A Foodie's Guide to Dining in Seville
As much as I miss my family, my pup, and my BFFs back home…. I really realllyyyy miss the F O O D. I would do terrible things for a burrito from Roberto’s with a heavy dose of Tapatio, a plate of tuna nigiri from literally any sushi bar on the 101, some yellow curry from Bangkok Bay, and a filet mignon cooked medium rare with a side of creamed corn from Fleming’s. Those are some of my daily daydreams, just to name a few.
We are so used to having an abundance of international foods at our disposal back in the States that living in a country with a specific, traditional type of cuisine can be challenging. I mean, don’t get me wrong... I am not a tapas-hater. I crave a plate of jamón ibérico and queso viejo just like I crave a chicken club from Board & Brew, I’ll order croquetas like I would order a slice of pepperoni pizza from Bongiornos, and you better believe I would easily give up Starbucks for the rest of my life if it meant I could drink a café con leche every morning. I just think it’s hard for ex-pats who are used to variety to be totally satisfied with the repetitive nature of dining in Seville.
But have no fear... I’ve eaten my way through Seville and have compiled a list of my all time fave dining experiences for every occasion. You’re so welcome!
BEST AFTERNOON COFFEE AND CAKE - DULCE TRAZO
I will hold this cafeteria close to my heart forever. I go here almost everyday to work (best wifi in Spain), have an afternoon cafe con leche, or indulge in one of their many pastries, cakes, or tortillas! The women who work here are so, so sweet and always greet me with a warm “Hola chiqui!". If you visit in the summer, try a dulce de leche over ice- YUM! Gluten-free & lactose-free options avail. | Calle Mendez Núñez, 7 ( +34 954 21 96 09) |
BEST LUNCH ON A SHOPPING DAY- THE GOURMET EXPERIENCE, EL CORTE INGLES
One of my favorite places to bring visitors. On top of a the massive department store is a gorgeous rooftop terrace with a view of the whole city. Order a tinto de verano from the 100 montaditos (on tap >>>), a plate of guac or nachos at La Calaca, or a slice of baguette style pizza from the lil Italian place. Sit outside in the shade and enjoy. | Plaza del Duque de la Victoria, 6 (+34 954 59 70 00) |
BEST MODERN TAPAS - LA BRUNILDA & PETIT COMITE
Love both of these places A LOT. Contemporary tapas fusion. La Brunilda: Order the mushroom risotto and solomillo con patatas al tomillo. Get there right on time at 20:30 and be prepared to still wait in a line (if it is the weekend). If you have to wait, you can order a glass/bottle of wine at the bar and bring it outside to sip until your table is ready. Petite Comite: Order the goat cheese toast and salmon carpaccio. You can make a reservation! | B: Calle Galera, 5 (+34 954 22 04 81) | PC: Calle Dos de Mayo, 30 ( +34 954 22 95 95) |
BEST MARKET STYLE MEAL - EL MERCADO LONJA DEL BARRANCO
So trendy! Lots of little stations to choose from. Order a glass of rosé from the Albero y Vino, a mixed plate of rabo de toro / spinach, truffle, mushroom croquettes from the Croqueteria, some tuna nigiri from Mushi, olives in spicy sauce from the olive bar, and maybe a salad or wrap from the La Burratina. Go around sunset and sit outside—you must sit outside. | Calle Aronja S/N, (+34 954 22 04 95) |
BEST SUNDAY NIGHT DRINKS - EL MUELLE NEW YORK
Lots of eye candy, fun + groovy music, classic mixed drinks, mojito station, situated right on the river, suuuper posh, hookah bar, and did I say eye candy? Dress nice and don’t forget your lipstick. This is definitely the most LA scene in Seville. | Paseo de las Delicias, 3 (+34 675 56 74 44) |
BEST ITALIAN/ BREAK FROM TAPAS - OSTERIA L'OCA GIULIVA
DELICIOUS! Cutest little restaurant on an adorably charming street near the Cathedral. I've tried everything... The salad's are like works of art, the pasta is unreal (try the pesto or the truffle mushroom), the pizzas rival those I ate in Italy and make sure to ask for the spicy olive oil. Best to make a reservation. | Calle Mateos Gago, 9 (+34 954 21 40 30) |
BEST BREAKFAST - LA CACHARRERIA
Homemade breads with fresh jams, a huge fresh fruit bowl, lox bagel w/ the works, waffles with Nutella and bananas, and the best mocha I’ve ever had in my entire life. You might have to wait for a table on a busy morning. Order at the bar and don't expect States-style customer service or attention... just wait patiently for the mocha and all will be right in the world. | Calle Regina, 14 (+34 954 21 21 66) |
BEST AMBIANCE - MAMARACHA
Cool interior décor and nicely situated on a side street next to the Cathedral. I like the moderate size & lively atmosphere of this restaurant. The lamb is really effing good if you want to splurge, you must order the paparacha and be prepared to hog it from the whole table, and any of the side dishes are yummy. They also make great sangria-- ask for a tintón! | Calle Hernando Colón, 1 (+34 955 12 39 11) |
BEST ICE CREAM - RAYAS
Order Beso de Dama. Then call me so we can talk about how much you loved the hazelnut chocolate deliciousness that swirled its way through the rich + creamy vanilla base. Hashtag life-changing. | Calle San Pablo, 45 (+34 945 22 06 36) |