Manchego
$$ • Spanish, Tapas, Pet Friendly
Hours:
2518 Main St, Santa Monica
(310) 450-3900
About Manchego
Customers' Favorites
Manchego Reviews
Great food and service. This place never disappoints.
I have a pretty good Spanish palette and tried a few Spanish basics for my first time. The food is fine, but not noteworthy. The server touted the sangria, but it seemed processed rather than homemade. And, the restaurant will not share the wireless, which is very odd in 2022. The servers were pleasant.
I like the flavors, Feeling welcome and comfortable- even appreciated while being there by myself.
friendly And attentive staff are easy to start conversations with as they do their job.
Menu
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 5 - 9:30PM |
| Wednesday | 5 - 9:30PM |
| Thursday | 5 - 9:30PM |
| Friday | 5 - 9:30PM |
| Saturday | 11AM - 9:30PM |
| Sunday | 11AM - 9:30PM |
Manchego offers excellent service and a good selection of tapas, though portions may be small for the price. This cozy gem in Santa Monica blends Spanish charm with a welcoming, neighborhood vibe. The ambiance strikes a perfect balance between intimate and lively, making it ideal for a date night or a small gathering of friends. Guests love the flavorful menu, with the tapas being the star here, featuring a rotating selection of classic and inventive small plates. Favorites include bacon-wrapped dates and patatas bravas, while the imported manchego cheese adds a rich, authentic flavor to the dishes.
The wine list leans heavily toward Spanish and Californian varieties, and the attentive staff are happy to recommend pairings. What sets Manchego apart is the attention to detail in food and service. The staff are attentive without hovering and genuinely seem to enjoy helping guests explore the menu. The warm ambiance and friendly staff create a delightful experience, making it a perfect spot for relaxed dining. Guests also appreciate the fair prices for the high-quality food, especially during happy hour from 5:00pm to 6:30pm.
Recent visitors have praised the restaurant's top-notch hospitality, noting that the staff and kitchen are on point. The flavorful dishes such as deviled eggs, grilled octopus, and steak consistently impress, and the colorful presentation adds to the enjoyment. While some have experienced wait times, the overall experience remains memorable, and many look forward to returning. Manchego is highly recommended for lovers of tapas, wine, and authentic Spanish atmosphere, and is considered one of the best Spanish food spots outside of Spain.