Cafe Sevilla of San Diego — Restaurant in San Diego

Bummer of a “dinner“ out. We don’t go out much and we love Spanish food, but this experience fell short. We were seated right away and the waitress was really friendly. She explained the menu and made some recommendations.

We ordered the French bread and tortilla Española. We were a little late for happy hour, but we figured that the size of the appetizers would be full-size versus like happy hour size. The French bread was really good, but 850 for half a baguette seems a little outrageous. That makes a $17 baguette. Add tax and tip and you’re paying like 22 bucks for a piece of bread, I mean, seriously? Attached is a picture of the tortilla Española, and that is not a tortilla Española. This was more like a quiche. It’s basically the size of the fork. Nowhere in the world will you find a tortilla Española of this size. It was $13.50. Add in tax and a tip and that small bite is like 17 or 18 bucks. We didn’t even touch it and sent it right back. We also got the meat paella. I will give them credit for putting a good amount of meat on there, but there was a layer of rice approximately one grain thick. Also, it was insanely salty, and that was sent back as well. The waitress never came back to check on our food, so I had to go downstairs and find her. It took a while for the manager to come over, but he was really nice. Shockingly he worked there for nine years so it must be a decent place to work, which is good. He agreed that the tortilla is far too small and has shrunk overtime. Apparently it is made in a mold, and I cannot believe that they make molds that size. It is certainly not made for a tortilla Espanola.

He asked if there anything he could do for us but wasn’t clear on whether or not there would be a charge. We did choose to get one dessert, which was delicious. It was the Crema Catalana. It is not your typical one. It is basically a chocolate pudding that has caramelized sugar on top. It was amazing, but I can’t imagine having paid 14 bucks for it because it was tiny. We also got the flan, which was good, it was only about half an inch thick and 2 inches around. There is no way you could share that with someone satisfied. It was really good, but far too small.

The manager came back and admitted to having tried our paella, and he said that it was so salty he spit it out. At that point, he really could have offered to make us another one or get us something else in terms of actual food because we were still starving. We had only had water to drink, so the only thing we really paid for the bread, which, in all honesty should’ve really been comped at that point, given the fact that the food was so bad that he had to spit it out. He did say that if we ever go back, which we may, he will personally make us agood paella. We really would’ve preferred that last night since we left there starving. Again, just way too expensive for the size of the portions. I would imagine they just rely on big groups from conventions and tourists who never go back. I didn’t notice any locals in there and can’t imagine local people driving there for that type of experience. We are, however, local and would have loved to go back. This is one of our favorite cuisines, having lived in Spain for several years in the...

Stepping into Café Sevilla in San Diego feels less like entering a restaurant and more like embarking on a voyage through the vibrant heart of Spain. The immersive décor—a harmonious blend of rustic wooden beams, wrought iron accents, and vivid Andalusian tiles—transports you straight to the cobblestone streets of Seville. Every corner is alive with color and texture, whispering tales of flamenco nights and sun-soaked plazas.

The service is nothing short of exceptional. In an age where dining often feels transactional, the staff at Café Sevilla brings warmth and attentiveness that harks back to a bygone era of hospitality. Families with children will find themselves particularly well cared for; the accommodating nature of the staff ensures that even the youngest diners feel like honored guests.

Now, let’s talk about the food—a symphony of flavors and hues that both honors tradition and excites the palate. The ceviche arrives like a vibrant mosaic, a kaleidoscope of fresh seafood, citrus, and finely chopped herbs. Each bite is a refreshing explosion of taste and color, practically leaping off the plate with its vivacity. The octopus, tender and perfectly grilled, is adorned with a medley of colorful accompaniments—roasted peppers, golden potatoes, and a drizzle of saffron aioli—that not only please the eye but elevate each bite to a new level of indulgence.

The charcuterie board is a masterclass in curation, featuring a selection of cured meats and artisanal cheeses that could make a Spaniard weep with nostalgia. Each component tells a story of heritage and craftsmanship, arranged artfully to entice both sight and appetite.

The calamari, crisp and tender, arrives as a testament to the kitchen’s finesse. It’s clear that every dish is intentional, crafted under the visionary guidance of Executive Chef Miguel Delgado. His culinary concept marries the vibrant energy of Spanish cuisine with a modern sensibility, creating an experience that’s both authentic and refreshingly original.

And then there are the cocktails—the caramelized Old Fashioned and the Spanish Old Fashioned are works of art in themselves. These drinks aren’t merely mixed; they’re orchestrated with precision. The balance of smoky sweetness and robust spirits creates a concoction that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

The musical backdrop enhances the ambiance without overpowering conversation, a subtle nod to the rhythms that inspire Spanish culture. It’s this attention to detail—from the music to the vividly presented dishes—that elevates Café Sevilla from a mere dining establishment to a cultural experience.

In a city brimming with culinary options, Café Sevilla doesn’t just stand out—it dances. It’s a place where food, atmosphere, and service coalesce into an unforgettable evening. Whether you’re a seasoned gourmand or a family seeking a memorable night out, Café Sevilla promises—and delivers—a taste of Spain that lingers long after...

A culinary trip to Spain without having to venture out of San Diego. Since the pandemic hit, the 5th ave has been closed to traffic at night and large outdoor eating areas have been set up with heating. Most nights till 8pm you can find live Latin music being played -which always draws me in. After that music is played inside the restaurant which has amazing decor and Spanish style. The ambiance is wonderful, the food is delicious and the service has always been beyond attentive. Many of the dishes are extremely heavy and filling, so I would advise ordering them one at a time. They come out of the kitchen extremely fast anyways.

This last visit I ordered the Journey through Spain' A five course tasting menu for two for only $99. The menu allows you to pick through several different options for each course. There are so many Tapas and plates here, so this was a great option to get a little of everything.

Course #1 Halibut and shrimp ceviche

-Very good but the fish is extremely citrusy. Nice big chunks. The shrimp was so so.

Course #2 Grilled Spanish Salchichas

-At your table the brandy sauce is poured on and flambéed. I'm not an a sausage expert or fan and wished I ordered something else. The plate has a variety of meats. Some good….. Some had that earthy barnyard taste where you definitely could taste the animal.

Course #3 Mushroom & Fi Coco Flat Bread.

-I enjoyed this. I've had the short rib version and liked this better.

Course #4 (Actually 2 dishes in 1)

16 hour braised short rib. Amazing. So much meat. I will note that most the dishes have a similar sauce that is used. Almost every dark has a red wine taste. Ordering too much, the tastes blend together.

Mediterranean Sea Bass. Good. Not much to say. I do wish the my would have mixed the sides up on these two dishes. Both plates had matching sides.

Desert #5 Lemon Tart. Just ok. A large selection alcoholic drinks are available. The Sangria is very unique here with an slightly bitter herbal taste and is available by the pitcher. Parking is near impossible on the street. There are several public lots within a two block radius that run...