Albarino Tapas Restaurant and Bar

Someone from this business manages this listing.

711 reviews

#6 of 80 Restaurants in Broadstairs££ - £££, Mediterranean, European, Spanish

+44 1843 600991+ Add website

Hours

Tue

17:00 - 23:00

Wed

17:00 - 23:00

Thu

17:00 - 23:00

Fri

17:00 - 23:00

Sat

12:00 - 15:0017:00 - 23:00

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What is Travellers’ Choice?

Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.

Ratings and reviews

4.5

711 reviews

#6 of 80 Restaurants in Broadstairs

Travellers' Choice 2024

RATINGS

Food

Service

Value

Atmosphere

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PRICE RANGE

£5.00 – £25.00

CUISINES

Mediterranean, European, Spanish

Special Diets

Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options

meals, features

Location and contact

29 Albion Street, Broadstairs CT10 1LX England

+44 1843 600991

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Is this location primarily known for Bars & Pubs?

Yes

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PRICE RANGE

£5.00 – £25.00

CUISINES

Mediterranean, European, Spanish

Special Diets

Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options

Meals

Lunch, Dinner

FEATURES

Reservations, Seating, Highchairs Available, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Digital Payments, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Gift Cards Available

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4.5

711 reviews

Excellent

539

Very good

107

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Terrible

Theatremanager

Seaford31 contributions

Lovely tapas

Sept 2020 • couples

We visited Albarino during our stay in Broadstairs and actually booked a table the week prior to our visit. Customer service was good, we were asked to fill a track and trace form and the waitresses wore masks. The tables were well spaced too. There is a set menu from which you chose one dish from each section - three dishes each person. We also chose to have bread and olives to start too. The food was very good and authentic but we felt a little overpriced . The cheapest bottle of wine was £26.00 - again overpriced!

Written 12 September 2020

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

sixtynineLondon

Hi, Thanks for your review, I am pleased that you enjoyed your meal and hope to see you again soon. The fixed price menu is something we have gone over to since lockdown was lifted. we have lost 1 /3 of our seating to accommodate the government guidelines with regards to social distancing. The only way we can operate a viable business with so few seats, is to have a minimum spend per head for food. There are dishes in each section of the menu that if chosen would make the cost of the menu over £27.50 per person. Some times we lose out but over the course of the evening it seems to balance itself out to be around the £23-£24 pound mark. i could put supplements on some dishes but this is something I have never liked or wanted to do. I feel the price of £23.50 represents good value for money , especially in these difficult times, With regards to the wine, I would like to correct the inaccuracies in your review. The cheapest bottle of red and white wines are both at £19 per bottle. They are excellent wines at the price representing excellent value for money as I believe all of our wines do. We also have wines at £22 and £24 a bottle as well. The cheapest wine not being £26 a bottle as you claim. Many thanks, Kind Regards Steven Dray

Written 13 September 2020

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Suzie Mike & Sam

Wallington228 contributions

Great relaxed tapas bar & delicious food

Aug 2019 • friends

Great relaxed tapas bar with delicious food! We popped in on a Friday night without a booking but was able to sit at the bar, which really added to the relaxed atmosphere and was ideal for catching up with a friend. There were plenty of options for vegetarians and my friend was both lactose intolerant and gluten free - so we are awkward customers. But there was plenty of options that were a bit different and imaginative. I still think about the stuffed dates and am looking forward to going back for more! Highly recommended!

Written 30 January 2020

Pamela B

16 contributions

Best Spanish food in the UK

Jun 2020 • none

What a gem - better than any of the Spanish restaurants in London where we lived for over 20 years! We have always had fantastic meals there: everything is tasty and well-sourced, from the octopus to the Iberico pork, and many other favourites. The tapas dishes are freshly prepared, with creative combinations of ingredients and meticulous attention to detail. So pleased there is now a takeaway service in these difficult times. The ambience and service in Albarino is terrific, so we miss it now and hope the restaurant will be open soon; until then we will be ordering more of the delicious dishes - an authentic taste of Spain.

