Lola Cocina Spanish Restaurant

Owing to its distinctly rustic style and traditional Spanish influences, you can hardly believe Lola Cocina Spanish Restaurant is actually in Sydney instead of the rural Spanish countryside.

An authentic Spanish bistro with plenty of soul, Lola Cocina is a transportive spot thanks to the grand building it calls home and the distinguished choice of décor. This is where grand arches lead the way to a farmhouse-esque living room, full of worn bistro tables and arresting wall paintings that take you to the heart of a Running of the Bulls event. This is where life is enjoyed with loved ones and where the sangria jug is always half full.

And if it isn't their stunning international musicians and flamenco dancers who whisk you to the Spanish coast, then their food certainly will. It wouldn't be a proper menu without some delicious tapas, so graze away on fried black pudding, grilled chorizo, wagyu beef fillet, empanadillas and regional pork sausages. Alternatively, look to the ocean for their entire seafood tapas menu which includes slow-cooked octopus, pan-seared scallops, Spanish seafood stew and much more.

Keep the sharing vibe alive with some platters for the table. With seafood, meat, vegetarian and mixed platters available, all brimming with the same bold Spanish flavours, there's plenty to go around. Alternatively, order your own individual plate! How about a bowl of mellow yellow paella that can also be made vegan? Or some creamy linguine? Wash it down with some sangria or any of their Spanish or classic cocktails and toast the Spanish way of life. It's inspiring to say the least.