CHELSEA, MANHATTAN
La Nacional
Paella and gambas in the basement of the 1868 Spanish Benevolent Society on 14th Street.
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IllustrationDownstairs at the Spanish Benevolent Society, founded in 1868 and one of the last pieces of the old Little Spain along 14th Street, La Nacional serves tapas and paella under blue mosaic-tiled tables and wicker chairs. It feels like a small-town plaza, until a truck rumbles by overhead.
Order gambas al ajillo, the wild mushroom croquetas and an ice-cold gazpacho, then a paella de mariscos for three or more. The society upstairs still hosts flamenco, tango and fútbol nights, so check what's on before you go.
Editor’s tip
Bring a group of three or four so you can order the paella, and check the events calendar for live flamenco.
Make an evening of it — beautiful stops nearby
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Editorial draft — core details last reviewed October 14, 2026. Confirm practical details with the official site before you go.