The Place Opened by Spanish owners, Next Door Spanish Cafe is a quaint restaurant in the Siglap neighbourhood along East Coast Road. I checked out the restaurant for dinner and was surprised to spot an alfresco dining area which reminds me a little of a beer garden setting. The indoor space is not huge, and the tables are ideal for couples or bigger dining groups. The interior is slightly dated by now, though it is quite a cosy and unpretentious space. 

The Food I started with the Bikini (S$16) sandwich, a classic Spanish tapas. Served in sliced portions, it is a satisfying starter where the toast is crispy with a slight tinge of truffle flavour. 

I am always up for the Tortilla de Patatas (S$9), also known as the traditional Spanish omelette. Served in a fluffy pie fashion, it is a decent rendition though I prefer the omelette to be more buttery. 

The Gambas al Ajillo (S$15) with Atlantic prawns and garlic is awesome. Served with bread, the best way to have it is to dip the bread into the flavourful jus. 

For mains, I chose the Paella de Marisco (S$32), a classic seafood paella. Served in a hot iron pan, the texture of the paella is moist with a generous serving of clams, prawns and squid. The paella is flavourful without coming across as too cloying. 

Rants Limited parking lots along the road if you were to drive. Otherwise, be sure to reserve well ahead as the space isn’t huge. 

Will I Return Again? If you are looking for an unpretentious Spanish restaurant, Next Door Spanish Cafe is worth trying. The dishes are not extraordinarily different, but it does not disappoint. 

TheRantingPanda says: 
Taste bud: 4/5 
Hole in the pocket: 3.5/5 
Ambience: 3/5
Overall Experience: 4/5 

Next Door Spanish Café 
699 East Coast Road 
Singapore 459061 
Tel: +65 8168 4009 

Opening Hours 
Monday to Wednesday: 5pm to 10.30pm 
Thursday to Sunday: 12pm to 10.30pm (2pm to 5:30pm serving cold tapas) 

Ranted by The Ranter