We have been coming to Espanol for years and usually spend every Christmas Eve here. Since having a child we have not been able to get there so a very rare night off meant we booked a table for last night.
As soon as we arrived we noticed the atmosphere was not as welcoming as normal and were put on the high stools by the door to dine. We were told they had a large party in who had all the menus so could not offer us one.
This large party that turned out to be just 9 people was mentioned several times to us and the table next to us and we realised they would be the main priority for the evening.
We had our drinks order taken but no drinks appeared. We were given 1 menu and they came to take our order. Before we could start ordering the waitress asked if we were just ordering tapas. We said we were planning to order the chuleton- the most expensive meal on the menu. The flippant response was “our large party of 9 have just reserved them all”
We did something we’ve never done before and decided to walk out. We were so disappointed with the service from the moment we walked in. The restaurant seems to lack it’s authentic charm but had more a feel of a wine bar. I can’t argue that the food is delicious as it was always my favourite and I have recommended to a lot of people. However, based on service alone we will never go there again.
4.8
AMH
Group of us went for dinner a couple of weeks back and had a great night. Food was really good and Moises really looked after us well. Not too many Spanish places around but would recommend Espanol, whether for tapas or something more substantial.
5.0
Megan
My boyfriend and I visited Esponal after hearing such great things about it. The food was incredible and the staff (particularly the owner) were so welcoming! We can't recommend this place enough! We've already made a reservation to go back mid-week when the Tapas dishes are 2-4-1.
4.8
Matt
Thoroughly enjoyed everything about Espanol. The food, service and experience was excellent. Had the Tapas and some specials and will certainly be back to explore more of the menu.
4.0
Adam
Went to Espanol in Poulton last night for the first time since they had the refurb. It’s on two floors now with a new bar area downstairs and an expanded kitchen. The menu’s great for sharing so we had a few tapas dishes before a lively rabbit paella and washed it all down with a nice bottle of Ribera del Duero.
Les Turner
We eat out at least once a week. We ate here a couple of days ago and it was simply the best food that I have eaten in a restaurant for a long long time. Fantastic!
Trisha
Never easy getting a table here at weekends which I guess is the sign of a good restaurant. The place has a really warm and welcoming buzz to it which is partly down to the simple, rustic decor and plenty down to Moses, the friendly Spanish owner who handles front-of-house. There’s paella, of course, plus a rib of beef that comes sliced on a wooden board which is to die for. Lots of other dishes to work your way through both from the main menu and the specials board.
Stuart
Mmmmm the food on a whole was ok but the service and the wait was unacceptable. Very dissatisfied and the livers were over cooked. Not a good experience.
Rachel And Mark
We went last night after hearing good reviews from friends and it was excellent! Food was delicious and the forerib of beef was amazing. Had a thoroughly enjoyable evening and the Spanish waiter and English waitress were most friendly and engaging. Will definitely be a regular visitor from now on!
Aggs
We booked for my birthday having never been before. Atmosphere was excellent, food and wine were excellent, service was slightly bolshy but amusing and showed a real passion for what we were about to receive and our overall thoughts were that we are looking forward to a return to Espanol to try more dishes!
