Tucked away on East 36th Street, Toledo Restaurant offers a slice of Spanish culinary magic that’s worth seeking out. The moment you step inside, the warm terracotta colors and ambient lighting transport you straight to Madrid. Their paella is the showstopper – prepared traditionally and arriving at your table still sizzling in its pan, with perfectly toasted socarrat at the bottom that connoisseurs will appreciate.

The tapas selection strikes that ideal balance between authentic and creative. Don’t miss their gambas al ajillo, where plump shrimp swim in a garlicky olive oil that you’ll want to soak up with their house-made bread. The staff knows their stuff about Spanish wines, guiding you through regions you might never have explored otherwise.

What really sets Toledo apart is how they’ve created an atmosphere where you can have an intimate date night or bring a group of friends without feeling out of place either way. It’s not the trendiest spot in Murray Hill, and that’s precisely its charm – they’ve prioritized consistent excellence over flashiness. Visit on a weeknight for the best experience when the locals come out and you can linger over your meal without feeling rushed.