5 /5 Afshin Afshar-Ghasemlou: A couple of weeks ago, we finally visited Aioli Bodega Española in Sacramento, and it turned out to be a wonderful experience. The weather was perfect, so we grabbed a table in their relaxing backyard patio, which felt like the ideal setting for a slow evening.
We began our meal with a pitcher of sangria and two tapas: Patatas Bravas, which are crispy potatoes with just the right amount of kick, and Pinchos Morunos, spiced skewers of meat. Both were delicious. We also ordered the soup of the day, which was warm, flavorful, and gone far too quickly.
For the main course, the three of us shared a Paella Valenciana. Although it is technically meant for two, it turned out to be the perfect size for the three of us—just enough to satisfy without leaving us too full to enjoy dessert. We finished with a creamy flan, and I ended the night with a strong espresso, just how I like to cap off a good meal.
The food was excellent across the board, and the service matched it—friendly without being rushed. The entire evening had a relaxed vibe, making the experience even better.
As a little extra context, Aioli Bodega Española has been a Sacramento staple since the mid-1990s, run by Aziz Bellarbi Salah and his family. Their focus is on traditional Spanish dishes, especially tapas, paellas, and of course, sangria. It’s no wonder that the restaurant has endured for so long; it feels like a place that’s truly woven into the fabric of the neighborhood.
