This hidden gem is located in Wilton Manors off the beaten path in a small strip mall and well set up just like in Spain. If you are in the mood and are looking for the atmosphere and vibe of a Madrid Spain Tapas Restaurant, look no further than Candela Restaurant.
You walk in the front door and you have instantly whisked away to one of Spain’s Best Tapas Cities. The combination of décor, sounds and aromas are unmistakably those of Seville, Granada, Barcelona, or San Sebastian.
We were seated immediately as we had a reservation. We reviewed the diverse menu that spans more than just typical tapas and paella (which if I may add are also cooked to perfection) but unique dishes from Asturias, Galicia, and more — all with carefully sourced ingredients and the richest of flavors to match.
We ordered a pitcher of White Wine Sangria to complement our selections. It was delicate yet so very flavorful and most definitely a wonderful blending of flavors. Our server lovingly poured and placed the fruit in our glasses. We then awaited our tapas. The first was the Alcachofas (artichokes) with Serrano ham, sliced garlic, red crushed peppers, and finished in a light wine sauce. Next up was the Gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp) prepared with crushed red peppers and finished with a splash of wine and parsley. Lastly, we could not resist the Grilled Octopus Special of the night. Suffice it to say that it was cooked to perfection and artistically plated. Its beauty was rivaled only by its exquisite taste.
Now for our entrée, we opted for the Paella Mixta for 2 which consists of chicken, sausage, calamari, shrimps, clams, mussels, garbanzos, artichokes, piquillos, green beans, Calasparra Rice, Saffron Broth and Pimenton de la Vera. This paella was by far one of the best that I have ever eaten. It was the perfect balance of all ingredients where no one single ingredient overpowered another proof of Chef Armando’s Classic Culinary training. At this point, we were full and needed to take our leftover paella home with us. Armando the Chef/Owner came by our table and gave us instructions on how to reheat the paella once we were ready to eat it.
For dessert, we had the Almond Cake that was truly out of this world delicious. From what I understand the Chef’s Wife makes all the desserts in-house. DELICIOUS!
This is definitely the perfect spot for dinner with friends, family, or a date. You will be able to enjoy great conversation, good wine, and great authentic Spanish Tapas all this topped off with excellent service. The atmosphere and vibe are truly laid back, relaxing, and conducive to talking and enjoying your company. Spend some time here, sit back, relax and enjoy your delicious food in the Spanish tradition and décor without leaving the country.
Armando has been in this location for over 15 years. He and his staff are very friendly and accommodating. We have visited several Spanish restaurants in the South Florida area but this one is by far one of the best.
