El Cortador Tapas Bar
Vibrant and unpretentious Spanish tapas bar offering authentic dishes and warm hospitality in Folkestone.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
El Cortador Tapas Bar
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vibrant and unpretentious Spanish tapas bar offering authentic dishes and warm hospitality in Folkestone.
"Best tapas we have had in a long time, and my partner is Spanish!"
Book Ahead
This popular spot books up quickly, so reservations are highly recommended to secure your table.
Indoor Comfort
For a more relaxed experience, opt for an inside table over the outdoor terrace.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Spanish
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+44 1303 243974
Address
41 The Old High St, Folkestone, CT20 1RL, United Kingdom
Website
elcortadorfolkestone.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Spanish Tapas
Experience a vibrant taste of Spain with classic tapas like paella, meatballs, and unique desserts, served in a relaxed atmosphere.
Charming Garden Ambiance
Enjoy delightful tapas and sangria in a secluded, sunny garden, perfect for a warm day escape.
Exceptional Service & Hospitality
Friendly and accommodating staff go the extra mile, making guests feel welcome and enhancing the dining experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead
This popular spot books up quickly, so reservations are highly recommended to secure your table.
Indoor Comfort
For a more relaxed experience, opt for an inside table over the outdoor terrace.
Generous Portions
Be mindful of portion sizes; staff can advise on ordering to avoid over-ordering.
Lunchtime Specials
Visit during lunch for discounted specials offering great value on multiple tapas.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead
This popular spot books up quickly, so reservations are highly recommended to secure your table.
Indoor Comfort
For a more relaxed experience, opt for an inside table over the outdoor terrace.
Generous Portions
Be mindful of portion sizes; staff can advise on ordering to avoid over-ordering.
Lunchtime Specials
Visit during lunch for discounted specials offering great value on multiple tapas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Cortador Tapas Bar is celebrated for its authentic Spanish cuisine and exceptionally friendly service, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Diners rave about the delicious food, generous portions, and the overall value for money. While most experiences are highly positive, some patrons have noted occasional issues with reservation availability and service consistency.
"Came here on my own while away with work. Was made to feel very welcome, was even advised by the lovely staff not to order too much but to see how I got on. They are obviously aware of their very generous portions. Food was amazing would definitely recommend. Great service great atmosphere top food defo recommend a visit."
chris woods
"Absolutely fantastic tapas restaurant!
ALL of the staff were incredible and even helped me embarrass my partner, by getting the whole restaurant to sing happy birthday to him (at my request)
Cannot fault the food or service, best tapas we have had in a long time, and my partner is Spanish!
We cannot wait to visit again!
Just make sure you book, as they book up very quickly and now we know why!!!
5*"
Sarah Dijksman
"The dining experience was very nice featuring excellent food and significantly improved service. It’s an ideal spot for enjoying a small bite to eat along with a glass of wine as you head out to a gathering or celebration. This place truly enhances the journey to any party!"
Funcle Marek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it's highly recommended to book a table in advance, especially during peak times, as the restaurant is very popular and tends to book up quickly.
Popular choices include paella, patatas bravas, chorizo in red wine, and the unique chocolate orange pot dessert.
Yes, there is a garden area for outdoor dining, which is lovely on a sunny day. For a more relaxed experience, consider an inside table.
Yes, the restaurant is welcoming to families, and they offer smaller portions suitable for children. Dogs are also welcome.
Yes, the restaurant offers vegan and vegetarian options, which are clearly indicated on their menus.
It's best to check their website or call ahead for the most up-to-date operating hours, as they can vary.
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Where to eat in Folkestone
Heading back into town there’s a raft of independent spots, such as long-time stalwart El Cortador serving classic tapas and sherry, or homemade breakfast crumpets at all-day venue Marleys. The Folkestone Wine Company is the restaurant anyone would love as their local, run by Dave Hart and Polly Pleasance, knocking out gems of wild seabass, saffron and chickpeas, or it could be rump of lamb with onion sauce – it’s tiny, cosy, and a favourite of chef Angela Harnett who raves about the crème brûlée.
Explore wonderful Folkestone, Kent
Other popular choices include Aspendos Turkish restaurant, Marleys, El Cortador tapas, Annapurna Nepalese restaurant, Steep Street Coffee House and Pickup Pintxos. Plant-based restaurant Dr Legumes, based in a converted shipping container in the harbour car park, is a Community Interest Company, serving great food in a stylish setting. And another highlight has to be the Leas Lift Café, which opened at the end of 2020.
Recommended Restaurants | The Relish
01303 243 97441 The Old High Street, Folkestone CT20 1RL Englandwww.elcortadorfolkestone.com. Cuisine - Traditional Spanish tapas A friendly and relaxed atmosphere. So whether you’re looking for a coffee or a snack at lunchtime, a quick drink or bite to eat before hitting the town - El Cortador is the place to go.
The Old High Street - Folkestone
Once you’ve done all that shopping you will need a sit down. El Cortador serves delicious tapas and pintxos which are great to share with your shopping buddies. Their garden outside is perfect for sipping sangria, and if it’s cold, then inside is warm enough to whisk you to Spain without the need for a coat.
Best restaurants in Folkestone
Cute and quirky El Cortador brings a little slice of Spain to the Creative Quarter in Folkestone. Browse its selection of tasty tapas plates, all of which are made using local and Spanish produce, alongside Spanish wines and beers.
The best restaurants and cafes in Folkestone, Kent
Tapas is heavenly at this restaurant with various traditional Spanish dishes. I've dined here once but would happily return as I was impressed by the assortment and how fulfilling all the dishes were.
I visited Folkestone's Creative Quarter for the first time and it was better than Bluewater - Sam Honey
If I was here for food and drink, again my options were plentiful thanks to the range of styles and cuisines on offer, with the El Cortador Tapas Bar particularly catching my eye.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit