Spanish Diner

Nestled in the heart of Bethesda, Maryland, Spanish Diner offers an inviting, authentic taste of Spain with a focus on traditional yet straightforward dishes that evoke the warmth of a family kitchen. This Spanish restaurant and tapas bar masterfully blends the casual charm of a diner with the vibrant flavors of European and seafood cuisine, making it a delightful destination for families and lovers of small plates alike.

Step inside Spanish Diner and you’ll immediately notice the cozy, unpretentious ambiance where rustic wood accents and simple décor create an intimate setting perfect for savoring shared meals. Whether you’re stopping by for a lively happy hour or a leisurely lunch, the atmosphere feels relaxed yet vibrant, mirroring the convivial spirit of Spanish dining.

The menu stands out for its tempting variety of traditional Spanish dishes. Among the highlights is the Family Feast: Fiesta Española For 4 — a generous spread featuring Aceitunas Aliñadas (marinated olives), crisp and creamy Croquetas, spicy patatas bravas, classic tortilla de patatas, succulent Gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and the fresh, tangy Ensalada Ucraniana. This vibrant combination delivers a feast of flavors, textures, and colors that truly transport you to Spain’s bustling tapas bars.

For a hearty and soul-warming experience without the fuss, the Menu Del Dia De Albondigas is a crowd-pleaser. It features tender Albondigas con Arroz (Spanish meatballs with rice), accompanied by olives, refreshing glasses of Gazpacho, crusty Pan con Tomate (bread with tomato), and a creamy flan for a sweet finish. Not to be overlooked is the Menu Del Dia De Coliflor that includes rich, velvety Coliflor con Bechamel, offering comfort food Spanish style.

As for desserts, Spanish Diner excels in comforting classics that feel like a warm hug. The Arroz Con Leche — a luscious rice pudding from Asturias — brings gentle sweetness and creamy textures that soothe the palate. Meanwhile, the Flan De Mama Marisa, rooted in renowned chef José Andrés' family recipe, is decadently smooth and served with airy whipped cream, and the Tarta De Chocolate Y Queso San Sebastian features the beloved “burnt” goat cheesecake with an inviting chocolate twist.

The carefully curated beverage list complements the food perfectly, featuring Spanish imports such as sparkling and still Sant Aniol water, and unique non-alcoholic options including Kas sodas and Mexican Coke, all enhancing the authentic dining experience.

Guests often praise the attentive and friendly service, creating a welcoming environment that makes you feel like a regular from the start. While some diners have noted minor shortcomings like the occasional strong scent in the paella or the practicality of oversized serving spoons, most reviews celebrate the genuine, home-cooked flavors that bring a slice of Spain to Bethesda.

Whether you’re seeking the simple pleasure of sharing tapas with friends or craving a hearty, nostalgic family meal, Spanish Diner delivers heartfelt Spanish cuisine with a straightforward charm. It’s a place where authenticity meets comfort — a true homage to the tradition of eating well, together.

Spanish Diner
7271 Woodmont Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814
Phone: +1 301-284-3700