Sol Tapas in Darlington

Well where to start.. Confirmed booking made earlier in the week for a couple to have a relaxing Saturday night meal. On arrival at the restaurant we were unable to open the door, looked closer and the lights were out and the blinds closed. No contact from the restaurant to let us know they were closed, nor a reply to my subsequent email asking what had happened. Let alone an apology... Luckily we were able to go to the Tapas Bar on Bondgate to be greeted by friendly staff who managed to find a table for us in short order and we were served excellent food. So for anyone considering Sol Tapas - give it a miss and go to the Tapas Bar instead!

Recently booked the private dining room for a family meal after my Mother’s funeral. We ordered the set Tapas menu at £25 per head. Initially we were worried there wouldn’t be enough food so we added some bread baskets on - that was a big mistake - there was so much food! We were all stuffed and then they brought out further dishes of paella! We couldn’t fit it all in! The slow braised beef in Rioja and the Chicken Diane were particularly popular dishes. The croquettes of the day were sublime and properly cooked with béchamel rather than mashed potato. They even offered to wrap it all up for us to take home. I’d also recommend their house Tempranillo, really reasonably priced for a restaurant and delicious! Service was polite and professional and appropriately paced. Really thankful to the team for making our family meal so lovely on such an important day.

We went a few nights ago and the menu is amazing, I would definitely recommend the beef in gravy

we had a delicious meal here last night, couldn’t fault the food or service , we were well looked after and given great recommendations, the chorizo started was the best i’ve had and the braised beef in red wine was the best meal my husbands had in years! Can’t wait to return, a hidden gem !

The usual warm welcome. The food is superb! We had charcuterie and chose our tapas dishes to accompany it. Very tasty and all well cooked. The Rioja is always excellent. The staff are so friendly and helpful. Thoroughly enjoyed our visit and would highly recommend

Friendly staff. Good food. Good portions too.

Food devious, hot, extremely tasty. Alcohol very good. Service cheery, professionally brilliant. Absolutely the best tapas we have tasted in the North of England. Thank you.x

Always amazing food & service. Food - plenty to choose from & caters for all. Fantastic 5 star restaurant - we will be back again

Lovley food n lovley time for my dads 80th

Visited with three friends. The fillet steak was on offer. It was exceptional. Salad and fries were perfect. Topped with a great selection of wine and cocktails. Zica was the perfect host. Couldn’t be faulted. Big fat 10/10.

Absolutely 💯 Food so amazing Staff so friendly They always recommended us the best food to eat and talk about ingredients everything here so fresh 100% recommendations You never be disappointed with anything in here ❤️❤️ Definitely go back again and again

Best food in town will defo go again the staff are very friendly lovely service from all had a really good nite with family

I’m not sure where to start with this. I’ve been here a couple of times in the past so thought nothing of booking it for a Christmas meal. There seemed to be some confusion when we arrived with a member of staff saying something about putting tables together (downstairs) which was strange as we’d booked a table. Then someone came to direct us to a table upstairs. It was toasty warm when arrived and I would recommend if this is the case when you visit that you don’t do anything silly like taking your coat or jumper off as later on ALL the heating will go off. The waitress seemed to have amnesia and completely forgot one of the drinks orders. When serving another table she said “I’ll write it down” as though this was a revolutionary idea. The lady delivering the food looked like a she wasn’t quite there and she seemed to have real difficulty holding the plates and setting them down. This confused me as it seemed to be a core part of her job. The food was a mixed bag. Some of the Tapas was very good and part of our party was very happy. Unfortunately one of the vegetarian dishes was so salty that two of our party couldn’t eat it. Whilst they were offered an alternative they’d already had some Tapas so fortunately were full enough. I mention this because the table behind us had also had problems and were given some free drinks to make up for it. It was they who first complained about it being cold and that the heating had gone off. To be clear it wasn’t that the heating had simply gone off rather the sockets which they were plugged into had been turned off. There was apparently no way to turn it on again. This happened relatively early in the evening and it seemed bizarre as presumably providing some heat when the weather is cold would encourage people to stay and perhaps order more drinks. I don’t understand their business plan. The other table opted to go downstairs but we were made of sterner stuff and stayed upstairs. I liked the fact that they had a set menu as well as Tapas and you could mix and match the two however I felt it was apparent that they’re not getting the basics right. When the Tapas arrived they came very quickly to ask about the next course yet when we ordered drinks the order was completely forgotten and we had to remind the waitress that we had ordered them with her. Anywhere else you dine out seems to know the order of things so not sure why it was beyond them to be on hand but not intrusive like everywhere else manages. Overall it’s a shame as this is in a great location and I’ve not been disappointed in the past. I see lots of positive reviews but none seem to be recent so I don’t know if this place has changed hands or is staff have changed. As I say it really is a shame as it could be great, as it was on previous visits. A good reputation is easily lost so they need to understand what’s going wrong and act to improve on it.

