When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Flor Y Solera Spanish Tapas Bar
Why Flor Y Solera Spanish Tapas Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Flor y Solera Spanish Tapas Bar stands out as a cozy, authentic Spanish dining spot located in the vibrant Arts District of Los Angeles. With a solid 4.6-star rating from about 29 reviews, this upscale tapas bar offers an intimate atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends or enjoying a relaxed date night. The restaurant features an L-shaped central bar surrounded by spaced tables along a banquette, set within a stylish industrial space with cement walls that reflect its origins as a former factory. Flor y Solera’s menu showcases genuine Catalonian flavors crafted by an owner-chef from Catalunya, specializing in traditional small plates including classics like patatas bravas, chorizo, paella, and potato omelette. Their extensive and carefully curated sherry list is noted as one of the best in Los Angeles, providing a unique beverage experience that complements the food beautifully. This setting encourages social dining and sharing — a hallmark of Spanish tapas culture — making it an excellent venue for lively conversations and tasting multiple dishes. Guests can expect quality service alongside the authentic Spanish culinary experience, supported by sourcing fresh ingredients and a dedication to cultural authenticity. Whether it’s a casual meetup or a special occasion, Flor y Solera offers an inviting space with flavors that transport diners directly to Spain.
Here's what people think of Flor Y Solera Spanish Tapas Bar
As of recent, Flor Y Solera Spanish Tapas Bar holds a 4.6-star rating based on 29 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Flor y Solera for its authentic Spanish cuisine and cozy ambiance. Positive reviews highlight the excellence of the food, especially applauding signature dishes like the patatas bravas, chorizo, and paella as mouthwatering and true to traditional recipes. Many guests mention the exceptional sherry selection and appreciate the knowledgeable and attentive service, which elevates the dining experience. The intimate and tastefully designed interior enhances the appeal, making it a popular choice for date nights and small groups seeking a genuine Spanish tapas experience in LA. Customers value the balance between the restaurant's upscale feel and its warm, inviting atmosphere that fosters sharing and conviviality. On the other hand, some negative remarks point to the price point being on the higher side, reflecting Flor y Solera’s positioning as an upscale venue, which may not suit every budget. A few reviewers noted that the space can feel a bit low-volume and quieter than typical tapas bars, potentially limiting the lively social atmosphere some expect. Despite this, the overall consensus is that Flor y Solera delivers an authentic, high-quality Spanish dining experience that justifies its cost. In conclusion, the reviews affirm Flor y Solera as a cherished gem in LA’s Arts District, celebrated for its culinary authenticity and inviting setting, while recognizing its premium pricing and ambiance niche.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Zan Lee
A really solid Spanish tapas and paella restaurant in the Arts District, just east of DTLA. It shares the same roof and parking lot as BRERA, another place I really enjoy and have been to many times. It’s a lot quieter and more laid back than BRERA, but in the good way. They have a large bar area, and many different seating options throughout. It was pretty crowded for our 7PM Saturday dinner and the parking lot was quite full. They have valet right out front for $8, self parking next to that for $5, or plenty of free street parking out front, which is what we chose. It’s very large and open on the inside and designed very well. Our server was also very polite and prompt, she did a great job. Also the price is very fair compared to other Spanish restaurants around town. We started our meal with a few tapas: Shrimp in Garlic, Tomato Spread + Goat Cheese + Honey, Patatas Bravas, and the Potato Omelette. Our favorite of those was the shrimp because it had a great flavor. The Patatas were very good as expected, but the other two we would suggest passing. The omelette had a great flavor but was a bit dry and the goat cheese toasts tasted great, but were tiny. Finally for our entree we chose the Squid Ink Paella and it was very good. It was a bit smaller than other paellas I have had recently and being that I have been to Spain many times I personally enjoy the crisper rice paella, which is more common over in Spain. Overall a really good meal for a very fair price with easy parking and great flavors. I would recommend to any Spanish food fan.
Lior Chatow
Delightful Spanish food in industrial but cozy space! The tapas are amazing and the paellas are unique. Everything we ate was absolutely delicious. I would expect a wider variety and diversity of vermouth for a Spanish restaurant but still great experience!
