This unassuming corner spot in Newark’s Ironbound district has quietly turned into a full‑blown obsession for locals and in‑the‑know travelers.
Tucked into a residential stretch of the North Ironbound, Casa d’Paco didn’t blow up overnight; it grew the old‑school way—one ecstatic tapas lover at a time.
As word spread that chef‑driven, weekly changing tapas were being crafted at a tiny neighborhood joint where regulars were treated like family, lines started forming and reservations became essential on busy nights.
You’ll often hear things about this restaurant, ranging from the “best seafood paella ever” to must‑order octopus and tapas platters, and that kind of passionate word‑of‑mouth has transformed this place from local secret to destination restaurant. 🔥
How This Newark Neighborhood Gem Became a Must‑Visit Tapas Obsession
From the outside, you’d never guess this cozy Warwick Street hangout is packing some of the most crave‑worthy Spanish tapas in town, but step inside and the packed tables, clinking glasses of sangria, and sizzling plates tell you everything you need to know. 😋🍷
Weekends turned into a scene: groups huddled around small tables, servers weaving through with sizzling pans, laughter bouncing off the walls, and hopeful walk‑ins lining up, willing to wait for a taste.
The magic is that nothing about it feels manufactured; the menu keeps evolving, the portions stay generous, and the staff treats newcomers like regulars in training, which only fuels the buzz.
Food Highlights
- Pulpo a Feira (Galician‑Style Octopus): A signature dish that stars a tender octopus draped over boiled potatoes, finished with smoked sweet pimentón and extra virgin olive oil that’s perfectly cooked, silky, and packed with smoky depth.
- Patatas Bravas with House Spicy Alioli: These crisp double‑fried potatoes smothered in house spicy alioli are comfort‑food royalty, best known for their ideal crunch and addictive kick that makes it a sharable plate that disappears the second it hits the table. 🥔🌶️
- Gambas al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp): Jumbo shrimp are sautéed in minced garlic and the restaurant’s own salsa picante, creating a rich, garlicky, chile‑kissed sauce that diners rave about mopping up with bread, which makes it a definite must‑order for first‑timers and regulars alike.🍤
- Tabla Española (Spanish Meats & Cheeses Board): A generous board loaded with serrano ham, chorizo, Spanish salchichón, Manchego, Tetilla cheese, olives, and seasonal fruit that is a perfect way to start the night, with a mix of salty, creamy, and briny bites that pair beautifully with sangria or Spanish wine. 🧀🍷
- Aguacate Relleno (Stuffed Avocado): A half avocado shell overflowing with lump crab meat, steamed rock shrimp, minced shallots and celery, egg whites, and fresh house‑made mayo, served with crostinis, offering a fresh, luxurious, and surprisingly filling experience. 🥑🦀
- Seafood Paella: Frequently praised as some of the best seafood paella in Newark, this hearty pan of saffron‑tinted rice loaded with mixed seafood is what many diners call their “must repeat” order for its generous portions and deep, slow‑built flavors. 🥘✨
Atmosphere
Casa d’Paco serves serious food in a laid‑back, intimate setting where you feel like you’ve stumbled into a neighborhood party.
The room is small and cozy, with tables close together, a lively soundtrack, and the happy hum of guests sharing tapas and stories, just like the owner describes in his heartfelt about page.
It can get loud on busy nights, but that only adds to the festive, Spanish‑tavern energy that regulars love and that keeps them booking return tables through reservation platforms.
From the warm staff to the mix of locals and savvy visitors, this place feels like an instant favorite the moment you sit down. 🎉🍷
Bottom Line
Go for unforgettable tapas, generous portions, and octopus and paella that keep fans returning.
Stay for the buzzing, cozy atmosphere, excellent sangria, and a menu that changes often enough to surprise you every time.
Perfect for date nights, small groups, or anyone eager to discover a true Newark hidden gem. 🌟
Address:
73 Warwick St, Newark, NJ 07105
📞 (862) 343-6300
🕔 Tue–Thu, 12–10 PM; Fri–Sat, 12 PM–12 AM; Sun 12 PM–9 PM (closed Mon)