TLDR
Historic Spanish landmark offering authentic tapas and paella. Beloved local gem known for its cozy, neighborhood-oriented bar and vibrant, community-focused atmosphere.
Instagram Posts References
Founded in 1868, La Nacional is a historic restaurant and gathering place for the Spanish immigrant community. It continues to serve as a venue for community events and watching major matches.
Details
Established in 1868, this historic institution serves as a cornerstone of the Spanish immigrant community in New York City [1]. The venue offers an authentic taste of Spain, featuring a cozy cantina that serves classic tapas and paella [2], [3]. While the experience is largely celebrated for its neighborhood-oriented atmosphere and affordability, experiences regarding service and food quality can vary [4], [5].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on traditional Spanish offerings, including popular tapas like croquettes, patatas bravas, and gambas al ajillo [2]. Diners frequently recommend the paella and the 'pincho de tortilla' as casual bar staples [3], [4], though opinions on the overall consistency of the cuisine are mixed [4].
Caveats
Reservations may be difficult to secure, though the cantina often accommodates walk-ins on weekends [2], [6]. Service and food quality may occasionally be inconsistent according to some diner experiences [4].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About LA NACIONAL
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Where Can I Find The Best Spanish Style Churros
"This user disagreed with the negative review of La Nacional, stating it is good, inexpensive, and has wonderful staff."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find The Best Spanish Style Churros
"This user from Spain countered the negative review of La Nacional, stating the service is fine and the food is very good."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find The Best Spanish Style Churros
"This user strongly disagreed with the recommendation for La Nacional, citing horrible service and mediocre food."
NegativeFrom post: Where Can I Find The Best Spanish Style Churros
"This user simply recommended La Nacional."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find The Best Spanish
"The commenter suggests La Nacional for a 'pincho de tortilla' (a slice of tortilla) and believes it's a good place to watch soccer and have a beer. They also give advice on making tortilla at home."
NeutralFrom post: Wheres A Forlorn Gal Taking Herself Out To Dinner
"The commenter highlighted the little bar at La Nacional as a hidden gem, describing it as inexpensive, very neighborhood-oriented, with delicious food and drinks."
PositiveFrom post: Favorite Place For Casual Dinner Near 14th And
"La Nacional is suggested as a dining option, though possibly slightly above casual."
PositiveFrom post: Favorite Place For Casual Dinner Near 14th And
"La Nacional is mentioned as a fun dining option near 14th and 6th Ave."
PositiveFrom post: Pan Con Tomate
"Recommended La Nacional for Spanish cuisine."
PositiveFrom post: Pan Con Tomate
"Included La Nacional as a recommendation alongside Tomino."
PositiveFrom post: Upscale Spanish Restaurant
"This commenter mentioned La Nacional as a place Spanish friends in New York often prefer due to its affordability and ease of reservation, though not specifically for paella."
NeutralFrom post: Upscale Spanish Restaurant
"This commenter agreed that La Nacional is a good option for paella."
PositiveFrom post: Upscale Spanish Restaurant
"This commenter suggested La Nacional as a potential option for paella, considering it might be the next best choice after a closure, but implied it may not be the best."
NeutralFrom post: Two Nights In Nyc Looking For Spanish Tapas And
"La Nacional is highly recommended, with the user noting it can be busy but they've had no issue walking in on weekends. They also mention enjoying Swagat on Amsterdam Ave."
PositiveFrom post: Where To Get Arroz Al Horno
"This commenter also suggested La Nacional as another potential restaurant to try for Arroz Al Horno."
NeutralFrom post: Outdoor Patio Dining Greek Thai Or Chinese In The
"La Nacional on 14th street is recommended for its amazing food and potential outdoor seating, though the commenter has only eaten inside."
Positive