Dewi Aldrich
Chicken croquettes (4 pieces in 1 order): these were too small for a group of 5 to share. The chicken inside was mush and mild in flavor. It would have been nice had a garlic aioli or some other dipping sauce accompanied the dish. 5/10 Marinated salmon w/ sunchoke purée: the word ‘marinated’ isn’t appropriate in the title of this dish as there was no marinade to speak of. Both the fish and sunchoke purée were very bland. This tasted like cat food. 1/10 Fried calamari: the plating on this dish is just sad. No other garnish, no color, just very pale looking squid rings. Also, the term ‘fried’ was misused here as the batter was hardly crispy nor was it seasoned at all!! There was not even a dipping sauce to accompany the dish, and this would have been fine had the batter been SEASONED! Some sea salt would have done the dish wonders! Unless you enjoy a soggy bowl of squid rings, do not bother to drop $12 on this. 0/10 Idiazábal cheese w/ carrot marmalade & walnuts: We actually enjoyed this. The presentation was artfully executed and enticing — and the cheese, which comes from Idiazábal, a town in Northern Spain, was buttery, nutty, and downright tasty. The carrot marmalade, which I’ve not had anywhere else, was creative and fun. The sweetened walnuts were complementary to the dish. Well-balanced. Our only criticism here is more cheese please! 8.5/10 Entrées: Fideus — this pasta dish with shrimp and clams, was the star of the night. This dish hails from Valencia, Spain and is similar to that of a paella, except short, thin pasta is used in lieu of rice. The pasta had a nice ‘bite’ to it and was extraordinary in flavor. The jumbo shrimp was perfectly cooked and the presentation was inviting. Our only gripe here: the clams were too small. Despite the clam size, we rate this dish a 10/10 — we loved it so much, we ordered a second round of it. Do not hesitate to get this!! Sea Bass with kale: beautifully presented and executed. The fish was perfectly cooked — tender yet had a nice flaky/crispy skin. The kale was boiled to perfection, and the sauces were tasty. 10/10 Desserts: Flores de calabacín: battered zucchini blossoms with rice pudding ice cream — the presentation could use some work. The way the zucchini blossoms were plated reminded me of a cross between soft shell crab and funnel cake. But the dish was delicate, light, and fluffy. The crisp on the blossoms was on point. And the ice cream was delicious. 10/10 Torrija con leche merengada: fried milk-soaked brioche, ‘merengued’ milk ice cream, berries. The plating here needs work. It looked like one piece of French Toast topped with ice cream alongside melted burnt marshmallow with a red ring encircling the whole thing. There was nothing in the presentation that screamed, “EAT ME.” The brioche was very orange/citrus-forward in flavor. Good but could have used one more brioche to make the dessert feel more complete, stacked on top of the other in a criss-cross form. The burnt marshmallow did not enhance the dish any. And the word “berries” in the title was misleading as there were no berries in berry form. We assumed the red ring was made from berries, and that’s fine, but then don’t entitle something and not deliver. This was a 7/10. All in all, I’d say FORGO THE TAPAS and dive right into the entrées. From $8-12/plate, the tapas seem overpriced for mostly mediocre food. Very hit or miss. The entrées, however, will give you more bang for your buck. Still pricey, but we don’t mind paying top dollar for good quality, well-executed, FLAVORFUL food. Service was excellent — not just from our server, but all her colleagues as well. Everyone working the floor was attentive. They cleared our table often and replenished with new plates (not that it was necessary, but nice). Our server was present and pleasant frequently checking in without being too much, nor did she try to upsell us on anything. We had a nice family outing and the vibe of this place is fun and lively. Perfect night out for either a date or a group dinner!
Heather L
Many fantastic Catalan dishes. Drinks were good, service was timely and friendly. Highly recommend seeking out this gem. The space is small, and intimate. The tapas list is quite extensive so you can order many items to try and share.
