Walter Ponce
Islamorada Tapas Bar is a tapas restaurant in El Arenal, in the historic centre of Seville, a short walk from the Cathedral and the Guadalquivir river. Its cooking blends traditional Spanish and Andalusian flavours with an international twist, and since opening in 2020, founded by Victor López and Lorenzo Ciulli, it has become a popular stop in the old town. The name comes from Islamorada, a village in the Florida Keys.
Inside, the decor is minimalist, with colourful Triana tiles on the walls. The terrace and dining area are bright with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere for a long meal of shared plates. The kitchen is led by Gonzalo Bautista, whose experience includes restaurants like La Isla and Oriza, and the menu is known for generously portioned tapas and creative dishes.
After a long day walking around the city, we managed to find a table at Islamorada. We were very pleased to get a spot in a quiet corner of a secret terrace. The service was lovely and they served all the dishes quickly. Portion-wise, as you can see in the pictures, we were very pleased, and at the end of the meal we were very full.
Islamorada Tapas Bar menu: what we ordered
Garlic prawn Spanish omelette: a delightful twist on a Spanish classic, this omelette is packed with plump prawns and aromatic garlic, a harmonious mix of textures and tastes.
Eggplants in a golden trench coat: tender aubergine slices in a golden, crispy coating, served with a savoury dipping sauce. Each bite is a contrast of crunch and softness.
Fried squid from Huelva: fresh squid from Huelva, fried to golden perfection. The crispy exterior gives way to tender squid inside.
Retinto mini cheeseburger: a nod to local produce, this mini cheeseburger uses Retinto beef, known for its rich flavour, topped with melted cheese in a soft bun. A bite-sized indulgence.
The menu also includes homemade desserts, from Spanish classics to international favourites. Dishes change, so check the current menu on the restaurant’s website before you go.
Islamorada menu: https://islamoradatapasbar.com/carta/
Is Islamorada worth it?
Yes, if you want generous, well-made tapas in the centre of Seville. The portions were the highlight for us, and the terrace made it a relaxing break between sights. My overall rating is three stars: three for food, location, price and portions, and two for service. It works well for a meal with friends or a dinner for two.
If you are planning a tapas route, I also reviewed Bar Típico barra de tapas, another Seville spot.
Where is Islamorada? Address and getting there
Islamorada Tapas Bar address: C. Francisco López Bordas, s/n, Casco Antiguo, 41001 Sevilla
El Arenal is the historic district between the Cathedral and the Guadalquivir. In the past it was the area of the port and the bullring, and today it is full of bars, restaurants and some of Seville’s best sights.
- On foot: the historic centre is compact and best explored walking.
- From Santa Justa train station: around 25 to 30 minutes on foot, or a short taxi ride.
- From the airport: an airport bus connects with the city centre, and taxis are available.
- By tram: the city tram runs through the centre, with stops near the Cathedral and Puerta de Jerez.
Tapas culture in Seville
Seville is often called the capital of tapas. Going out for tapas (tapear) means moving from bar to bar, ordering a few small plates and a drink at each. Some tips to tapear like a local:
- Order a few plates at a time and add more as you go.
- Try half portions (medias raciones) if you want something bigger than a tapa.
- Drink like a sevillano: a small cold beer (caña), a glass of Manzanilla or fino sherry, or a tinto de verano.
- Eat late: lunch is around 14:00 to 16:00 and dinner rarely starts before 21:00.
Andalusian ingredients to look for
- Retinto beef: a native breed from western Andalusia and Extremadura, known for its flavour.
- Huelva seafood: the Huelva coast is famous for prawns, squid and white prawns (gamba blanca).
- Iberian ham: some of Spain’s most famous ham comes from the Huelva mountains.
- Salmorejo: a thick cold tomato soup from Córdoba, topped with egg and ham.
- Spanish omelette (tortilla): every bar has its own version.
What to see nearby
- Seville Cathedral and the Giralda: one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world.
- Real Alcázar: the royal palace with beautiful gardens and Mudéjar architecture.
- Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza: the historic bullring and museum.
- Torre del Oro: a 13th-century watchtower on the riverbank.
- Triana: across the Isabel II bridge, the traditional neighbourhood of ceramics and flamenco.
Tips for your visit
- Book a table, especially for the terrace in spring and on weekends.
- Check current hours before you go.
- Ask for the dishes of the day, as many tapas bars change their specials with the market.
- Tipping is not mandatory in Spain, but leaving a little for good service is appreciated.
FAQ
What are Islamorada Tapas Bar reviews like? My review is three stars overall. The portions were generous and the dishes tasty, and the terrace is a highlight.
Where is Islamorada in Seville? On Calle Francisco López Bordas in El Arenal, in the historic centre close to the Cathedral and the river.
What is on the Islamorada Tapas Bar menu? Tapas that mix Spanish flavours with international touches, such as garlic prawn omelette, fried squid from Huelva, crispy aubergine and Retinto beef mini burgers, plus homemade desserts.
Are the portions big? Yes. We were very full at the end, so ordering a few plates to share is a good idea.
What is Retinto beef? A native cattle breed from southwestern Spain, valued for its tasty meat.
Do I need to book? It is a good idea, especially for the terrace and at weekends.
