About Los Reyes Tapas Restaurant

Description

If you’re trawling around Hitchin for somewhere to eat that feels a little different from the typical Friday-night fare, Los Reyes Tapas Restaurant might just be your kind of place. Walking inside, there’s an immediate hum of quiet chatter and clinking glasses—like stepping straight into a friend’s lively living room, but with better lighting and way more jamón. There’s a kind of relaxed confidence about the atmosphere: it’s casual, yet just romantic enough for date nights; hip, but not trying too hard with faux 'rustic' décor. I’ve always believed good food should start with comfort, and Los Reyes leans into this with every detail.

Now, I’ve spent enough time in Spain to know what makes tapas feel authentic, and here you get an excellent balance of time-honored flavors and a few creative surprises that raise an eyebrow (in the good way). The menu’s loaded with classic hot and cold small plates—think melt-in-your-mouth chorizo, succulent gambas al ajillo, and that inevitable mountain of patatas bravas—plus a pretty impressive charcuterie option if you appreciate salty, perfectly cured meats. And if, like me, you believe that any meal without a drink in hand is unfinished business, wait till you see the drinks list. The beer selection is surprisingly thorough for a tapas joint, and there's a wine menu that doesn’t just stick to the obvious Spanish reds, but ventures into some unexpected territory. I confess: the cocktails here punch above their weight.

For travelers, especially those new to Spanish dining customs, it’s easy to fall into the trap of ordering just what you know. But here’s my tip—ask the staff what’s popular right now and just roll with it. The team genuinely seems excited to talk food (I overheard a debate about the best time to eat churros – the answer, apparently, is always). The crowd is a merry mix—groups celebrating, couples whispering, the odd solo diner quietly sampling from half the menu. There’s a certain inclusivity to the vibe, with families, LGBTQ+ guests, and tourists all equally at home, which I’ve found isn’t always the case elsewhere. Wheelchair users will find thoughtful touches in seating, though it’s worth noting that parking isn’t as accessible.

But with all the good stuff, I like being real with you—service can get a touch slow during peak hours, and you may want to pace your drinks if you’re in a rush! The buzz can get loud, which honestly just adds to that 'Madrid bodega' energy, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a super quiet meal. Out on the terrace, though, everything dials down a notch; there’s nothing quite like sipping an ice-cold Estrella on a warm English evening while sharing olives and people-watching.

In short: Los Reyes is playful, proud of its Spanish roots, and pretty committed to offering more than just a meal. Show up with an appetite for adventure (and carbs), and you’ll leave just a little bit happier than you arrived—at least, I always do.

Key Features

  • Tapas-style menu with both hot and cold plates—ideal for sharing or for the indecisive (guilty as charged!)
  • Craft beer selection and a curated wine list with Spanish and international choices
  • Standout cocktails and premium coffee if you need a mid-day pick-me-up
  • Delectable desserts—you’d be crazy to skip the churros or the creamy flan
  • Outdoor seating available, perfect for people-watching on sunny days
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance and seating for added comfort
  • Vegetarian and healthy options—you don’t have to be a carnivore to eat well here
  • Catering available for groups and special events (trust me, your birthday wishes will come true with enough tapas)
  • Gender-neutral restroom and Wi-Fi—a small but meaningful touch for inclusivity and those checking emails between courses
  • LGBTQ+ friendly and a recognized safe space for transgender guests
  • Great for celebrations, families, and yes, even slipping away solo for lunch (nobody will judge how many plates you try)
  • Lunch and dinner service with online reservations highly recommended during weekends
  • Accepts contactless payments including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments
  • Table service, so you can kick back and let the plates roll in
  • Late-night food available for those lingering evenings when conversation keeps stretching past dessert

Best Time to Visit

Picking the “best” time to visit Los Reyes Tapas Restaurant really depends on what you’re after. If you’re like me and value a lazy lunch where you can actually hear your companions (or your own thoughts), aim for midweek afternoons. I’ve popped by on a random Wednesday at 1:30pm before, and it was blissfully unhurried; staff chatted happily, sun poured onto the terrace, and there was none of that ‘are-we-in-the-way-here’ vibe you sometimes get in packed spots.

For dinner, Thursday to Saturday evenings are lively—sometimes standing-room-only lively. That’s great for anyone craving a sparkling, sociable atmosphere, but definitely book ahead, since tables evaporate fast. If you love rubbing shoulders with other food fans and don’t mind louder chatter, these peak nights offer lots of energy. Sunday lunches, on the other hand, carry a more family-friendly feel (children’s high chairs available, which is particularly helpful if the little ones eat at unpredictable speeds).

