LA Paella

What is LA Paella? Located at 1146 Queen Street East in Leslieville, La Paella evolved from a boutique Spanish catering operation into one of the city’s most authentic Iberian dining rooms. The cozy, low-lit space features white-washed brick walls, imported Spanish tile work, and a bustling open kitchen where a dedicated paellero tends simmering pans. With only seven tables indoors, eight front-row bar stools, and a covered garden patio, the dining room feels intimate, focused, and thoroughly neighbourhood-driven.

LA Paella Menu & What to Order Every paella is made to order using imported Spanish La Fallera rice, simmered in rich house-made broth until the grains reach an al dente bite with a deeply caramelized socarrat crust. The Paella de Mariscos—loaded with tiger shrimp, calamari, haddock, clams, and mussels—and the ink-stained Paella Negra are standouts, while the Paella Valenciana stays true to heritage with chicken, rabbit, and butter beans. Round out the 30-minute rice wait with sizzling gambas al ajillo, braised beef-stuffed piquillo peppers, and house-made lamb croquetas paired with a pitcher of red sangria or a crisp glass of Albariño.

Know Before You Go Reservations must be made by phone after 5:00 p.m. as the restaurant does not handle bookings online or over email, and weekend tables routinely book out a week in advance. Walk-ins are best accommodated at the eight bar seats or out on the weather-dependent patio, which operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The restaurant is easily reached via the 501 Queen streetcar and operates for evening dinner service Tuesday through Sunday.