La Vieja Castilla — Restaurant in Calumet Township

A Flavorful Escape to Spain (with a Hint of Ecuador) at La Vieja Castilla – Blue Island, IL

Nestled in the heart of Blue Island, La Vieja Castilla offers a rare and delightful fusion of Spanish tradition and Latin American flair. From the moment we walked in, we were enveloped by a cozy charm—the interior may be older, but it’s thoughtfully decorated, evoking the warm rustic elegance of an old Castilian tavern.

The Paella Valenciana was easily the crown jewel of our meal. Overflowing with an incredible bounty of seafood, it surpassed any other version we’ve tasted—generous in both portion and quality. Each bite carried layers of flavor that hinted at a Latin American twist, likely an Ecuadorean influence from the cook, who masterfully wove in spices reminiscent of Ecuadorian cuisine. It was savory, slightly smoky, and vibrantly spiced, standing out as a reinterpretation of the classic while still honoring its roots.

The empanadas (beef and chicken) and croquetas echoed that same beautiful blend. While clearly inspired by Spanish tradition in their crisp texture and rich fillings, their seasoning and finish carried subtle but unmistakable Latin American notes, giving each bite a touch of originality without straying too far from the authentic.

The lentil soup was hearty and comforting—perfectly seasoned, brimming with earthy depth. It served as a perfect counterbalance to the rich flavors of the other dishes. And the stuffed mushrooms? Decadent and satisfying, with a bold savory stuffing that danced on the palate.

Of course, no Spanish outing is complete without sangria. Our pitcher was strong and superbly blended, featuring brandy that elevated the flavor to a more authentic and robust profile than most American interpretations. It was refreshing, potent, and perfectly paired with the warmth of the food.

Service was top-tier throughout our visit—attentive, personable, and genuinely passionate about the food. That hospitality, combined with the layered flavors and generous portions, made it easy to sink into the experience and savor every moment.

In all, La Vieja Castilla is a gem: a restaurant that respects Spanish culinary heritage while embracing the unique spices and spirit of Latin America. It’s rare to find a place where both influences complement rather than compete. This was a memorable visit, and we’ll absolutely return.

Bravo to the chef and the team—this was a flavorful journey...

HIGHLY RECOMMEND this outstanding family-owned/operated restaurant that serves delicious, flavorful Spanish-style tapas and entrees. The meal starts with a complimentary plate of mouth-watering garlic bread and bowls of savory lentil soup. SOOO good. Our party of four ordered empanadas (spinach & mushroom and chicken), goat cheese in tomato sherry sauce, tortilla española, mushrooms stuffed with spinach & manchego cheese, and vegetable paella. All dishes were freshly prepared, seasoned well, and served very hot. We also had a pitcher of sangria (of course), full of apples & oranges, no ice. Our server brought us ice upon request. We all agreed afterwards that the sangria was agreeably strong and called for a post-meal siesta.

You can tell that the chef and staff (his wife and son) put their hearts and souls into this charming, little restaurant. It is warm, cozy, and comfortable. Perfect for an intimate, romantic dinner or a large family meal. The staff is very accommodating.

My friend wanted to go for a bike ride and lunch for her birthday. After leisurely riding the Cal-Sag and Major Taylor Trails (highly recommend), we decided to explore downtown Blue Island. We saw the Spanish flags adorning La Vieja Castilla and were pleasantly surprised to find this gem of a restaurant in Blue Island, of all places. Our server, Alex, heard that it was my friend's birthday. At the end of our meal, after we were all pleasantly stuffed, Alex and his mother and father (the chef) brought us some rich & creamy flan with a birthday candle, and everyone in the restaurant, including another table of diners, sang "Happy Birthday." It was so delightful.

We have been to other bougie, expensive Spanish tapas restaurants in Chicago, all with delicious food. However, La Vieja Castilla surpasses them in charm, warmth, and hospitality, which makes a delicious dining experience even more memorable. We will definitely return soon for another scrumptious meal.

Btw, I am craving those empanadas...

La Vieja Castilla is a cozy and charming restaurant located in Blue Island that offers a delicious taste of traditional Spanish cuisine. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel at home. The menu at features a variety of traditional Spanish dishes, including paella, tortilla de patatas, and Empanadas. The food is prepared with the freshest ingredients resulting in dishes that are bursting with flavor. But One of the standout dishes that is a must-try on their menu are the home made empanadas. They are a perfect blend of savory and spicy flavors wrapped in a crispy, golden pastry shell. The filling is made with high-quality ingredients and features a variety of options including chicken, beef, and vegetarian options. Each empanada is generously filled, providing a hearty and satisfying meal and with each bite full of flavor. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is large enough to share with a group. In addition to the food, the service is excellent. The staff are attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. They are always happy to make recommendations and provide information about the dishes. La Vieja Castilla is an excellent restaurant that delivers a taste of Spain in the heart of Blue Island. With delicious food, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and excellent service, Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a full meal, it is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic Spanish dining experience. This is definitely a restaurant...