate—perfectly balancing vibrant conversation with a mellow, romantic atmosphere that feels both authentic and elevated.
The menu leans upscale but stays approachable, offering thoughtfully crafted Spanish tapas that feel both refined and familiar. Every dish is designed for sharing, making it a great spot for those looking to sample a range of bold, authentic flavors without committing to a full meal. Service is quick, professional, and helpful—especially for those unfamiliar with Spanish cuisine. While the portions are small, the quality and presentation are top-tier, and though the bill can add up, the overall experience feels well worth the splurge.
Here are my three must-order dishes:
- Pulpo a la Gallega: Smoky, tender octopus delicately laid over creamy mashed potatoes, drizzled with rich olive oil and a hint of Spanish paprika, delivering a perfectly balanced bite that lingers with warmth and depth.
- Ensaimada Planchada: A warm, flaky Mallorcan pastry grilled to perfection, filled with savory chorizo and nutty Mahón cheese, then balanced by a drizzle of honey that adds just the right touch of sweetness to each bite.
- Carrilleras de Cerdo: Melt-in-your-mouth pork cheeks nestled in a silky olive oil potato purée, delivering rich, slow-cooked comfort in a refined and flavorful package.
Final Thoughts
La Barra delivers an authentic taste of Spain through bold, vibrant flavors and a lively yet cozy atmosphere. From the smoky, perfectly cooked Pulpo a la Gallega to the sweet-and-savory layers of the Ensaimada Planchada, and the comforting richness of the Carrilleras de Cerdo, every dish is intentionally crafted and beautifully presented. With professional service, romantic energy, and a menu that transports you straight to Madrid, this is a must-visit destination for anyone craving elevated Spanish tapas in the heart of NYC.
Austin Lee wrote this article.
La Barra’s Location
La Barra is located at 10 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001
Little Spain’s Website
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