About
Welcome to the vibrant world of Spanish Diner, a charming establishment nestled in the heart of Bethesda, Maryland. Known for its innovative takes on traditional Spanish comfort food, this unique diner is a culinary gem that invites all to indulge in a delightful experience rich with flavor and creativity.
Spanish Diner specializes in sandwiches and offers a plethora of options that cater to diverse dietary preferences. With an array of vegan and vegetarian choices, it ensures that everyone can find something to enjoy. This ADA-compliant establishment provides a welcoming environment for all, featuring amenities such as outdoor seating, drive-thru, and a full bar, making it perfect for a casual lunch or a cozy dinner.
The menu features beloved dishes like the patatas bravas, which have been praised for their garlicky kick, and the iconic gambas al ajillo, a succulent shrimp dish infused with aromatic garlic. Customers rave about pan con tomate, a simple yet flavorful starter that showcases the essence of Spanish cuisine. The calamar a la plancha is another highlight, blending breakfast and seafood in a delightful way that sparks joy in every bite.
As I take in the atmosphere of Spanish Diner, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia, especially when hearing patrons reminisce about their favorite dishes. One reviewer commented on the anchovies on pan con tomate, capturing the essence of comfort that Spanish Diner embodies. The reviews reflect a community deeply attached to the vibrant flavors and welcoming ambiance, ensuring that every guest leaves with new memories of shared meals.
Though the road ahead may see changes, Spanish Diner's legacy remains in the hearts of its patrons. Embrace the warmth, flavor, and community spirit that this trendy diner offers—a true testament to the rich culinary traditions of Spain, right in the heart of Bethesda.
“ Goodbye Spanish Diner, we'll miss you. I visited one last time on their final evening in Bethesda. Sadly, they were out of my favorite dish, anchovies on pan con tomate, so I went with my second favorite, Jose's chips with white anchovies and marinated olives. Yummm! Briny anchovies atop cripy, salted vinegary potato chips with scattered olives. The bright vinegar hits the anchovies perfectly. Then, the calamar a la plancha - two fried eggs, a heap of french fries and three little grilled squid atop candied onions. A perfect mix of breakfast and the sea. So happy and sad at the same time. Spanish Diner was always an inventive, bright little spot. I was hoping their closing meant that we could expect a new Jose Andres restaurant in its place, but our server said their lease was up and they decided to move on. So no new restaurant planned as of Feb 2025, but we can still hope. In the meantime, I'll have memories of little anchovies and squid swimming around in my belly! ”
“ Micro Review My go to brunch spot, especially after a workout. Lots of good carbs - patatas bravas is a must. It's not spicy, and has a delicious garlicky sauce. Try out the different hot espressos that the restaurant does. There's indoor and outdoor seating offered. Location is perfectly nestled near shopping and parking lots (free weekends). ”
“ My rating = 65 (food 50/75, ambiance 5/10, service 10/15). Jose Andres's Spanish "comfort" food restaurant that replaced Jaleo in Bethesda Row. I'm not sure why the concept changed, or what the new concept is exactly. It's still tapas but a little more expensive and now you can also get breakfast (huevos) and lunch food (bocadillos). I guess the idea is to try to get the brunch crowd. Food was good enough but compared to Jaleo it seems a downgrade, at least if you're looking for a date-night dinner. We had: 1. Patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy tomato sauce and garlic aioli) which were different from, and not as good as, those at Jaleo. 2. Gambas al ajillo (shrimp and garlic), still good with nice, big slivers of sauteed garlic 3. Chorizo iberico ”
“ A place to find affordable Spanish comfort food. A convenient location within walking distance of various hotels in Bethesda, MD. It is a diner so it is very casual. Service is good, although staff may either be too shy or too forward. Those we interacted with spoke Spanish which I appreciate since I like to practice every chance I get:) For starters we had the Pan con Tomate. Very simple but tasty. We also shared the Gambas al Ajillo which is a generous amount of shrimp sautéed with garlic, olive oil, chile, bay leaves and wine. The Pincho Moruno came with grilled chicken skewer, marinated in spices, served with gem lettuce, red onions, pippara pepper, sherry dressing with fried potatoes and egg. Lots of other menu items worth experiencing next time I am in the area ”
“ A fun, quirky Spanish tapas place in the heart of Bethesda. Food was solid and the service was strong. Came for lunch, but intrigued to try dinner with more time to sample the extensive menu. ”
“ I love Jose Andres restaurants and love he endlessly gives back to our communities. This uses to be Jaleo , so a few of the same menu items, the restaurant is definitely hip. The croquettes are good. The gazpacho was ok but it wasn't enough. They place it in a shallow bowl, along with some garnishes which are great. However, the menu is so limited, like it almost seem like the menu has like Americanized items. As far as service our writer, was over bearing. The restaurant was empty, it almost seem like he wanted his guests to leave. Like every 5 minutes , it becoming annoying. I think I'll have a better experience at another JA restaurant, but here Idk. Service and food isn't as good as when Jaleo was here. Sigh... ”