Is there parking nearby, and how hard is it to find a spot?

Parking in the Gaslamp Quarter is tight but doable — street parking exists but fills up fast, especially at night. Your best bet is one of the paid lots a block or two away. If you're coming for dinner or live music on a weekend, arrive early or expect to circle a bit.

Do I need a reservation, or can I just walk in?

They take reservations and you should use them, especially for dinner or if you're coming with a group — the place fills up quickly, particularly on weekends when the live music starts. Walk-ins are possible during slower hours (late afternoon), but don't count on it.

What should I order first?

Get the paella — the seafood paella marinara is legendary and comes in a single size that's actually huge enough for 2–3 people. The Patatas Bravas and Ensalada Mallorca are solid starters, though fair warning: their Patatas Bravas leans heavily on aioli and isn't traditional Spanish style. The Gambas Al Ajillo is garlicky and worth it if you love shrimp.

Is this place good for vegetarians?

Not really their strength — it's a Spanish spot built around seafood and meat. The vegetable options exist but aren't the main event. If you're vegetarian, call ahead to understand what they can do, or plan to make tapas work for you.

Can I bring my dog, and is there outdoor seating?

Yes, they're pet-friendly with outdoor seating in the Gaslamp Quarter, so your dog can join you on the patio. This is a great spot for a date night or casual dinner outside where you can people-watch and catch live music.

What time should I go to avoid a long wait?

Show up around 5 pm when they open — you'll have your pick of tables and can enjoy happy hour sangria without the crowd. Saturday nights around 7:45 pm are packed with live performers, so if you want that energy, book ahead; if you want peace, come earlier.

Are there dietary options for gluten-free or dairy-free diners?

Yes — the seafood paella marinara is marked as both gluten and dairy-free, which is a rare find at a spot like this. They're aware of these needs, so mention your restrictions when ordering and they'll guide you through what works.

Cafe Sevilla of San Diego — Restaurants in Gaslamp Quarter,…

“Cafe Sevilla throws paella, flamenco, and nightclub energy under one roof—the rare Gaslamp spot that feeds you dinner before turning into a dance floor.”

**What makes this different:** While competitors like Tacos El Gordo own the late-night street-taco lane and The Waves keeps things low-key, Cafe Sevilla goes full theatrical—live music, dancing, and a kitchen that doesn't apologize for big portions or bigger flavor. This is the spot where dinner bleeds into drinks bleeds into dancing, and nobody's checking their watch.

The paella is legitimately massive. Order the "single" and you're feeding three people, maybe four if they're reasonable. Seafood marinara comes out in a traditional skillet with that crucial crispy rice layer at the bottom—socarrat, if you want to sound like you know what you're doing. It's gluten and dairy-free without tasting like compromise, which matters if you're navigating dietary restrictions in a neighborhood built on fried everything.

Tapas follow Spanish logic: gambas al ajillo shows up garlicky as hell with fewer shrimp than you'd expect but enough flavor to justify the plate. Papas bravas run spicy and generous—not the austere Madrid version, but a SoCal interpretation that leans into aioli. The tortilla española does what it's supposed to: warm, eggy, dependable.

Get there before 6pm if you want quiet. By 7:30, performers are setting up and the energy shifts. Outdoor seating on Fifth Avenue gives you breathing room when the inside gets loud. Reservations help on weekends, though walk-ins can snag bar seats if they're flexible.

This works for business lunches that want a little flair, date nights that might turn into dancing, or late-night groups who need food before the clubs. It's tourist-friendly without being a trap, locals-approved without being gatekept. Just know what you're walking into: Cafe Sevilla doesn't do subtle.

Cafe Sevilla of San Diego

FAQ

Google Reviews

BonVivant Reviews

Similar Spots

The Waves Taco Club

Tacos El Gordo

Complementary Spots

The Whiskey House

Eddie V's Prime Seafood

Contact & Hours

Señor Taquero