Fab tapas friendly staff good value

Food Absolutely so amazing Never been disappointed it . Seafood paella is the best my daughter loves it . Dessert was so gorgeous Highly recommend . Staff so friendly . We definitely go back there again and again

Absolutely fabulous restaurant. Service second to none. The food was amazing. We had tapas dishes which were all delicious.

Eight of us booked for a family catch up and we all had a great evening. We had the specials menu and were spoilt for choice with all the different dishes to choose from. I chose the Lebanese Chicken which was delish followed by my favourite Eton Mess. Everybody seemed to choose something different two of the party had the mussels as a starter and throughly enjoyed them. Everybody was in agreement that they enjoyed the quality and taste of the food. The two ladies who were serving tables were really friendly and although short staffed still managed to keep us and other tables served with food and drinks. The restaurant has a lovely atmosphere and is ideal for a catch up as you are not shouting to make yourself heard as in some other restaurants. This represented great value for money as the bill for two of us was less than £50 for two two course meals and drinks. We will be back.

Great food and very friendly service! Definitely worth a visit!

We had a really good time trying lots of dishes and we got a little more than was reccomended by service staff. The food was cooked very well and flavoured thoughtfully. Selection of beer and cocktails are both reasonably priced and well made. We went to give this place a go and would love to come back, so much so that we can reccomend this restaraunt to anyone feeling adventurous or like they fancy small plates.

Very good food. Every dish was liked by all of us. 3 dishes is good enough to get full.

Food amazing really enjoyed Chicken chorizo especially JUST WOULDN'T LEAVE A TIP AGAIN STAFF DEFINITELY DONT RECEIVE IT

First time at Sol Tapas and we thoroughly enjoyed it.The food was delicious and good portion sizes,staff were all lovely and very informative re allergies and choices etc.We will definately visit again Thankyou.

Great food, large portions, lovely place

Fabulous meal at Sol Tapas again last night, the freshest tastiest dishes, warm attentive staff and sensible prices, what's not to like, well done guys . . . ¡Muchos graçias!

Lovely food. I love the freedom to choose small portions of an assortment of foods. The mussels were to die for. Lovely background music and attentive staff. Definitely top of my list of favourites. My daughter is relocating here in July and I am bringing her here asap. She will adore this venue, same as me.

Food want too bad, other than the starters were warm at best. Other than that it was an unorganized shambles

A group of 6 of ate here before a trip to the theatre. We all had 3 courses from a special £20 menu. I had calamari, creamy cajun chicken with chunky chips and salad followed by Eton mess - it was absolutely delicious 😋 The staff were fab and the owner very friendly and chatty. Thank you for a fantastic meal

Wowwwwww food absolutely amazing and great service , Highly recommended Can’t wait to go back there again 10/10 Superb ❤️❤️

Great food very enjoyable,a couple of birthday parties in so lively.Staff were helpful and friendly.

