Alma de España — Restaurant in Sarasota

I will start off by stating that this place is very very new and they are still working out some service issues, which is fine! The staff was very kind and professional. Things took a little bit long, but it was a non-issue as someone having a casual night out with a friend.

The decor is nice, its a cute restaurant. However its incredibly loud and over crowded. The tables were much too close together, to the point where the waiter was nearly seated on our table top when talking to the guests next to us. The guests around us were also just way way too close and chiming in on our conversation and all but including themselves in our meal. This isnt the restaurants fault, but some physical space would resolve this.

The menu is bizarre for a tapas restaurant and i wouldn't say it was presented in the fashion id expected. Large platters to share with no serving utensils, as opposed to small plates. The food was okay. We got the chef selection of meat and cheese. It has traditional accouterments and toasted bread. The cheeses were nice enough, but no wow factor. The mushroom croquettes were alright. Under seasoned in my opinion, but the flavors of the mushrooms were very good.

The carpaccio was our favorite. Nice meat and flavors. Last was the basque cheesecake. It was quite good, though did not have the traditional burnt exterior one expects in a basque. But the flavors and texture was great.

They garnished multiple dishes (including the cheesecake) with balsamic vinegarette agar pearls, which..again, fine, but very "molecular gastronomy 101".

Its clear theyre trying to add an upscale flare, but very much lacking innovation. This place has the potential to be outstanding if they perfected a true tapas vibe and THEN added some innovation.

We did not get entrees, as the tapas was plenty. They also only had 2 entree options, plus 3 different paella.

Ill note that my friend really enjoyed the sangria.

Over all, our bill, including tip, came to about 150 dollars, which in my opinion is a good value for what we got.

I may go back to try some other things, as I do believe this place has some great potential! We had a lovely time and can tell the staff wants to do something very cool. Its just a matter of some adjustments and...

Had 8 for dinner and we knew they did not split checks so we were prepared. The solid wood tables are gorgeous! The design is beautiful, ceiling so pretty. Some of the tapas are really enough for a meal - the lamb was perfectly cooked and delicious. And artistically plated. Gorgeous! Nice selection of wines. And I have to mention, the napkins are some of the nicest ever offered at a restaurant - I don't know how they keep them so white with all those red sauces - and no perfume or smell. Really luxurious look and feel to the place.

The steak as well. The potatas bravas was ample to share even with a several people. The paella was enough for 2 easily and nice amount of seafood, there is also a price for 4 people to share. Gazpacho with lobster was incredible. Pork was wonderful. Everyone was very happy, although surprisingly, not many were a fan of the tortilla espanola in our group. The sauce with the lamb and broccolini was the same and it was like an addictive tapenade - seriously so good.

The only issue is it is loud - very loud - it was hard to speak to the person across from me, even hard to hear the person next to me. I am sure they will address this issue.

This is a special addition to our Sarasota scene, something very unique and extremely beautiful and delicious. Thank you for being here,...

Dining at Alma de España was an unforgettable experience! From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warm hospitality and food truly captures the spirit of Spain.

We ate a few tapas — croquetas ,gambas al ajillo and beef carpaccio were absolutely delicious and full of authentic Spanish flavor. The ingredients were fresh, and the presentation was beautiful. Every bite was rich and satisfying.

We finished our meal with the torta vasca de queso allowing the pure flavor of the cheese and cream to shine. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a luxurious texture that’s both dense and airy.

The service was outstanding — friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive . They even helped us select a perfect Pinot Noir wine to complement our meal.

The manager was welcoming, professional, and attentive to every detail. The chef, is a true artist in the kitchen. Every dish was crafted with care and bursting with flavor and you could taste the quality of the ingredients and the passion behind each recipe. Together, the manager and chef create a seamless, top-tier dining experience that keeps guests coming back.

If you’re in Sarasota and want a true taste of Spain, Alma de España is the place to go. We can’t wait to come back! . Highly...