Why Spanish Food Is Having a Moment (and why it works so well for events, and nights in)

Why Spanish Food Is Having a Moment (and why it works so well for events, and nights in)

By Anneliese Kiely Polo, Owner of La Cala Catering

Over the last few years, I’ve noticed a real shift in how people want to eat, whether they’re planning a wedding, hosting friends, or simply looking for something better than the usual Friday night takeaway. Spanish food, with its bold flavours, relaxed sharing style and focus on quality ingredients, has never been more popular, and it’s easy to see why.

Spanish cuisine has been championed globally by chefs such as Ferran Adrià, José Andrés and Martín Berasategui, all of whom celebrate flavour, simplicity and respect for ingredients. That philosophy runs through everyday Spanish cooking and makes it perfect for both special occasions and relaxed meals at home.

Food Made for Sharing

Spanish food is naturally sociable. It’s designed to be placed in the middle of the table and enjoyed together, creating a warm, informal atmosphere that works beautifully for events of all sizes.

At La Cala Catering, this might mean Ibérico sharing boards, pintxos, or montaditos to welcome guests, followed by generous paellas cooked to be shared. It’s food that encourages conversation, movement and connection, ideal for dinner parties, large celebrations and modern, relaxed weddings.

Crowd Pleasing Dishes with Big Flavour

Our menus focus on dishes that are both delicious and practical, they travel well, hold their flavour and appeal to a wide range of tastes.

My signature pork and chorizo empanada is a firm favourite, perfect for buffets, sharing menus or finish-at-home meals. Tortilla de patatas, served with my own brava sauce, is another staple — simple, satisfying, vegetarian and always popular, whether served warm or at room temperature.

Desserts Designed for Sharing

Spanish desserts are ideal for events. Tarta de Santiago (naturally gluten-free) and Basque cheesecake offer traditional flavours without being heavy, while organic chocolate brownies, served in neat squares, are an affordable, practical option for large gatherings, and always one of the first things to go.

I also make traditional rosquillas and pestiños, adding something a little different for guests to discover.

A Flexible Alternative to Traditional Catering

Spanish food offers a fresh alternative to standard event catering, full of flavour, unfussy and generous without being heavy. For weddings and large events, it means more choice, less rigidity and a relaxed, social way of eating.

It also works brilliantly as an alternative to takeaway. Our local finish-at-home option allows you to enjoy restaurant quality, Spanish food at home, with minimal effort and no washing up!

At its heart, Spanish food is about generosity, quality and bringing people together, values that guide everything we do at La Cala Catering.

To explore our sample menus or enquire about events and local deliveries, visit www.lacalacatering.com.