Fantastic food, service and just overall vibe from this lovely little restaurant. Will definately be returning

New years Eve 2022 Wasn’t happy as we got there . As 2 couples were offered a table before me and my partner. Not sure it was racism ?? Than I hear a waitress being rude to a young girl waitress , when it was clearly her fault . Not the young girls fault at all . Food was ok but not the cocktails . Need experience ! Won’t go again sorry 😢

This is our go to when we want a great meal with excellent, friendly service. We have been three times and never disappointed, forget the rest, try the best. 🙂

Food was amazing and service was great, Alex did an amazing job as our waitress. We will definitely be returning.

Food was excellent and the waitress was very entertaining!! The prawn and chicken tapas was especially amazing and so was the Eton Mess and Sticky Toffee pudding! Definitely worth a visit when you are in town.

Lovely family meal . Catered for everyone's taste . Would definitely book again.

My eldest daughter booked a table for myself and 4 daughters. We were supposed to be dining at 6pm, 13/12/22. Due to unforseen circumstances we had to cancel. This was done 24hrs prior. Whoever took the call asked how many people were coming. Didn't ask for a name or time, said, You could have given more notice, Slammed the phone down. Great customer relations.. Ohh that's right..hasn't got any ! Ignorant man.

Nice food & atmosphere.Pleasant & helpful staff. Wine overpriced.

Me and my friends went there last night we had a great time eating delicious food at your restaurant .The service were so nice so friendly .The atmosphere was awesome and I definitely liked that you have a very modern style. Every food and drink on your menu taste d great 💯

Lovely food our favourite restaurant 😋

This was simply the best Tapas visited in our local area, service, ambience and food deeeelicious. We ordered way too much as everything sounded superb and it really was. The beer and the wine suggested really was divine. Thank you for a relaxed, enjoyable evening, we will definitely be back.

Went out with my partner here for tapas. We got several dishes, each of which was absolutely phenomenonal! Special shout out to the lamb flat bread, tzatziki and the meatballs. The service was excellent and the prices for food was proportionate to the quality of food served and the level of service. I would highly recommend this place if you're in the darlington area. We will definitely be back and can't wait to try some more of the dishes on offer.

Just fantastic, thank you. Booking experience is so easy. Welcome is warm. Boog had the mushrooms and I had the mussels. Delicious. Then Lebanese chicken and I had chicken and chorizo paella. Both absolutely fantastic. I like paella with chorizo and mussels, so asked if that could be created next time? No problem! Fantastic, here we come. Thank you so much.

I can confidently say Sol Tapas is the best restaurant in town, there is nowhere else that would give you the amazing service, outstanding quality of food and the personal Service that you get there !! From the minute we arrived nothing was too much trouble, the kids were looked after so well by Zika, Aisha and the team which meant the adults could sit back and enjoy the most exquisite tapas, the paella is to die for along with dozen of other flavoursome and plentiful dishes includes, hummus and flatbread, calamari and aioli, chicken and chorizo, garlic mushrooms and lots more, every dish was awesome !! Never change Sol Tapas, what you do is just perfect and we will keep coming back !! Oh and a little bit of advice for anyone looking to go to Sol Tapas- you must have a glass of Sangria, it makes you feel and tastes like you are on holiday !!

All of the food was amazing and plenty of choice. Lovely atmosphere and staff were really friendly and accommodating. Quick service too.

Went here for a meal with work in a group of over 20. We had the upstairs room just for our party. The food was lovely and plenty of choices and the staff were a credit really helpful and attentive . Would recommend and would return.

For our money this restaurant is lovely. Great tapas choice on the menu. Service is professional and the atmosphere is good. Food is so tasty and more than reasonably priced. We just love it.

We are regular visitors to Sol, the food is amazing and all the staff are great. There’s a great choice to choose from and it’s a little more of an occasion than some other nearby restaurants. Well worth a trip, the wine choice is also excellent.

