Lena at Mercado Little Spain is one of those dining spots that immediately transports you somewhere else – in this case, straight to Spain. Tucked inside José Andrés’ sprawling Spanish food hall beneath Hudson Yards, this charcoal-focused restaurant delivers an authentic experience that stands out even among the market’s impressive offerings.

What makes Lena special is its dedication to the ancient art of cooking over live fire. The open kitchen with its wood-burning grill infuses everything with a subtle smokiness that elevates each dish. Their paella, cooked traditionally over orange wood, develops that coveted socarrat (the crispy bottom layer) that paella enthusiasts dream about. The grilled seafood – especially the tender octopus and whole branzino – tastes like it was pulled straight from Mediterranean waters.

The atmosphere strikes that perfect Spanish balance between lively and laid-back. The space feels both rustic and modern with its terracotta tones and sleek design elements. It’s surprisingly affordable given the quality, especially if you go for the shareable dishes and a bottle from their well-curated Spanish wine list.

What’s most compelling about Lena is how it offers a genuine taste of Spain without requiring a passport – the kind of place where you can linger over small plates, sip vermouth, and momentarily forget you’re in Midtown Manhattan.