Written 12 June 2020

Fifib

2 contributions

Great food! Terrible wine

Jul 2021 • couples

You must book to eat here because its so small they often can't take walk-ins and they now ask for a deposit on booking. The menu is a set menu with a minimum of £23.50 per person we didn't know this before we went so it's important to note. You also can't really pick whatever you want from the menu, it's divided into 3 sections and each person MUST pick 1 item from each section. The food is honestly so delicious. They are quite substantial plates I'd say 3 per person is quite a lot but good if you're very hungry. The downside was the wine which didn't taste nice and the waiting staff said it was our taste palettes but I'm not sure it was but the waiting staff were nice enough. In the end we paid for the wine but didn't drink it. Service charge was included at 10%. Overall the food is super tasty and I would recommend the tuna potato salad. I would go back because the food is so good but not regularly because of the price and I'd stick to water next time.

Written 18 July 2021

Jim S

12 contributions

Not what it was

Aug 2021 • none

I haven't been to Albarino's for well over two years. At the time I said it was the best Tapas I have had outside of Spain, that is no longer the case. Online booking’s only, £20 deposit on booking, none of which I mind but things have changed. Our table was booked for 7.00pm, we had the audacity to arrive 6 min early and was told very abruptly to come back at 7.00pm, which we did. Just as well it wasn't raining. During our 6 min wait outside we contemplated not paying the 10% discretionary service charge but we would not of been able to justify that as the staff were very helpful and polite (apart from the one who told us to come back at 7.00pm) The food was indifferent, the main issue being served cold chorizo with remoulade and cold crab on warm toast. Now I'm sure the proprietor/cook will say thats the way they do it in Spain but have had similar dishes in Spain and they were not served that way. Padrone peppers good, croquets good chickpea chips OK but the whole set up is geared for the connivance of the kitchen. It's changed and not for the better. Now I did mention the chorizo and that the food in general was disappointing, I did this mindful that the proprietor would say in his response (he must spend an age responding to these reviews) that it wasn't mentioned at the time, well it was but no comment from the kitchen on this occasion. I did get a response from the kitchen the first time I visited. I put my head around the pass and congratulated him on his food, his response was a sort of grunt. Many of the reviews mention people being rude, not everybody is rude, the two waiting staff that served us were very polite and helpful. I think the adverse comments stem from the top. I eagerly await the inevitable response. Oh by the way I won't be going back.....ever

Written 27 August 2021

sixtynineLondon

Dear Twit advisor, your inevitable response is as follows. Although Covid restrictions have been lifted, government guidance for restaurants remain in place. The thorough cleaning and sanitising of table and chairs after use is just one of many. As is ensuring that the restaurant remains well ventilated and that people show each other consideration by not standing up close to each other. in order to carry out these measures in a tight busy restaurant, we politely ask people just to wait outside for a few minutes whilst we prepare their table for them, if the table is not ready upon their arrival. Most reasonably minded people can understand this and appreciate the effort and care we put into this. Not in your case, as you seem to feel that by us reducing the chances of you contracting Covid by asking you to wait outside for a few minutes should be rewarded by removing the service charge. The staff did mention to me that you were unhappy that the sliced cured chorizo was cold, as was the crab mayonnaise on toast. As both dishes are served cold, I cannot see that how from reading the menu they can be interpreted in any other way: unless of course you did not know what you were ordering. The staff told me you were rude and obnoxious to them all night long. Not once did they stoop down to your level, even thanking you for your visit and wishing you goodnight as you were leaving. You don't say goodbye? There is one thing I absolutely agree with you in your ridiculous review, is that you wont be coming back. Your not welcome back!

Written 30 August 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

DaveLG60

London39 contributions

A great restaurant with effective COVID protection for customers

Aug 2020 • none

We visited on 12th August and really enjoyed the tapas and the flight of Albarino (4 x 175ml various, excellent white wines). It is hardly surprising that all of the reviews are positive about the quality of the freshly-prepared food. We were also very impressed with the effective distancing measures taken by the owner/chef, to protect customers. We had a table by the window and noted that all of the tables are well spaced. The two staff serving food wore face masks, which while it is the obvious measure to take, seems to be unique amongst restaurants in the town. We definitely recommend and will eat here again soon.

Written 26 August 2020

Roshni___

16 contributions

A top tapas treat in the heart of Broadstairs

Jul 2021 • none

After a lovely day soaking up the sun in Broadstairs, we took a little stroll through the backstreets in search for a delicious dinner by the sea. On our travels, we spotted Albarino and were not disappointed. We did not have a reservation but we were warmly welcomed and offered a spot despite there being multiple bookings that evening (would advise booking!). We sat at the bar, which I'd definitely recommend as you can take in the Spanish decor and peek into the kitchen as your food is freshly prepared. It's a set menu to choose from, but the portions are substantial and full of flavour. The presentation of the food was top notch too (particularly liked to see the potato and tuna salad re-housed in an Ortiz tuna tin), and the dishes arrive as soon as they are made. The service was great: super friendly and informative when we asked for recommendations. The bathrooms were clean and sanitiser was readily available. There was also good ventilation in the restaurant. Very much a good use of time if you're in the market for some lovely Spanish food in a small, friendly, colourful environment.