Outstanding meal and service nothing too much trouble Paella amazing

Went for the teatime special. Had the mussels and then Lebanese chicken. Food was delicious and the service from the two girls was exemplary. Really enjoyed the experience. Thank you.

The Tapas were excellent; especially the chorizo in cider, the Rioja beef, and the croquettes. Lovely friendly staff.

I'm in food heaven when I go here! Food is absolutely delicious and there is plenty of choice. I like the relaxed atmosphere and the staff are very friendly.

Good food and great service as usual.

Many Thanks to everyone at Sol Tapas we went recently for my wife's 70th Birthday our party was 18 people we were very well looked after nothing was a problem many thanks to Zika and his team

Absolutely top quality food, was pleasantly surprised. The lighting and atmosphere was ambient and cosy, we asked for the temperature to be adjusted and our request was answered to. Had a wide selection of tapas dishes and enjoyed every single one. Brilliant.

Great food brilliant service and excellent value must return soon

So so nice, our waitress (long brown hair) was perfect and the food was nicer than any other tapas we’ve tried in Darlington.

Four of us dined at Sol Tapas this evening and had a great time. The food was amazing and so tasty. The owner answered any questions we had and also gave us an insight to his food and wine. Definitely worth a visit, we will certainly be going back.

Really great place and the food is really good with nice flavours. Great Spanish food experience

We regularly visit Sol Tapas, the food is always served piping hot to your table, always cooked fresh and is always delicious. Zika and his team are first class, the service is second to none. I would highly recommend Sol Tapas to anyone. We had...

Visited here for tapas and it was Food heaven. Everything was amazing. The Service, Food, atmosphere and staff. Highly recommend. So lucky to have this fabulous restaurant in Darlington.

The staff were so lovely, but the food wasn’t great. The food came out within minutes of ordering, which makes me think that the dishes are likely cooked earlier and microwaved when ordered. Because of this most of the dishes were overcooked.

This was our first visit to the Sol Tapas and we were delighted with the experience. We were greeted like long lost friends and immediately felt at home. The service was first class and the choice and quality of the Tapas matched the service. Darlington...

Had our works Christmas party here. The food was brilliant and staff were excellent.

We received a vet warm welcome from the staff and given menus and a note pad and pen to make notes of who wanted what treats to eat, the drinks orders were placed and the owner, Zika, suggested we upgraded our wine, this turned out...

We have eaten at Sol Tapas a few times in small groups and always had delicious food so when we decided to have a large family meal it was the obvious choice. Thank you so much for looking after all 16 of us on our...

First time we have visited and won’t be the last. Booked a table as was a Friday Night and arrived at 5pm. Amazing staff gave us full overview of food and drink so early Tea menu it was for us all. Drinks arrived in timely...

We had starters of Mussels in white wine sauce and Chorizo in Cider sauce. They were both plentiful and cooked well. The mussels were large and ww sauce was very nice. There was plenty of chorizo in my partner's starter and the creamy cider sauce...

Our local restaurant and we love going there always first class

Fabulous food, very generous portion size, we couldn't eat all of our selection which was a shame. Staff were friendly and accommodating. Great value too.

Friendly staff and lovely food. The paella tasted authentic and serving sizes were good for tapas. The restaurant is laid-back and although small not too loud.

Very attentive staff, exceptional food, what more can you want. Five stars. Well deserved. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Keep up the great work.

Food is amazing here. Garlic prawns are to die for. Waitress Fiona is luvly & nothing to much bother even though it was busy.

Nice place, kind waitress, good food, the air conditioning wasn't on, but asked them to open the door because it was hot and they have done it. The only thing was missing the Spanish music and some Spanish staff could take the place more authentic.

Great food. Lovely ambiance and atmosphere. Staff efficient, friendly and attentive. Try it . You will love it.

Excellent all round. Professional but friendly service, fantastic food, great ambiance. We had a lovely meal. First time of visiting but won’t be the last.

