Spain’s got no shortage of culinary gems — but some of the best bites come from fellow expats who brought flavours from home and blended them with local flair. Whether you’re after full English breakfasts, Asian-fusion tapas, or Aussie-style brunch, here are some standout spots across Spain.
The Breakfast Club, Barcelona
Owned by a British couple who missed proper fry-ups, this cosy café is a hit with locals and expats alike. Think full English, real tea, and a killer bacon sarnie.
Bao Bar, Valencia
This street-food style restaurant was founded by a Thai-American expat and serves up Southeast Asian fusion with Spanish ingredients. Try the pork belly bao or green curry gyoza.
Meat & Eat, Madrid
Run by a couple from the US and Argentina, this urban diner blends juicy burgers with Latin-American sides and a killer house-made chimichurri.
Little Collins, Seville
An Aussie-run café serving the best flat whites in Andalusia, plus brunch staples with an international twist. Avocado toast with paprika oil? Yes please.
The Deli Room, Malaga
A British deli meets Spanish bodega. Artisan cheeses, scotch eggs, imported crisps, and proper conversation. A home-away-from-home for foodies missing a bit of the UK.
Why We Love Expat-Owned Spots
- You get quality AND creativity
- There’s often a story behind every dish
- They create hubs for community and connection
Final Thoughts
Expat-owned restaurants aren’t just about the food — they’re about identity, risk, and reinvention. When you support them, you’re supporting someone else’s adventure abroad.
Know a great expat-run restaurant in your area? Message us and we’ll check it out for a future spotlight on Expat Radio Magazine.
