The Spaniard ranks among West Village’s most exciting spots with its impressive lineup of over 100 whiskey varieties and extensive cocktail menu. This popular bar has made its mark since opening in spring 2017, becoming a standout destination on a bustling Manhattan street.
A signature horseshoe bar anchors the space, while cozy booths line the walls next to a separate dining room. The Spaniard NYC draws packed crowds nightly and stays busy through weekends. Its rugged charm goes together with one another with the drink selection, which they’ve thoughtfully split between House and Whiskey options. The bar’s pedigree comes from the respected Bua Bar Group, who also created other NYC hotspots like Wilfie & Nell, The Wren, and The Penrose.
The Spaniard bar stands out beyond its remarkable whiskey collection—where Scotch makes up half the list. Chef PJ Calapa, who earned his stripes at Ai Fiori and Nobu, crafts creative takes on steakhouse classics. Young professionals flock to this West Village gastropub to enjoy quality drinks in a space that blends timeless and modern appeal.
Table of Contents
- 1 First Impressions: What Makes The Spaniard NYC Stand Out
- 2 Inside the Bar: Layout, Lighting, and Atmosphere
- 3 The Drinks: Whiskey, Cocktails, and Signature Sips
- 4 The Food: Elevated Bar Bites or Overpriced Plates?
- 5 The People Behind It: Irish Roots and NYC Hospitality
- 6 Here are some FAQs about the story of the The Spaniard in NYC:
- 6.1 What is the Spaniard NYC known for?
- 6.2 What was Anthony Bourdain’s restaurant in NYC?
- 6.3 Where is the Taylor Swift Speakeasy in NYC?
- 6.4 Is McLaren’s a real bar in New York?
- 6.5 Where do billionaires stay in NYC?
- 6.6 Is $70,000 a good salary in New York?
- 6.7 Where do celebrities go-to eat in NYC?
- 6.8 What is the #1 rated restaurant in the world?
- 6.9 What food did Anthony Bourdain refused to eat?
First Impressions: What Makes The Spaniard NYC Stand Out
The Spaniard NYC captivates visitors with its unique character. The space artfully mixes old tavern charm with modern touches. You’ll find it on a bustling corner in Manhattan’s charming West Village, where it makes an unforgettable first impression.
A classic tavern feel with a modern twist
Step inside The Spaniard bar and you’ll find a hidden treasure that blends “European tradition with these classic American bars and steakhouses”. The space feels like “sort of an old Irish pub meets a New York tavern”. This welcoming, laid-back setting creates a nostalgic neighborhood vibe.
The Spaniard restaurant stands out by balancing history with contemporary design. Brooklyn-based Home Studios added experimental touches throughout. Art Deco-inspired black marble adorns the walls alongside industrial fixtures with dual-sided globes. Rich emerald green banquettes and vintage Belgium dining chairs wrapped in plush velvet add luxury while keeping the classic tavern spirit alive.
The Spaniard West Village offers its own take on “the snug” – a pub’s private drinking room. Their modern version features a floral upholstered booth beneath a stunning forest landscape mural by artist Jeremy Miranda. Co-owner Gibson describes it as “a little place within a bar to get away, with a different atmosphere altogether”.
Vaulted ceilings and landmark architecture
The Spaniard’s brick-and-steel, barrel-vaulted ceiling stands as its most impressive architectural feature. This original structural element survived renovation, preserving the late-1800s landmark building’s heritage. Senior designer Danielle Epstein explains, “We wanted to keep as much of the original architectural elements as we could”.
These historic elements create authentic grandeur. The Spaniard reviews often mention the magnificent ceiling structure. One visitor called the “vaulted ceilings” simply “to die for”.
The space comes alive through thoughtful details. An old pay phone sits in the corner, adding what designers call “quirky things that make a place endearing”. The letter board above the bar displays over 100 whiskey options. From the lights that light up the space to garnished cocktails, “every detail to be considered”.
Why it feels like it’s been there forever
The Spaniard NYC opened in 2017 yet achieved something special – it “feels like it’s been there a hundred years”. This timeless quality comes from design choices inspired by New York’s legendary bars.
The owners drew inspiration from iconic city spots including:
- Corner Bistro
- P.J. Clarke’s
- Keens Steakhouse
All the same, co-owner McFerran stresses their unique vision: “We didn’t want to recreate something—it’s not just a version of an old bar”. They captured the essence while creating something distinctly their own.
