Tapas in Washington DC: the classics we serve and how to order them
6 min readIn this story
- Summary | La Taberna del Alabardero DC
- What are tapas and how to order them
- Our classic tapas menu: descriptions and prices
- How many tapas should you order per person?
- Tapas for groups and our exclusive happy hour
- Perfect Spanish wine pairings for your tapas
- Questions about tapas at La Taberna del Alabardero
- Ready to experience the taste of Spain in DC?
If you are wondering where to eat traditional Spanish tapas in Washington DC, the answer is La Taberna del Alabardero, located at 1776 I St NW. As the capital’s premier Spanish culinary embassy, we serve the most authentic tapas daily for both lunch and dinner. Conveniently situated just steps away from Farragut West, the K Street corridor, and the White House, we offer an unparalleled gastronomic journey. Whether you are looking for a quick bite after a long day of meetings or the best tapas in DC for a lively weekend dinner, our doors are open to provide you with the true taste of Spain.
Summary | La Taberna del Alabardero DC
- Authentic culinary heritage: Located at 1776 I St NW, we serve traditional Spanish tapas in a sophisticated atmosphere, strictly utilizing premium imported ingredients from Spain, such as 100% Ibérico and Serrano ham, authentic Manchego cheese, and Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO).
- Vibrant happy hour: We host one of downtown DC’s best Happy Hours on weekdays from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at our bar and patio. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, featuring around 30% off selected tapas and highly popular, refreshing cocktails like the Midori and Cucumber Zen.
- Expert wine pairings: Our sommeliers personalize your experience by recommending the perfect Spanish wines from our cellar. Popular picks are the Albariño Mar de Viñas or robust reds like Valduero and Embruix. But there is one for you based on your preference for dry, acidic, sweet, or fruity profiles.
What are tapas and how to order them
Tapas are much more than just small plates; they represent a vibrant lifestyle and a deeply rooted Spanish tradition of sharing, socializing, and savoring the moment. Originating in the taverns of Spain as a small bite to accompany a glass of wine, the culture of “el tapeo” has evolved into a sophisticated dining experience.
When visiting a traditional tapas restaurant DC style, the key is collaboration. Instead of ordering individual entrees, the table orders a variety of dishes to share. This communal approach allows you to taste a wider spectrum of flavors, from the richness of cured meats to the brightness of fresh seafood. Our expert waitstaff at La Taberna del Alabardero is always ready to guide you, ensuring your selections create a harmonious tasting menu that captures the essence of Spanish cuisine.
Our classic tapas menu: descriptions and prices
To deliver the most authentic spanish tapas dc has to offer, our culinary team relies on time-honored recipes and premium ingredients directly imported from Spain. Below is a selection of our most beloved classics to help you plan your next visit:
| Classic tapa | Description and key ingredients | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Gambas al Ajillo | Sizzling shrimp cooked to perfection in imported Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil, toasted garlic, and a hint of chili. A fragrant, highly satisfying classic. | $19.00 |
| Croquetas de Jamón Serrano | Golden, crispy fritters with a meltingly soft béchamel center, deeply flavored with bits of imported Spanish Serrano ham. | $15.00 |
| Jamón Serrano con Queso Manchego | The ultimate Spanish pairing: thinly sliced, premium Serrano ham served alongside wedges of authentic, aged Manchego cheese. | $21.00 |
| Pulpo a la Gallega | Tender Galician-style octopus elegantly presented over warm potatoes, finished with a generous dusting of Spanish paprika and EVOO. | $22.00 |
| Tortilla de Patatas | The legendary Spanish omelet made with gently confited potatoes, onions, and eggs. Comforting, thick, and traditionally prepared. | $14.00 |
| Calamares a la Andaluza | Andalusian-style fried squid rings. Lightly battered and fried to a crisp, tender perfection, served with a bright aioli. | $18.00 |
Note: Prices are subject to change and do not include tax and service charge. Please consult our official menu for the most up-to-date information.
How many tapas should you order per person?
One of the most frequent questions we receive from guests exploring tapas in Washington DC is how much food to order. Our servers use a simple golden rule to ensure a perfectly balanced meal.
Generally, each tapa is generously portioned to act as a “half-size” of a standard main course. If your group is exclusively eating tapas for dinner, we recommend ordering 2 tapas per person. This allows for a robust, satisfying meal. However, if your appetite is lighter, or if you plan to follow up with a main course like our famous Paella, 1 tapa per person is an excellent starting point. Our recommendations are always tailored to what else you plan to order. And remember, true to American dining convenience blended with Spanish hospitality, you can always pack up whatever delicious bites you have left over!
Tapas for groups and our exclusive happy hour
Tapas are inherently designed for group celebrations, making them the ideal choice for after-work gatherings, diplomatic meetups, and celebrations with friends. To elevate this experience, La Taberna del Alabardero offers a legendary Happy Hour that caters to the bustling energy of downtown DC.
Available weekdays from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, our Happy Hour takes place in our elegant front bar area and our beautiful outdoor patio. Seating is strictly on a first-come, first-served basis, making it the perfect spontaneous escape. During these hours, guests can enjoy a curated selection of our classic tapas and beverages at an exceptional value, typically featuring around a 30% discount.
If you want to pair your bites with something other than wine, our mixologists have you covered. Our most popular Happy Hour cocktails right now are the Midori and the Cucumber Zen, both incredibly refreshing, visually stunning, and perfect for unwinding on our patio after a busy day in the capital.
Perfect Spanish wine pairings for your tapas
No tapas experience is complete without the perfect glass of wine. Our extensive cellar boasts some of the finest vintages from across the Iberian Peninsula. When you dine with us, our sommelier will warmly inquire about your palate preferences: Do you prefer a wine that is dry, acidic, sweet, or one with a lingering fruity finish?
For those indulging in lighter fare, such as our Gambas al Ajillo or Calamares a la Andaluza, we highly recommend the Albariño Mar de Viñas. This crisp, highly refreshing white wine from the Rías Baixas region cuts through the richness beautifully with its bright acidity.
If you are leaning toward our savory meats, like the Croquetas or the Jamón con Queso Manchego, a robust Spanish red is in order. Our team frequently recommends the elegant Valduero, the classic Viña Otano, or the increasingly popular and bold Embruix (from the Priorat region) to beautifully complement the deep, savory notes of the imported Spanish pork and aged cheeses.
Questions about tapas at La Taberna del Alabardero
Are your ingredients really imported from Spain?
Yes! To maintain the highest level of authenticity, we import key ingredients directly from Spain, including our 100% Ibérico and Serrano hams, authentic Manchego cheese, and premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Can I reserve a table just for happy hour?
Our weekday Happy Hour (3:00 PM to 7:00 PM) in the bar and patio area operates on a first-come, first-served basis. However, you can always make a standard dining reservation for our main dining room.
Are there vegetarian tapas available?
Absolutely. Our Tortilla de Patatas is a classic vegetarian staple, and our full menu features several other vegetable-forward Spanish delights.
Ready to experience the taste of Spain in DC?
Don’t wait for your next trip to Madrid to enjoy world-class Spanish cuisine. Reserve your table on OpenTable today to secure your spot at La Taberna del Alabardero.
Want to explore more of our culinary offerings? Browse our complete Menus or plan your next after-work gathering by checking out the details of our famousHappy Hour. We look forward to welcoming you to our home in Washington DC!