Shanelle S
Cute tapas spot in the Arts District. Came here for dinner in a group of six on a Tuesday evening and had a reservation beforehand. There’s paid valet as well as street parking available. Credit cards accepted. They’re good about splitting the bill among multiple parties. It’s a good spot if you’d like a lighter meal, as they have plenty of tapas. The patatas bravas and the chicken croquettes were tasty; the tortilla espanol was alright. The food comes out as it’s ready. We had a good time overall and service was friendly/efficient.
How to reach Flor Y Solera Spanish Tapas Bar
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Why Flor Y Solera Spanish Tapas Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Flor Y Solera Spanish Tapas Bar with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a night out calls for a place that offers more than just food – it requires an atmosphere where conversations flow freely, laughter fills the air, and every tastebud embarks on a delightful culinary journey. Flor Y Solera Spanish Tapas Bar, nestled in the vibrant Arts District of Los Angeles, fits this description perfectly, making it an ideal spot to rally with friends. With a solid 4.6 rating from 29 reviews, this tapas bar has carved a niche as a go-to venue for those who appreciate authentic Spanish cuisine served in a warm, inviting environment. The tapas concept itself encourages sharing and trying small plates, which naturally fosters camaraderie and lively interaction among groups. Beyond the food, Flor Y Solera’s stylish yet cozy ambiance allows friends to feel both relaxed and festive, whether they want to enjoy intimate conversations or celebrate special occasions. The location within the Arts District adds an urban, creative flair that perfectly complements the Spanish culinary artistry on offer. For anyone looking to host a memorable meetup filled with great food, good vibes, and a sense of community, Flor Y Solera stands out as a compelling choice.
What activities can groups enjoy at Flor Y Solera Spanish Tapas Bar?
Flor Y Solera excels in providing a dynamic array of activities and experiences tailored to group enjoyment. The core activity centers around sampling an eclectic menu of Spanish tapas, which are small, shareable plates from all 17 culinary regions of Spain. This makes it a perfect setting for groups to indulge in a variety of flavors — from the light and refreshing boquerones y pisto (anchovies with gazpacho and red pepper sauce) to heartier dishes like their rabbit entrée, allowing everyone to discover new favorites in a communal style of dining. This sharing format naturally promotes interaction, encouraging guests to discuss and debate the flavors while passing plates around the table.
Along with the food, groups can enjoy a dedicated sherry bar offering a curated selection of Andalusian wines and sherries by the glass. This specialized beverage experience invites both novices and connoisseurs to explore Spain’s rich wine culture together, sparking conversations about pairing suggestions and tasting notes in a relaxed setting. The bar space also doubles as a social hub where friends can stand and mingle, keeping the atmosphere lively and informal.
The venue’s design supports group interaction without sacrificing intimacy. Whether your gathering is a casual after-work crowd or a celebratory dinner, the well-planned seating arrangements accommodate different group sizes comfortably. The cozy Arts District location further enriches the evening, with nearby trendy spots perfect for pre- or post-dinner strolls or additional outings, making Flor Y Solera an anchor point for a whole night of shared experiences.
Why is Flor Y Solera perfect for group meetups?
Flor Y Solera’s concept and setting inherently cater to group meetups, making it a top choice for anyone looking to enjoy quality social time over food. The tapas format is the perfect antidote to quiet dinners; it encourages sharing, experimenting with different tastes, and engaging with friends, which heightens the sense of togetherness. The menu’s diversity means there is something for everyone’s palate, including meat lovers, seafood fans, and vegetarians alike, ensuring no one feels left out.
The ambiance strikes a balance between being chic and approachable. The design integrates elements of traditional Spanish warmth with modern aesthetics, creating an inviting environment that can suit both intimate groups and larger gatherings. With moderately priced offerings ($$–$$$), it provides a sustainable option for recurring social events without compromising quality.
Moreover, the bar’s operating hours—open Tuesday through Saturday evenings—make it a great spot for midweek wind-downs or weekend celebrations. The staff’s friendly and attentive service contributes to the seamless enjoyment of the night, handling group dynamics with ease and helping to tailor the experience to the occasion.
