La Candela Española

The atmosphere was absolutely amazing. It’s my perfect choice. The staff was extremely friendly and the food was very fresh and well prepared. We enjoyed ourselves greatly as it was our first time here have lived in the area for many years, but never really got to this restaurant. The ingredients were all fresh and the dishes were 100% freshly made and not frozen. They have an extensive menu from Spanish to Mexican cuisines and a few Italian type dishes as well.

La Candela is a Staten Island gem for Spanish and Mexican food. The portions are generous, and everything tastes fresh and flavorful. We ordered and I highly recommend the Paella Valenciana (for two), the Filet Mignon 10oz, and the Skirt Steak Castillo. Their Sangria is also a must-try. My husband and I always order a pitcher when we go there. This place is a solid choice for a satisfying meal with great taste. We love the owner Joe and the bartender Frank. They are awesome! FYI the Paella Valenciana showed in my pictures is split for 2 people already. If you order solo it will be served in a pot.

I came here with a friend for dinner, and it simply was not a great experience. The restaurant itself has a good enough atmosphere. It’s dimly lit, has a nice decor, and has a cozy feel to it. Our servers were all also very friendly and kind. The food, however, was not great. They started us off with chips and salsa, bread and butter, and a salad. The bread was fine. The chips and salsa were not. The chips themselves were decent enough, but the salsa was odd. It was warm, somewhat thick, and it tasted like a bland bowl of microwaved Tostitos mild salsa. Next, the salad was a small bowl of lettuce with one full tomato slice laid on top, and a dressing that I have never seen anything quite like. It was as if the dressing had been left out at room temperature and started to settle. It had a

Okay so my intention was to grab empanadas to go. Frank, the wonderful bartender that greeted us at the door (wend-sat) (he's literally fantastic, please visit to just be in his presence), noted the empanadas would be small. Didn't matter. That was the craving. We ended up staying to eat them warm (we have a bit of a train ride). The margarita he made me was fantastic. Incredible. Like. He said "you'll love it or hate it". I loved it. Strong and delicious. But I digress, those empanadas bro.... Those 4 little morsals of deliciousness... 16$ dollars, charge more. Although don't because pricing in this economy LOL. But yes. They were fantabulous. Please show them love. You have no idea. Will be back to try everything else.

La Candela Española has a great atmosphere — warm, lively, and very inviting. It really captures a nice Spanish-style vibe and makes it easy to enjoy your time there. The food was flavorful and nicely prepared, with several dishes standing out and feeling authentic.