About This Spot

Stepping into Circulo Español in the heart of Astoria, you’re gently welcomed by a space that balances a refined elegance with the easy warmth of a neighborhood gathering spot. There’s a quiet hum of conversation and clinking glasses, paired with the rich, inviting aromas that hint at the coastal and countryside traditions of Spain. Whether you settle by a lively bar with its friendly buzz or find a seat in the main dining area, the atmosphere feels unhurried—a place for savoring moments as much as the food.

The pace here encourages lingering. It’s the kind of restaurant where a shared plate of patatas bravas or grilled octopus invites stories to unfold across the table. Glasses of sangria—or a crisp beer from the Alhambra Roja—come alive alongside dishes that blend the rustic with the vibrant, like a seafood paella rich with flavors of the Mediterranean. The kitchen’s touch on classic staples, from Empanadillas to the slow-cooked lamb chops, creates a tapestry of tastes that evoke distant places without ever rushing the experience.

You might notice the subtle hum of a flamenco guitar or the anticipation of a local show on the upstairs stage, underscoring the cultural heartbeat that pulses beneath the warm lighting and tasteful décor. The attentive, considerate staff add a quiet personal note, making newcomers and regulars alike feel at home—another layer of comfort in a city neighborhood rich with diversity.

Circulo Español feels like a meeting point: where the familiar warmth of Spanish culinary tradition meets the spirited vibe of Astoria’s vibrant community, offering not just a meal but a welcoming invitation to slow down, connect, and discover a bit of Spain tucked into Queens.

What’s Available Here

  • IconKerbside pickup
  • IconTakeaway
  • IconDine-in
  • IconFast service
  • IconGreat coffee
  • IconGreat wine list
  • IconLive music
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconSolo dining
  • IconWheelchair-accessible entrance
  • IconWheelchair-accessible seating
  • IconWheelchair-accessible toilet
  • IconAlcohol
  • IconBeer
  • IconCocktails
  • IconCoffee
  • IconComfort food
  • IconHealthy options
  • IconQuick bite
  • IconSmall plates
  • IconSpirits
  • IconWine
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconCatering
  • IconDessert
  • IconSeating
  • IconTable service
  • IconBar on site
  • IconToilet
  • IconCasual
  • IconCosy
  • IconFamily friendly
  • IconGroups
  • IconLGBTQ+ friendly
  • IconDinner reservations recommended
  • IconAccepts reservations
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconDebit cards
  • IconNFC mobile payments
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconGood for kids
  • IconHigh chairs

Location & Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 02:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Friday 01:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Saturday 01:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Sunday 12:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Guest Reviews

Juan Carlos Montoya 15 Dec 2025

There is a main sitting area which I thought was too fancy for me. I sat down in front of a huge TV by the bar. It was the best experience I’ve had in a few months. I ordered the paella. I am very happy I did because now I have a paella restaurant to go to. I paired it with a sangria red. It’s too bad my wife and I were alone to enjoy it because I think it was too much sangria for me. However, it was a very nice experience. We also tried the fried calamari. I loved it. I will give the fried calamari a second place in my memory. I’m back for more. They are back open after a summer vacation getaway. It’s early August and I got the craving again for some Paella. This time, however, I tried the pasta, instead of rice paella. They call it Fideua. It stands for the word pasta in Spanish. Fideos or short thin pasta is what holds together the dish. I love this place. Of course you get the friendliest staff I have had the delight to be aquatinted with. I asked her how the Florida vacation went. She was happy to answer. This people treat you like family. I will definitely go back. Mid-August for my birthday? Maybe. Talk soon.

Vivianne Barretto 08 Dec 2025

This place was recommended to us and I'm very happy that we followed up on the recommendation. The food was . I had the Madrid Strew (Chickpeas and Tripe with Chorizo), my Mom had Mussels, Scampi style and our friend had Fried Calamari. We were all very happy with our appetizers. Then for our entrées, we all had Merluza which in English is Hake. We each had it in a different preparation. There was grilled, stewed and breaded. Mine was Grilled and it came with vegetables and a choice of a side. I chose Boiled Potatoes. My Mom chose to have it in Stew which is served in sauce and with Potatoes and our friend chose the Breaded version with a choice of a side. She had the French Fries. We were all happy with the preparation we chose. The servings were large. We all took food home. We all had Flan for dessert and it was very good. My Mom had Wine, our friend had Sangria and I had Estrella, a beer from Spain. The prices are very good here. The service is excellent. We came in the afternoon but in the evenings they have entertainment. I don't know if it's every evening or only on certain evenings. I have to look into that. The space reminds me of a small scale Supper Club. There is also a area off to the side with a Bar, t.v.'s and seats. We will definitely go back, maybe when they have a show. I also have to say, we've been to Spain on several occasions and the food here is as good and even better than in some Restaurants in Spain. Forgot to mention that we each got a Bailey's, on the house. It's very rare for restaurants to do that nowadays.

Karilu Ruiz-duran 04 Dec 2025

The restaurant is beautiful. The staff is very attentive. The steaks and sangria were very good. The seafood paella was okay. My only complain is that they have a stage and they didn't do any show for mothers day weekend. They talk about doing events on the second floor last week. If they had a flamenco dance show on the stage, I can assure you the restaurant would be packed.

Will Zagst 03 Dec 2025

Everyone there is extremely polite , the sodas were good and the fried potatoes were amazing , my fav was the shrimp And the potatoes that came With the oxtail ( had great gravy on them from the oxtail ) the paella was ok , rice was a bit over cooked and the shrimp I like to be bigger ( like Fresh ) these ones were like from the freezer bag still very delicious, they do Shows ANd stuff so I’ll be back to try again :)

Lexi 25 Nov 2025

We ran into the nicest old Spanish guy on the street. He doesn’t speak too much English, but he was so warm and really tried to tell us to try this place. It turns out to be amazing!!

Chris Escala 23 Nov 2025

This is the top place not only to eat food from Spain but also to enjoy a great time as it truly makes you feel at Spain. The food is vast, diverse, and superbly delicious. From the paella to the tapas and the sangria. It's a great spot to reminisce Spain ???????? you'll definitely feel at Iberia. Ole!

Jared Cohee 10 Nov 2025

SPAIN ???????? Eat the World NYC review: Now just two years shy of their 50th anniversary, the Centro Español de Queens has lived in its current Astoria home since 1985. Originally called the Circulo Español when formed in 1971, the organization has always had the mission of preserving the Spanish culture of its members and their children. The third major wave of Spanish immigration to the United States that took place during the 60's, 70's and 80's created strong communities here in New York City, always one of the major destinations. Nowadays many of the members have been here for decades and multiple generations of descendants have grown up in this country, but the center acts as a hub to return to with family for celebrations and comradery. While run separately from the Centro, the restaurant is an important part of the daily operations. Walking up to the bar not only brings you a transition into Spanish culture, but also seems like a bubble away from the rapidly changing streets of Astoria. Nothing served here in the Circulo Español is intended to knock your socks off, but it all gives a deep feeling of being homestyle. Meals seem like they are served by your aunt and uncle who farm in the countryside after you drove two hours to get to their home. The views out the window lack the vistas of rolling hills like Galicia, but as each new dish hits the table it is not hard to imagine them instead of Queens.

Armando I 06 Nov 2025

Hidden gem off of Broadway and Steinway Street. Food is always prepared with love and everything on the menu is a must have! I recommend the sangria with any paella option. Check the site for shows and dances. I’m sure they will have a special for New Year’s Eve!

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