Where to eat like winners in Bangkok

Much of Bangkok’s 9-5 crowd probably feels in need of a lengthy afternoon siesta after last night’s World Cup finale. But after that we've no doubt they'll be heading out for dinner and more drinks. So in honor of Spain’s 1-0 win over the Dutch, we’ve rounded up three Spanish-themed venues in Bangkok for those who want to eat like winners tonight. 

Tapas Café on Sukhumvit Soi 11.

Tapas Café/Spanish on 4

The owners of Sukhumvit 11’s popular Tapas Café recently opened a second branch, Spanish on 4, on Silom Road. Both venues offer an outstanding selection of, you guessed it, tapas, which includes delicious imported meats and cheeses complimented by an impressive wine list.  There’s a decent selection of paellas too, among other traditional Spanish dishes. Adventurers should check out the specials list, which changes weekly and includes unique items like Conejo en Salmorejo (rabbit in spicy paprika sauce) and Boquerones en Vinagre (White anchovy fillets in vinegar). 

1/25 Sukhumvit Soi 11. Tel: +66 (0)2 651 2947. Open daily, 11 a.m. to midnight

Rioja

This is one of Bangkok’s most well-established Spanish restaurants, serving a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes including the mandatory tapas and paella in an understated but elegant setting. As a bonus, among the delicious meats and seafood on the menu you’ll find some Gagella octopus. Perfect for those who have heard just about enough from Paul and want nothing more than to envision they’re dining on the over-exposed oracle. Rioja also has a quality collection of Spanish wines and desserts on the menu.

1025 Ploenchit Road, BTS: Ploenchit. Tel: +66 (0) 2 251-5761. Open daily, 1-2:30 p.m. for lunch and 6-11 p.m. for dinner

Tapas y Vino, inside Bangkok's Grand Milennium Sukhumvit hotel.

Tapas y Vino

With Spanish art and an onsite wine cellar, this hotel restaurant does a great job of making diners forget they’re in a hotel restaurant. As the name suggests, tapas and wine is the focus, with fresh seafood and cold cuts on the menu along with paella. Dishes range from Spanish and French classics to innovative creations with an Asian twist.

Grand Millenium Sukhumvit Hotel, 30 Sukhumvit Soi 21. Open Monday-Saturday, 6-11 p.m. BTS: Asok. Tel: +66 (0) 2 204 4158