The Spaniard’s design philosophy uses materials “indebted to history”. This extends to its branding, which draws from the Age of Discovery – when the Spanish Empire led exploration – and characters like Don Quixote. These elements add depth to its visual identity.
Inside the Bar: Layout, Lighting, and Atmosphere
Walking into The Spaniard reveals a space that perfectly blends old-world charm with modern comfort. The place keeps drawing people back despite the crowds, thanks to its amazing whiskey selection and smart design.
The horseshoe bar and multi-room design
The Spaniard NYC’s crown jewel is its stunning horseshoe-shaped bar right in the middle. This four-sided bar does more than serve drinks—it brings the community together. Dark leather booths line the walls, and a separate dining room creates distinct spaces within the venue.
The interior mixes textures and colors to create an upscale yet welcoming feel. You’ll find cozy spots in emerald-green booths, while pastel velvet stools add a touch of casual luxury. The weathered brick ceiling adds a bit of history to the modern design.
The Spaniard bar’s best design feature has to be its huge windows that let sunlight pour in during the day. These windows let guests watch Manhattan life go by while staying in their own peaceful bubble away from the city’s chaos.
The Spaniard restaurant stands out from other West Village spots where you can barely hear yourself think. While reviews call it “loud”, the smart layout keeps the noise from getting out of hand. The space “never gets too loud or dark,” so you can “comfortably speak with friends both old and new”.
The Spaniard West Village buzzes with energy. The bar area gets packed three-deep during rush hour, with people reaching over seated guests to order drinks. The place “tends to be packed every night and all day on weekends”. One guest barely had room “to bring my drink to my lips”—that’s how popular it gets.
The crowd fits right in with the West Village scene—”dudes in button-down shirts and women in chic business-casual” looking like “they belong on a boat somewhere in the Hamptons”. This creates a vibe that’s both laid-back and fashionable.
How the space supports both intimacy and energy
The Spaniard’s clever design works magic by meeting different needs. The horseshoe bar gets strangers talking, while wall booths offer quiet corners for private chats. This makes the place perfect for everything from casual meetups to group celebrations.
The team behind it got the concept just right. “We want customers to feel like they can always rely on the Spaniard,” says one team member. This reliability shows in the atmosphere that hits the sweet spot between lively and comfortable.
This balance tackles a real issue in New York dining. A 2016 Zagat survey showed noise as diners’ top complaint in major cities like New York. About 72% of New Yorkers skip restaurants that get too loud. The Spaniard handles this challenge by creating a space where you can enjoy the buzz while still having a conversation.
The Spaniard NYC pulls off something rare—it creates a space that feels cozy yet energetic, exclusive yet welcoming, and historic yet completely modern.
The Drinks: Whiskey, Cocktails, and Signature Sips
A rich source of spirits sits behind the horseshoe bar at The Spaniard. The liquor selection here caught my attention as a spirits enthusiast in Manhattan’s drinking scene. Their collection stands out with its impressive and purposeful curation.
Over 100 whiskeys and Scotch-heavy selection
The Spaniard NYC built its spirits program around 100 carefully chosen whiskeys from across the globe. Scotch lovers will find this place particularly appealing since more than half of these whiskeys are Scotch varieties. This specialization sets the bar apart in Manhattan’s bustling scene.
The Spaniard menu showcases an extensive range of options from Speyside, Highland, Lowland, Isles, and Islay regions. You’ll find premium selections like the Macallan 25 2023 Release, Talisker 30, and Laphroaig 27. Newcomers to whiskey can start with Compass Box’s curated blends, including “The Story of The Spaniard”.
House cocktails vs. whiskey cocktails
The Spaniard bar splits its cocktail menu between House and Whiskey selections. This smart organization helps guests pick drinks based on their spirit preferences.
The whiskey cocktails feature classics with creative twists. Popular choices include the “Red Hook” with Four Walls, Bitter Vino Naturale, and Maraschino, and “Sweater Weather” – a seasonal mix of Rye, Cinnamon Amaro, Chai, Cider, and Ginger Beer. These drinks respect whiskey traditions while adding modern touches.
Fan favorites: The Toucan, Mosquito, and Penicillin
The Spaniard restaurant’s star drink, the Toucan, delivers sweet burnt-sugar notes through Black Strap rum, Aperol, pineapple and lime[153]. The Mosquito pairs mezcal with ginger and Campari, creating a smoky-tart blend that matches the bar’s rugged vibe[153].
The Spaniard West Village serves an excellent Penicillin – a modern classic that blends Scotch, honey, lemon, and ginger. Each cocktail strikes the right balance between complex and approachable.