Written 7 August 2021

susan_byrne54

London48 contributions

First visit to Albarino

Sept 2021 • none

After many great reviews we went to Broadstairs to eat in this restaurant. We looked at the outside and it looked great menu looked great and it was open, we went on wed lunch time. We stood around while the man that was there finished cooking . He came out asked what we wanted we asked if we could sit and eat, he said no we are closed restaurant opens at 6 pm only takeaway . Turned his back to us and muttered a goodbye. Maybe a great restaurant but would t bother again based on his rude approach to customers.

Written 22 September 2021

Catherine H

1 contribution

Holiday family meal

Jun 2021 • family

Whilst the food was good, we weren't made aware of the obligatory tasting menu - we wanted more choice with our tapas and particularly with picky teens. The choices were limited and most cheap ingredients although the overall cost certainly didn't reflect this. I have been here before and loved the varied choice. It felt like the restaurant is trying to recoup a lost season at the cost of its guests. The serving staff were friendly and attentive. I will not be returning as feel conned.

Written 5 June 2021

sixtynineLondon

HI, Thanks for taking the time to review your experience. we have been operating with a fixed price sharing menu for nearly a year now, this is clearly displayed on our website. the menu consists of exactly the same amount of varied dishes as it always has, there has been no change. the only change is there is now a fixed price per person, which is in my opinion represents excellent value for money. As I am the person who purchases all ingredients, I can assure you that they are not cheap, we don't do cheap, If you knew the cost of the ingredients then you would see this by just looking at the menu. In fact, if you had chosen the Galician octopus as one of your choices, then that alone would cost the same as the whole menu! The fact that we have had no income for the last seven months does not give me the desire to con anyone. I take offence to this suggestion. The menu clearly shows the prices and choices. I would suggest you have a look at the menu before booking a table, or maybe you did and just thought that this would not apply to you. thanks Steven Dray

Written 6 June 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Susan1961_13

Oxford28 contributions

Rude, unwelcoming, off putting

Jun 2021 • none

We phoned to reserve a table here. Firstly, my son was told not to phone but to book over the internet. Then i phoned to check they would be able to accommodate one of our party who is muslim and therefore does not eat pork. the person sighed and said to look at the menu and make up our own minds. we did not have internet available to us so both requests were hard to follow. i told him how rude he was and we did not reserve. how unwelcome and uncomfortable is it possible to make people out on their holiday just trying to book a place to eat? what sort of a manager is happy to make people feel bad for asking if their dietary requirements can be accommodated? i hope people will vote with their feet to avoid a place that treats customers with such disdain and disrepect.

Written 8 June 2021

sixtynineLondon

Hi, Your son called to see if he could book a table. As we only take on line reservations., I referred him to our website. You then called, to tell me that one of your party was Muslim, and did I think there would be enough choice for them? i told you that I thought so and that it would be best for you to look at the menu on line to make your own mind up. Your response to this was to tell me that I had a terrible attitude ( why, I do not know ) and that I should F**CK OFF. you should be thoroughly ashamed of the way you spoke to me and the complete lies you have posted on twitadvisor. I feel sorry that your son has a mother with such a vile. filthy, disgusting mouth. on a brighter note, I do hope that the weather remains as glorious as it has been recently, during your stay in Broadstairs .Apart from where you are staying, of course. Where I hope it rains on a biblical scale, every single day. regards Steven Dray

Written 8 June 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Leonora L

Woodstock85 contributions

A little bit of Spain in Broadstairs.

Jun 2021 • couples

We visited this amazing tapas restaurant while on holiday near Broadstairs. They were accommodating before we even went as I wanted to change the table time so we could watch England in the semifinals of the Euros. The whole experience was wonderful from the fabulous tapas selection to the great wine list all delivered by a wonderfully welcoming young lady, who was very knowledgeable about the wine and food. We have eaten in many tapas bars in Spain and this tapas was as good as anything we have had there. Please visit and support this amazing little restaurant.

