Business Details
10 Years
experience
Authentic Spanish Dining in Glasgow
Elena's Spanish Bar & Restaurant is a multi award-winning establishment that has redefined authentic Spanish dining in Glasgow since 2016. Founded by Elena, a native of Santander, our culinary philosophy combines locally sourced Scottish ingredients with traditional Spanish techniques and imported specialties. Our team of experienced chefs prepares every dish from scratch, including iconic Spanish desserts like crema Catalana and homemade ice creams. Recognised with prestigious accolades including Best Mediterranean Restaurant at the Food Awards Scotland (2018, 2019, 2021), we offer an immersive Iberian experience through our extensive menu featuring Cantabrian seafood, Iberico ham, and signature paellas.The restaurant's welcoming atmosphere accommodates both intimate dining and larger celebrations, with dedicated outdoor seating and live music events. Our commitment to authenticity extends to our beverage selection, featuring Spanish wines, craft beers, and expertly mixed cocktails. The business has maintained its reputation for excellence through consistent quality, customer-centric service, and a passion for sharing Spain's culinary heritage.
Services
Tapas
Paella
Breakfast
Wine Selection
Takeaway
Private Events
Live Music
Gluten-Free Options
Cocktails
Desserts
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- Award-winning Spanish cuisine since 2016
- Authentic recipes from Santander, Spain
- Combination of Scottish ingredients and Spanish imports
- Extensive menu with vegetarian and gluten-free options
- Recognised for excellence in customer service
Associations and certifications
- Food Awards Scotland
- Scottish Hospitality Awards
- Scottish Enterprise Awards
- Scotland Business Awards
What people say
Authentic Spanish food
Friendly service
Excellent paella
Great atmosphere
Award-winning quality
Services
Authentic Spanish Tapas
Our tapas menu features traditional Spanish small plates including Tortilla Espaola, Gambas al Ajillo, and Pimientos del Padrn. Each dish uses authentic Spanish ingredients combined with locally sourced produce. Vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
Signature Paellas
Handcrafted paellas prepared using traditional methods, including Seafood Paella and Lobster Bisque with Spanish rice. Serves two people, ideal for sharing. Made with fresh Scottish seafood and imported Spanish saffron.
Spanish Breakfast
Traditional Spanish breakfast options including Huevos Rotos, Chorizo with potatoes, and freshly baked bread. Available from 8:30am daily. Features both continental and hot meal options.
Private Events
Venue hire for special occasions including birthdays, weddings, and corporate events. Accommodates up to 50 guests. Features dedicated event coordination and customised Spanish menus.
Takeaway Service
Full menu available for takeaway with quick service. Offers healthy meal options including salads, sandwiches, and traditional Spanish dishes. Available daily for collection.
People
Elena
Owner & Chef
Native of Santander, Spain, with over 20 years culinary experience. Specialises in Cantabrian cuisine and traditional Spanish cooking techniques. Leads kitchen operations and menu development.
Questions
What makes Elena's Spanish food authentic?
Our recipes originate from Santander, Spain. We use traditional Spanish ingredients combined with locally sourced Scottish produce prepared by chefs trained in Spanish culinary techniques.
Do you offer gluten-free options?
Yes, we provide gluten-free alternatives for most dishes including paella, tapas, and desserts using dedicated preparation methods.
What awards have you won?
We've received multiple awards including Best Mediterranean Restaurant at the Food Awards Scotland (2018, 2019, 2021) and Restaurant of the Year in the Scotland Business Awards (2021, 2022).
Can I book for large groups?
Yes, we accommodate groups up to 50 people with private dining areas. Advance booking required for parties of 8 or more.
Do you have outdoor seating?
Yes, we offer heated outdoor seating with views of Glasgow. Available year-round with protective gazebos during colder months.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Contactless payments available for transactions under £100.
Reviews (5)
Ana Castano
Jan 21, 2022
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Its fantastic! The restaurant is pretty cool and on theme. Food is amazing! And the have live music some days.
Philip McCluskey
Dec 30, 2021
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We had a great couple of hours at Elenas today. Service from Andrea was efficient and friendly- as ever. The chilli and tomato sauce with the mussels lifted our spirits on a wet and miserable day. Its just such a nice place to sit and chat and the music is different, and all the better for it. I dont know of another restaurant in Glasgow that is so friendly and has such great food at a perfectly reasonable price. Long May it continue!
Phil and Jenny xx
Phil and Jenny xx
Julie Ross
Nov 21, 2021
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Just the best authentic Spanish tapas, really are the sizes of a Ración portion. So happy they are based in Glasgow!!
Joe Zhou
Nov 11, 2021
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I have been dining here for a few years now. The food was always very authentic and exceptionally tasty. You can tell that the ingredients are fresh, particularly the seafood dishes - absolutely my favourite! They also have good Spanish wine and cocktails. My favourite restaurant in West end! Cheers guys.
Bek Paradzik
Oct 14, 2021
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While the food was tasty, unfortunately the experience was really ruined by fruit flies floating around us all night... Extremely unsanitary and honestly just annoying. One floated into my fianc's beer and they didn't even replace or comp it. Three stars since the food was good, but I think we are being generous considering how uncomfortable the dining experience was.