Despite being located in a bustling part of downtown Los Angeles, Flor Y Solera provides a cozy retreat where groups can feel connected and engaged. Whether meeting old friends or networking with new acquaintances, the environment encourages meaningful moments supported by shared plates and drinks.
What makes the food and drink selection at Flor Y Solera special for groups?
Flor Y Solera showcases the rich culinary diversity of Spain’s 17 distinct regions, which translates into a menu full of flavorful and authentic options appealing to groups eager to share and try new flavors. Each tapa is designed to be small yet packed with distinct tastes, textures, and aromas, allowing diners to create personalized tasting journeys throughout their meal.
The combination of classic Spanish ingredients with refined preparation techniques by Catalan-born chef Mònica Angelats ensures authenticity with an elevated touch. Dishes like the anchovies with cold tomato cream and gazpacho provide fresh, zesty flavors that act as palate cleansers between richer plates, while heartier options like rabbit invite those craving more substantial bites.
The dedicated sherry bar is a highlight, as sherry is central to Spanish culture but often underrepresented elsewhere. Groups can explore a range of sherries and Andalusian wines by the glass, pairing them with their food or simply enjoying a tasting session. This focus on traditional Spanish drinks enhances the authenticity of the experience and allows for engaging discussions over the subtleties of the beverages.
By offering something unique in both food and drink, Flor Y Solera elevates the group dining experience beyond the usual night out, encouraging guests to immerse themselves in Spain’s heritage, one tapa at a time.
How does the location of Flor Y Solera in the Arts District enhance the group experience?
Situated in Los Angeles’ Arts District, Flor Y Solera benefits from a neighborhood known for its creative energy and contemporary vibe. This location not only attracts a diverse crowd but also provides groups with a rich backdrop for their meetup, blending culture, art, and cuisine seamlessly.
The Arts District is home to galleries, murals, and eclectic shops, making a visit to Flor Y Solera part of a larger urban adventure. Groups can start with an afternoon stroll, peruse local art, and then settle into the tapas bar for an evening meal. This artsy environment enhances conversation starters, as guests often find inspiration in their surroundings, leading to more engaging and memorable interactions.
Furthermore, the neighborhood’s growing popularity means that after dinner, groups have access to nearby venues for after-parties, coffee, or dessert, providing flexibility and extending the social experience beyond the restaurant. The vibrant street life around Flor Y Solera also adds to the sense of occasion when gathering here, transforming an ordinary meetup into a lively event.
In essence, the location adds a layer of cultural richness and convenience that complements the Spanish dining experience, making Flor Y Solera a compelling choice for city dwellers and visitors seeking both food and atmosphere.
What should groups know about the practical aspects of visiting Flor Y Solera?
For groups planning to meet up at Flor Y Solera, there are several practical considerations to ensure a smooth experience. First, the restaurant operates from Tuesday to Saturday, mainly in the evenings (starting at 5:00 PM and closing around 9:30 to 10:30 PM), so planning ahead for a weekday or weekend night is advisable. Sundays and Mondays are closed, so groups should avoid those days.
Given its popularity and cozy space, it is wise to make reservations in advance, especially for larger groups or special occasions, to secure a comfortable and well-arranged seating area. The pricing is moderate, falling within the $$ to $$$ range, making it accessible for most group budgets while still offering high-quality food and drink.
Parking and transportation are generally convenient due to the location in downtown Los Angeles, with options for street parking and rideshare services. Groups should also be aware that the venue is tailored for dinner service rather than lunch, so time your meetup accordingly to enjoy the full tapas and wine experience.
Overall, Flor Y Solera’s combination of quality, atmosphere, and accessibility makes it an excellent venue for group meetups, provided these practical factors are considered.
Flor Y Solera Spanish Tapas Bar stands out as a destination where friends and family can savor authentic Spanish flavors, enjoy a rich variety of wines, and soak in a lively yet intimate atmosphere in the heart of Los Angeles’ Arts District. From the shared tapas plates fostering connection to the cultured backdrop of the neighborhood, it is a venue that turns casual meetups into cherished experiences.