Written 9 July 2021

harrykemp2017

Broadstairs14 contributions

Great food in this unique gem

Dec 2019 • none

I love this intimate and unique restaurant. Fine tapas with different specials every week. Cooked superbly with passion, you can see the food cooked by the chef though a hatch into his kitchen and dishes come straight o your plate. Mitchellin commended. Vegan options are available, the Padron Peppers being a personal favorite. The chickpea and fennel 'chips' are amazing and should always be sampled. Lovely Spanish wines and a wide selection of Madeira's, Ports and desert wines complete the lovely offering of freshly cooked ingredients. The VAT27 desert wine is correctly described as Christmas in a glass, fantastic. Also try the Basque green effervescent wine , a Txakoli type, an exotic treat.

Written 15 January 2020

DCos1

17 contributions

Terrible (ironically the same word in Spanish and English)

Aug 2021 • family

Really did not want to write this. But having left and had a debrief at a local bar, we played a game of the worst meals we’ve ever had. . . and Albarino was the winner. The octopus was chewy, the croquettes were greasy, and the crab toast with pancetta was indescribable. Less said about the sausage, chickpea and spinach ensemble the better. The staff were lovely, and to be fair I didn’t raise a fuss. However, there are much nicer places to go to in Broadstairs that won’t cost you north of £100 for a £10 kids menu and 9 tapas.

Written 18 August 2021

sixtynineLondon

Thank you for this frank review. We strive to give our guests an excellent dining experience and make good if we fall short. However, it is rather difficult to do so when the customers leaves the restaurant having said not a word of their dissatisfaction. Our staff are always asking and checking with the guest to make sure they are enjoying their meal giving plenty of opportunity to flag any issues. The dishes you describe are some of our most popular and our customers are usually very complimentary. However, on the occasions where customer's report a problem with a dish (it happens, we are not perfect) we would offer to either cook another or an alternative. As you did not express any concerns to us during your meal, we were not able to address your issues. It seems you felt complaining on this forum would be more productive than telling us directly.

Written 19 August 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

gingkoleaf

40 contributions

Good food but be warned, it's very inflexible

Sept 2022 • none

We went to Albarino for a light meal before a concert. The food is good, but I don't understand why the menu is so inflexible. If you need to have a minimum charge of £21.50 per customer, that's fine, that's fair enough; what's not very appealing is that I have to spend £21.50 the way you want it spent. We MUST have three tapas per person from the sharing menu; we can't have, say, four tapas, a plate of cheese, and a pudding; or four tapas, two snacks, and two puddings. The sharing menu is non-negotiable, and then you can order whatever else you want on top of that. Being told how I have to structure my meal seems to be contrary to the whole idea of tapas. If you're hungry and want a big meal, that's probably ok, but if you want to build your own meal the way you want it, this is not the place to go.

Written 17 September 2022

sixtynineLondon

Hi, Thanks for your review. I am sorry that you did not check out our website before booking a table with us. If you had, then you would have seen that we offer a simpler menu of tapas dishes all individually priced available at the counter seating. The table sharing menu is available for the table seating. The online booking platform gives you a choice of booking table or counter seating for this very reason. The website states quite clearly ' We also have a bar menu available for the counter seating, if you just fancy a drink and a couple of small plates I believe that we have put as much information out there as possible to let people know what we do and to give them the ability to exercise the ultimate choice of whether to book a table with us. thanks regards

Written 19 September 2022

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Tony L

Broadstairs52 contributions

A great local restaurant

Dec 2022 • none

Two of us ate here earlier in the week. There is a very well crafted menu with a wide range of options as well as excellent and well-priced wines and sherries. We chose thee £21.50 per head menu of 3 choices each. The food comes as it is prepared and every dish was beautifully presented and offered a good range of flavour and texture combinations. We enjoyed everything but in particular the Medjool date and jamon pincho and the gambas a la plancha. We each had a Sherry to start, a large glass of wine, 2 desserts, two coffees and an orujo, a Galician aguardiente. The total bill was very reasonable. Service throughout was friendly, attentive and professional without being intrusive. We also bought some items from the marvellous stock of Spanish items at the instore deli. A great meal! I thoroughly recommend it as, perhaps, the best local restaurant.

Written 9 December 2022

sixtynineLondon

Thanks for taking the time to post your review. hope to see you again soon Kind Regards Steven Dray

Written 3 January 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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