La Candela Española

- 3923 Amboy Rd, Staten Island, NY 10308

La Candela Española is a true Staten Island gem, representing a unique and exciting convergence of Spanish and Mexican culinary traditions right in the heart of the New York metropolitan area. This establishment, categorized as a Spanish restaurant, offers an expansive menu that masterfully blends the rich, complex flavors of Iberia with the bold, comforting tastes of Mexico. It is widely regarded as a solid choice for a satisfying meal with great taste, a reputation built on consistently fresh, flavorful ingredients and expertly prepared dishes. The atmosphere itself is a major draw, managing to be simultaneously Casual, Cozy, Romantic, and Trendy, making it a highly versatile venue suitable for virtually any occasion, from an intimate date night to a lively group gathering.

The menu at La Candela Española is exceptionally broad, offering distinct sections for both major cuisines, ensuring every palate finds something compelling. From the Spanish side, the Seafood section is a major highlight, featuring grand traditional dishes like Paella Valenciana and Paella Marinera, both of which are highly recommended by patrons, particularly when split for two people. Further luxurious options include the Twin Lobster Tails, Zarzuela De Mariscos (a combination of lobster tail, shrimp, scallops, clams, and mussels), and the classic Bacalhao Maria. The Steaks and Chops section also delivers robust Spanish-Portuguese influenced plates, such as the Skirt Steak Castelo, Pork & Clams Portuguese Style, and the premium 10oz Filet Mignon. These main courses are perfectly complemented by a variety of Side Dishes, including Spanish Fries, Saffron Rice, and Sautéed String Beans.

The Mexican Specialties section offers deeply flavorful dishes like Chilis Rellenos and Picadillo, along with numerous Mexican Combinations. This duality of cuisine ensures a unique offering in the New York market. The extensive Appetizers list serves both traditions, ranging from classic Spanish offerings like Prosciutto and Escargot to Mexican favorites such as Guacamole, Beef Empanadas, and various Quesadillas. The quality of preparation is noted by customers, who highlight that "the food was very fresh and well prepared," and that "the dishes were 100% freshly made and not frozen," a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality. The selection of Sangria, available in Red, White, or Peach, is described as a "must-try," with customers often ordering a full pitcher, confirming its status as a local specialty and a perfect accompaniment to the rich, flavorful cuisine.

La Candela Española is conveniently situated at 3923 Amboy Rd, Staten Island, NY 10308. This specific location places it within a vibrant community on Staten Island, making it a prominent and accessible dining fixture for locals and visitors alike. Recognizing the transportation needs of New Yorkers, the restaurant offers multiple parking solutions, including a Free Parking Lot, Free Street Parking, and a Paid Parking Lot, providing guests with flexible options regardless of how they choose to arrive.

Beyond vehicle access, the restaurant ensures comprehensive physical accessibility for all patrons. It features a Wheelchair Accessible Entrance, a Wheelchair Accessible Restroom, and Wheelchair Accessible Seating, demonstrating a full commitment to comfort and ease of navigation for individuals with mobility needs. The interior amenities further enhance the dining experience, with a dedicated Bar onsite and a clean Restroom available. Transactions are made simple and modern, as the restaurant accepts all major Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and the rapid convenience of NFC Mobile Payments. The establishment even extends a welcome to pets, as Dogs are allowed outside, catering to those who prefer to dine with their canine companions in the fresh air.

La Candela Española provides a robust array of services designed to meet the diverse and demanding needs of the New York dining audience:

