This past weekend, Toronto got a special visit from NBA Champion and fan-favourite former Raptor Serge Ibaka, who flew in from Spain, where he’s been playing with Real Madrid Baloncesto, to bring a little Madrid magic to the city. But this time not to ball, but rather to put his stamp of approval on his favourite Spanish restaurants across the city.
Noticing that Toronto doesn’t have a dedicated Spanish district, Serge decided to change that—at least in spirit. Enter the “Serge Stamp List,” his hand-picked guide to the city’s must-visit Spanish-inspired spots.
In partnership with Madrí Excepcional, a premium beer channelling the soul of Madrid, Serge set out to explore and celebrate Toronto’s hidden Spanish gems. From cozy tapas bars to vibrant eateries, he visited his favourites, leaving behind his official stamp on each window—a sign that these local spots have earned his seal of approval.
ADVERTISEMENT |
Here are the Toronto restaurant spots that got Serge Ibaka’s stamp of approval:
A little inside scoop, one of his favourite Spanish dishes is paella, and our editor-in-chief could not agree more. Every time you ask him what his favourite memory of Spain is, it’s walking the streets of Valencia and smelling the Paella in the streets!
And guess what the favourite spots are for Ibaka? 😉 Scroll through and find out.
1. The Spanish Pig
📍 77 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, ON M6R 2K6
The Spanish Pig offers a curated selection of artisanal charcutería, conservas, and fine wines, all rooted in the authentic flavours of Spain.
ADVERTISEMENT |
2. La Paella
📍 1146 Queen Street East, Toronto, ON M4M 1L1
La Paella started as a Spanish catering company in the GTA in 2010, founded by partners Gabriel and Angel. In 2017, they opened a storefront in Leslieville, shifting their focus from catering to running a restaurant.
3. Tapas at Embrujo
📍 97 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1N2
Tapas at Embrujo is known for their traditional dishes with live Flamenco performances. Led by Chef Jose Salgado, whose work has been featured on the Food Network, Breakfast Television, and Telelatino, the menu highlights classic tapas such as tortilla de patatas, gambas al ajillo, and paella. The restaurant also hosts weekly Flamenco shows with performers from Spain, creating an atmosphere that reflects the country’s culinary and cultural traditions.
4. Campo Restaurant
📍 244 Jane Street, Toronto, ON M6S 3Y8
ADVERTISEMENT |
Campo serves Italian- and Spanish-inspired cuisine, with a focus on simple, rustic, handmade dishes crafted from locally and seasonally sourced ingredients. Founded in 2014 by chef and owner Carlos Ventura, the restaurant’s name, meaning “field” or “countryside” in his native language, reflects a connection to food, community, and a sense of home.
5. Casa Barcelona
📍 2980 Bloor St W, Etobicoke, ON M8X 1B9
Casa Barcelona, located on Bloor Street West in Etobicoke, has been a long-standing spot in the community, known for its welcoming atmosphere suited to everything from family meals to special occasions. Over the years, it has also offered experiences such as cooking classes and wine tastings.
ADVERTISEMENT |
6. Cafe de Madrid
📍137 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville, ON L6J 1H3
Based in Oakville, Café de Madrid showcases the flavours and traditions of Spanish cuisine, with paella at the heart of its menu.
Honourary mention
Despite not being on Serge Ibaka’s list, our EiC always raves about this place’s amazing Paella and good vibes…and that is: Beso by Patria on King St W. Which is also always a common backdrop for TIFF parties, and celebrity frequented too.
ADVERTISEMENT |
But let us know which ones are your favourites? We’ll wait. Just find us at the bar sipping a Madri Excepcional with some Tapas. 😉