And if you’re the “late-night nibbler” type: Los Reyes does a late service so you can slide in after a show or movie. A word to the wise, though: desserts and some specials can run out by late evening, so don’t procrastinate if you’re after something specific!

How to Get There

Reaching Los Reyes is actually one of the less stressful parts of eating out in Hitchin. If you’re coming by train, it’s a pleasant 10-minute stroll from the main station—good time to work up an appetite (or walk off round one of tapas, in my case). For drivers, city centre parking is available nearby, but I’ll admit—weekends eat up spaces quickly, so public transit’s your best friend during busy times.

Buses drop off just a stone’s throw from the restaurant as well, with local routes covering most of Hitchin and beyond. Cyclists: there are racks outside, perfect if you’re combining exercise with indulgence (is that cheating? Probably). For wheelchair users, the entrance and seating are accessible, but do double-check parking access if you need a spot close by; it can be a little tricky on market days especially.

Quick side note: while takeaway and delivery are not available, it genuinely encourages you to dine in and soak up the fuller experience (trust me, sharing patatas bravas over Zoom isn’t the same).

Tips for Visiting

  • Book ahead—especially for dinner and weekends.
    If you take only one thing from this, let it be to reserve your seat early. Tables go fast, and the walk-in wait list can be long. I’ve learned my lesson after a 40-minute “just pop in” miscalculation.
  • Ask for staff recommendations.
    These folks know their menu and are genuinely excited about sharing the best seasonal bites. I once discovered grilled padrón peppers this way, now I dream about them.
  • Try dishes outside your comfort zone.
    Spanish small plates are all about variety—now’s the time for culinary adventure. Never tried octopus carpaccio? This is your moment.
  • Split several plates among your group.
    A little bit of everything is always better than a single plate (and you get bragging rights at the table).
  • Arrive early if you want alfresco seating.
    The outdoor patio is a prime spot on sunny days, but it fills up quickly, especially in the late afternoon.
  • Don’t skip dessert or coffee.
    The churros have a cult following, and the coffee is actually strong enough to jolt you awake after one tapa too many.
  • Use the Wi-Fi if you need to work or share your meal on the ‘gram.
    The connection is reliable, and yes, it’s okay to take a picture before you dig in (I’m guilty, too).

Key Features

  • Tapas-style menu with both hot and cold plates—ideal for sharing or for the indecisive (guilty as charged!)
  • Craft beer selection and a curated wine list with Spanish and international choices
  • Standout cocktails and premium coffee if you need a mid-day pick-me-up
  • Delectable desserts—you’d be crazy to skip the churros or the creamy flan
  • Outdoor seating available, perfect for people-watching on sunny days
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance and seating for added comfort
  • Vegetarian and healthy options—you don’t have to be a carnivore to eat well here
  • Catering available for groups and special events (trust me, your birthday wishes will come true with enough tapas)

More Details

Updated July 4, 2025

Description

If you’re trawling around Hitchin for somewhere to eat that feels a little different from the typical Friday-night fare, Los Reyes Tapas Restaurant might just be your kind of place. Walking inside, there’s an immediate hum of quiet chatter and clinking glasses—like stepping straight into a friend’s lively living room, but with better lighting and way more jamón. There’s a kind of relaxed confidence about the atmosphere: it’s casual, yet just romantic enough for date nights; hip, but not trying too hard with faux ‘rustic’ décor. I’ve always believed good food should start with comfort, and Los Reyes leans into this with every detail.

Now, I’ve spent enough time in Spain to know what makes tapas feel authentic, and here you get an excellent balance of time-honored flavors and a few creative surprises that raise an eyebrow (in the good way). The menu’s loaded with classic hot and cold small plates—think melt-in-your-mouth chorizo, succulent gambas al ajillo, and that inevitable mountain of patatas bravas—plus a pretty impressive charcuterie option if you appreciate salty, perfectly cured meats. And if, like me, you believe that any meal without a drink in hand is unfinished business, wait till you see the drinks list. The beer selection is surprisingly thorough for a tapas joint, and there’s a wine menu that doesn’t just stick to the obvious Spanish reds, but ventures into some unexpected territory. I confess: the cocktails here punch above their weight.