The mini Lunchtime Martini experience
The Spaniard NYC has a clever option – the mini Lunchtime Martini. This smaller version lets guests enjoy a midday drink without overdoing it. This smart addition shows how well they understand modern drinking habits.
The bar’s creativity extends beyond whiskey. Summer brings refreshing mezcal cocktails like the “Ilegal Cooler” and “Ilegal 50/50”. The menu changes with the seasons, so The Spaniard stays fresh and relevant year-round.
The Food: Elevated Bar Bites or Overpriced Plates?
The Spaniard has more to offer than its impressive whiskey collection. The kitchen serves food that goes way beyond typical bar fare, thanks to a chef with prestigious credentials.
Chef PJ Calapa’s culinary background
The Spaniard NYC benefits from Chef PJ Calapa’s impressive culinary background. His story starts in Brownsville, Texas, where he spent time in his grandmother’s kitchen and later worked in his grandfather’s wholesale fish business. After graduating from Texas A&M University and the Culinary Institute of America, he became skilled at his craft at famous restaurants like Bouley, Eleven Madison Park, and Nobu 57. He worked his way up from line cook to executive sous chef.
The chef joined the Altamarea Group in 2010 to launch Ai Fiori. The restaurant earned three stars from The New York Times and a Michelin star. His background combines French technical precision with Italian heart. As he puts it: “my brain is French and my heart is Italian”.
Popular dishes: Patty melt, oysters Rockefeller, lobster toast
The Spaniard menu has several standout items that customers love. The patty melt ($18.00-25.00) combines brisket, dry-aged rib eye, and short rib meats. It comes topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, and pickles, alongside Chef Calapa’s mother-in-law’s sweet-tart tomato jam.
The oysters Rockefeller ($18.00) have become a fan favorite. They come dressed with spinach, bacon, and Parmesan. The Spaniard restaurant also serves charbroiled Watch Hill oysters from Rhode Island. These come seasoned with Arbol chile and thick toast to soak up the garlic butter.
The Spaniard reviews often mention the lobster toast, which features generous portions of lobster salad on fresh toasted bread[232].
Balancing bar food with fine dining
Chef Calapa’s approach at The Spaniard mixes casual bar food with fine-dining elements. Classic New York spots like Keens and P.J. Clarke’s inspired a menu that lifts traditional pub fare through careful preparation and quality ingredients.
You can see this balance throughout The Spaniard West Village menu – from buffalo duck wings to a ribeye with housemade steak sauce. The chef explains: “we offer our signature dishes… but we make it the best version by using the best ingredients”.
Is it worth eating here or just drinking?
Reviews of The Spaniard NYC’s food value are mixed. Some reviewers think the prices run high, noting that $25.00 for a patty melt and fries is nowhere near typical. Others mention that “any oyster flavor is masked by the melted parmesan” in the Rockefeller preparation.
The food at The Spaniard New York still gets plenty of praise. The New York Times calls it a bar with “serious food,” and New York Magazine featured the patty melt in its “Where to Eat 2018” list.
The venue’s popularity can affect your dining experience. The bar gets three-deep with crowds, which can make “eating a full meal here a fairly unpleasant experience”. Most people might enjoy The Spaniard more as a drinking spot with some food rather than a full dining destination.
The People Behind It: Irish Roots and NYC Hospitality
The story behind The Spaniard has its roots not in Spain or America, but Ireland. This Manhattan hotspot takes its name from Irish pubs that celebrate the legendary Spanish Armada.
Founders’ trip from Ireland to Manhattan
Three Irish immigrants—Ruairi Curtin, Mark Gibson, and David Mohally—brought their unique vision of hospitality to life. Curtin started at Enterprise Ireland, a government agency that helps Irish businesses expand globally. He became its youngest vice president at age 24. His entrepreneurial drive pushed him toward something more meaningful. “It was a great start,” Curtin explains, “but it wasn’t me. I wanted to make my own decisions.”
Gibson’s path looked different. He worked at bars throughout his college years in Ireland before moving to New York with his now-wife. “I started working in bars like most Irish people do to make money,” he says.
The Bua Group’s bar empire
The team launched their first venture, East Village’s Bua (Irish for “victory”) more than 13 years ago. Their hospitality group now runs seven unique gastropubs across Manhattan and Queens. These include Wilfie & Nell, The Penrose, The Wren, Sweet Afton, and The Bonnie.
“We started out innocently, not knowing a lot about the industry,” Curtin admits. Their lack of experience became an advantage as they created their own distinctive approach.