• Dine-in: Patrons can enjoy the full experience of the Cozy and Romantic atmosphere, benefiting from attentive Table service. The restaurant Accepts reservations, which is highly beneficial for planning special occasions or guaranteeing seating for Groups.
• Delivery and Takeout: For maximum convenience, both standard Delivery and Takeout services are offered, allowing customers to enjoy the fresh and flavorful food at home or work.
• Catering and Family Dinner Specials: The menu includes Family Dinner Specials for dishes like Chicken Francese and Paella Valenciana, which translate perfectly into Catering services, making the restaurant an excellent option for hosting parties or large gatherings with high-quality, pre-planned meals.
• Extensive Beverage Program: The restaurant boasts a Great beer selection, a Great wine list, and a variety of Cocktails and Hard liquor, all served from the Bar onsite. This range of Alcohol offerings is perfect for pairing with the rich Spanish and Mexican cuisine.
• Dining Versatility: The restaurant is Popular for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining, catering to a wide range of mealtime needs. Dessert options like Xango-Fried Cheese Cake and Chocolate Mousse ensure a complete dining experience.
• Family and Children’s Amenities: Recognized as Family-friendly and "Good for kids," the restaurant includes High chairs and even offers a Kids' menu, ensuring a comfortable environment for all ages.

The distinct features of La Candela Española solidify its status as a must-visit dining spot in Staten Island:

• Exceptional Beverage Program: The highlight of the bar is the Great wine list and Great beer selection, complemented by the incredibly popular, house-made Sangria, which is a key item that "always" prompts a pitcher order from regulars.
• Unique Culinary Fusion: The successful and extensive combination of traditional Spanish and bold Mexican cuisines in one menu—from Paella to Chili Con Carne—provides a unique and appealing dining proposition in the New York market.
• Atmosphere and Vibe: The ability to maintain a distinctly Casual, Cozy, Romantic, and Trendy atmosphere concurrently makes it highly adaptable for various occasions, from a spontaneous dinner to a special, planned evening.
• Service Excellence: The restaurant is recognized for its Fast service and the extremely friendly staff, including the explicit praise given to the owner, Joe, and the bartender, Frank, confirming a high standard of personalized customer care.
• Menu Diversity and Quality: The commitment to serving "fresh and flavorful" food that is "100% freshly made and not frozen" is a significant draw. The menu includes both traditional Comfort food and lighter Healthy options and Vegetarian options. Furthermore, the restaurant serves a local specialty (implied to be the Paella/Sangria combination), appealing directly to local tastes.
• Generous Portions: Customers note that the portions are generous, ensuring a satisfying meal and confirming that the Paella Valenciana is specifically sized for two people when ordered a la carte, demonstrating excellent value.

For making a reservation, inquiring about the Family Dinner Specials, or placing an order for takeout or delivery, please use the contact details below:

• Address: 3923 Amboy Rd, Staten Island, NY 10308
• Phone: (718) 356-8798
• Mobile Phone: +1 718-356-8798

La Candela Española offers a highly compelling case for New Yorkers seeking an exceptional and multi-faceted dining experience. The primary reason for choosing this Staten Island location is the sheer breadth and quality of its culinary offerings. Where else can one find a restaurant that excels equally in both the rich seafood of a Paella Valenciana and the bold flavors of a Steak Ranchero or Mexican Combinations? The fact that the food is guaranteed to be "fresh and flavorful" and "100% freshly made" assures a premium quality that stands out in the casual dining segment. The menu caters to every desire, from the light simplicity of the House Salad and Sautéed Broccoli to the indulgence of the Surf And Turf Stuffed With Crabmeat and the various desserts.

Secondly, the atmosphere and staff create an environment that transforms a simple meal into an enjoyable event. The unique blend of Romantic, Cozy, and Trendy elements makes it suitable for all purposes, and the explicit praise for the "extremely friendly" staff, including the named owner and bartender, signifies a high level of personalized, authentic hospitality—a quality highly valued by discerning New York patrons. The Fast service feature ensures that quality is delivered efficiently.

Finally, the logistical convenience and comprehensive amenities make dining here frictionless. The availability of multiple parking options (including free choices) and the full wheelchair accessibility ensure a stress-free visit for everyone. Furthermore, the extensive selection of high-quality beverages, highlighted by the Great wine list and must-try Sangria, provides the perfect pairing for the diverse menu. La Candela Española is more than just a Spanish restaurant; it is a full-service, high-quality, and deeply welcoming culinary experience—a true gem that provides incredible food, outstanding service, and great value for the entire Staten Island community.