For travelers, especially those new to Spanish dining customs, it’s easy to fall into the trap of ordering just what you know. But here’s my tip—ask the staff what’s popular right now and just roll with it. The team genuinely seems excited to talk food (I overheard a debate about the best time to eat churros – the answer, apparently, is always). The crowd is a merry mix—groups celebrating, couples whispering, the odd solo diner quietly sampling from half the menu. There’s a certain inclusivity to the vibe, with families, LGBTQ+ guests, and tourists all equally at home, which I’ve found isn’t always the case elsewhere. Wheelchair users will find thoughtful touches in seating, though it’s worth noting that parking isn’t as accessible.

But with all the good stuff, I like being real with you—service can get a touch slow during peak hours, and you may want to pace your drinks if you’re in a rush! The buzz can get loud, which honestly just adds to that ‘Madrid bodega’ energy, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a super quiet meal. Out on the terrace, though, everything dials down a notch; there’s nothing quite like sipping an ice-cold Estrella on a warm English evening while sharing olives and people-watching.

In short: Los Reyes is playful, proud of its Spanish roots, and pretty committed to offering more than just a meal. Show up with an appetite for adventure (and carbs), and you’ll leave just a little bit happier than you arrived—at least, I always do.

Key Features

  • Tapas-style menu with both hot and cold plates—ideal for sharing or for the indecisive (guilty as charged!)
  • Craft beer selection and a curated wine list with Spanish and international choices
  • Standout cocktails and premium coffee if you need a mid-day pick-me-up
  • Delectable desserts—you’d be crazy to skip the churros or the creamy flan
  • Outdoor seating available, perfect for people-watching on sunny days
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance and seating for added comfort
  • Vegetarian and healthy options—you don’t have to be a carnivore to eat well here
  • Catering available for groups and special events (trust me, your birthday wishes will come true with enough tapas)
  • Gender-neutral restroom and Wi-Fi—a small but meaningful touch for inclusivity and those checking emails between courses
  • LGBTQ+ friendly and a recognized safe space for transgender guests
  • Great for celebrations, families, and yes, even slipping away solo for lunch (nobody will judge how many plates you try)
  • Lunch and dinner service with online reservations highly recommended during weekends
  • Accepts contactless payments including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments
  • Table service, so you can kick back and let the plates roll in
  • Late-night food available for those lingering evenings when conversation keeps stretching past dessert

Best Time to Visit

Picking the “best” time to visit Los Reyes Tapas Restaurant really depends on what you’re after. If you’re like me and value a lazy lunch where you can actually hear your companions (or your own thoughts), aim for midweek afternoons. I’ve popped by on a random Wednesday at 1:30pm before, and it was blissfully unhurried; staff chatted happily, sun poured onto the terrace, and there was none of that ‘are-we-in-the-way-here’ vibe you sometimes get in packed spots.

For dinner, Thursday to Saturday evenings are lively—sometimes standing-room-only lively. That’s great for anyone craving a sparkling, sociable atmosphere, but definitely book ahead, since tables evaporate fast. If you love rubbing shoulders with other food fans and don’t mind louder chatter, these peak nights offer lots of energy. Sunday lunches, on the other hand, carry a more family-friendly feel (children’s high chairs available, which is particularly helpful if the little ones eat at unpredictable speeds).

And if you’re the “late-night nibbler” type: Los Reyes does a late service so you can slide in after a show or movie. A word to the wise, though: desserts and some specials can run out by late evening, so don’t procrastinate if you’re after something specific!

How to Get There

Reaching Los Reyes is actually one of the less stressful parts of eating out in Hitchin. If you’re coming by train, it’s a pleasant 10-minute stroll from the main station—good time to work up an appetite (or walk off round one of tapas, in my case). For drivers, city centre parking is available nearby, but I’ll admit—weekends eat up spaces quickly, so public transit’s your best friend during busy times.

Buses drop off just a stone’s throw from the restaurant as well, with local routes covering most of Hitchin and beyond. Cyclists: there are racks outside, perfect if you’re combining exercise with indulgence (is that cheating? Probably). For wheelchair users, the entrance and seating are accessible, but do double-check parking access if you need a spot close by; it can be a little tricky on market days especially.

Quick side note: while takeaway and delivery are not available, it genuinely encourages you to dine in and soak up the fuller experience (trust me, sharing patatas bravas over Zoom isn’t the same).

Tips for Visiting

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