Excellent food, friendly helpful staff, would visit again

Lovely atmosphere lovely staff and nice food

Loved it. Staff were friendly and couldn't do enough for us. I'll definitely visit again

Lovely food cooked well and served with a smile. Well worth a visit.

Man from down south away on business, looked for somewhere to eat and found this little gem of a place, great food, excellent service, the portions would of fed 2 of me, very impressed.

Excellent food and the minor issues resolved quickly and privately thank you for a great time 😀

Good service, good food! Staff were attentive & food arrived fast & hot plus it tasted delicious! Will definitely be back! 😁

Great food great service. Food arrived very quickly and was all piping hot. Everything we ordered was tasty. Staff were very pleasant and friendly. Would really recommend.

Very good value and quick service.

Food was good but service poor. Struggled to get waitress attention and they twice went away before we finished ordering!

Superb quality food and service. Would highly recommend

Best spanish paella in the North East guaranteed. Every dish I've had from hear has been unreal to be fair.

Due to the Covid lockdown we ordered a tapas for collection on Sunday and as always the food was fab. I can't praise this restaurant highly enough. We ordered 10 tapas dishes and the portion sizes were incredible. We simply couldn't eat it all so...

2nd time in 2 weeks that we’ve had a delivery from here and Wow. Excellent value for money, very tasty food and only 25 minutes delivery time. Cannot fault the food, staff or delivery. Highly recommended

Due to our Christmas party being cancelled this year we decided to order food to us. After having our Christmas in sol tapas last year we decided to go back but this time for a takeaway due to tier 3. There service as always was...

We had takeaway tapas from Sol and everything was so gorgeous, piping hot, plenty of it and great value for money. Lovely staff, working in very hard times. We will be back for more.

Had the best take away from Sol Tapas , piping hot all served in separate cartons highly recommended ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ordered : Deep Fried Black Pudding in Batter with mashed potato, vegetables, in a red wine jus Deep Fried Calamari served with a dressed salad and aioli dip Pan Fried Lamb’s Liver with onion gravy served with creamed potatoes and vegetables Char Grilled Lebanese Chicken served with hummus, flat bread, dressed salad and potato tagine Crispy Chicken Goujons Deep fried chicken strips in breadcrumbs served with aiolisalad , homemade chips , garlic dip etcTotal £29.85 bargain for three people, And enough left for at least 1 meal thank you Sol Tapas Spanish restaurant

Went for the first time just before lockdown 2 for the other half’s birthday, food was amazing, will definitely be back.

We took advantage of the two course early bird offer, not expecting it to be available for delivery, however it was and it turned out to be as delicious as if it was served in the restaurant. Portion sizes also, were very generous. Definitely recommended, and a credit to their versatility during the Covid crisis.

Ordered a take away delivery 9 dishes, food arrived in under 20 minutes piping hot. Superb quality and value.

Excellent atmosphere and friendly service. The food was amazing. I had the 7 hour braised beef in Rioja, which melted in my mouth, and my fiancée had the chilli prawns. The homemade breads were delicious too. So many more dishes to try and we can’t wait to go back. A real gem

Nice place to have a casual dinner.

Had good hot and plentiful food celebrating my birthday. Decent wine and pleasant staff. However, picked up on the vibe that once we'd finished our meal, we were expected to vacate the table even though we hadn't finished our wine. Considering everything is fully controlled due to current covid rules therefore no queues clamouring to be in without booking, it's a dropped a point for that I'm afraid, very naughty.

The food was good but the service left a lot to be desired. Complete disregard for Covid transmission, no masks or gloves worn by staff. They let people in before the wedding party had left. Never saw any table disinfected when new people were let in. They even managed to miss off one of the pre-ordered meals. Overall a pretty poor show. So much for it being the best day of their lives.Won't be back!!!

Reasonably priced and lovely food, service great too!