How Irish hospitality shapes the experience
Irish pub culture runs deep at The Spaniard West Village. Curtin comes from Cobh in Cork County and dislikes venues filled with “flat-screen TVs and deafening music.” The Hi-B in Cork stands as his favorite bar, where phones stay silent and conversations flow freely. “I was kicked out in my youth for laughing too loudly,” he recalls, “but it’s just a great local bar for conversation, heated debates and making friends. That’s really what a bar should be.”
This “old is good” philosophy defines The Spaniard restaurant. Beyond its whiskey selections and culinary offerings, authentic hospitality remains the heart of The Spaniard New York’s lasting appeal.
The Spaniard NYC shows what happens when Irish hospitality meets Manhattan sophistication. This West Village gem delivers more than your average drinking spot. It creates an experience rich in thoughtful design, exceptional spirits, and quality cuisine. A horseshoe bar builds community while historic vaulted ceilings add architectural depth. These elements create a space that feels both fresh and centuries old.
The bar’s impressive whiskey collection and carefully crafted cocktails like the Toucan and Mosquito fascinate guests by balancing complexity with accessibility. Chef Calapa’s culinary background shows in the lifted bar classics. Some guests might wonder if the value matches the prices, especially during busy times.
The Spaniard achieves something rare in New York’s competitive hospitality scene. It strikes a perfect balance between energetic buzz and conversational comfort. People flock here regularly, yet the space maintains its ability to promote genuine connections. This delicate balance comes from the founders’ Irish pub philosophy where conversations matter most and hospitality feels real, not forced.
New visitors should expect packed weekends and higher prices. The Spaniard rewards those who handle these small challenges with a drinking experience that honors tradition while embracing modern tastes. Few Manhattan spots feel both advanced and timeless, trendy yet grounded.
Guests might come for the exceptional whiskey selection, signature cocktails, or Chef Calapa’s refined bar fare. The Spaniard creates an experience that exceeds typical expectations. Manhattan has countless bars, but few capture this unique mix of historical respect, design intelligence, and genuine hospitality. The Spaniard deserves its spot as one of West Village’s must-visit destinations—a modern classic already part of the neighborhood’s rich hospitality story.
Here are some FAQs about the story of the The Spaniard in NYC:
What is the Spaniard NYC known for?
The Spaniard NYC is known for its cozy gastropub atmosphere, excellent selection of craft beers, and British-inspired pub fare. Located in the West Village, this establishment consistently receives positive the spaniard reviews for its friendly service and comfortable neighborhood vibe.
What was Anthony Bourdain’s restaurant in NYC?
Anthony Bourdain did not own a restaurant in New York City, though he famously worked as executive chef at Les Halles. This information is separate from details about the spaniard menu or other NYC dining establishments.
Where is the Taylor Swift Speakeasy in NYC?
There is no official Taylor Swift speakeasy in New York City, though some bars occasionally host Taylor Swift-themed nights. This concept is different from established venues like the spaniard nyc which has a permanent location and regular operation.
Is McLaren’s a real bar in New York?
No, McLaren’s is not a real bar in New York but rather a fictional establishment from the television show “How I Met Your Mother.” This differs from actual bars like the spaniard photos show a real West Village establishment with authentic British pub character.
Where do billionaires stay in NYC?
Billionaires in NYC often stay in luxury hotels like The Plaza, The Mark, or own residences in prestigious buildings. This lifestyle is different from the casual experience offered at the spaniard nyc, which provides a more accessible neighborhood pub atmosphere.
Is $70,000 a good salary in New York?
A $70,000 salary in New York City is considered manageable but requires budgeting, especially for housing costs. This income would allow for occasional visits to establishments like the spaniard menu offerings, though frequent fine dining might be challenging.
Where do celebrities go-to eat in NYC?
Celebrities in NYC often dine at upscale restaurants like Carbone, The Polo Bar, and Daniel, though they sometimes visit more casual spots. While the spaniard reviews don’t typically mention celebrity sightings, it’s known more as a neighborhood favorite than a celebrity hotspot.
What is the #1 rated restaurant in the world?
The title of #1 rated restaurant in the world changes annually, with recent winners including restaurants like Mirazur in France. This elite dining experience is different from the more casual gastropub fare found on the spaniard menu in New York.
What food did Anthony Bourdain refused to eat?
Anthony Bourdain was known for eating almost anything but expressed particular dislike for certain foods like ketchup and well-done steak. This personal preference is unrelated to the food quality you’d find in the spaniard photos showing their British-inspired pub dishes.