Besa Bondi: Spanish Tapas, Late-Night Energy and Mediterranean Flavour Arrive in Sydney’s Iconic Beachside Suburb

Besa

Bondi has long been one of Australia’s most recognisable travel destinations, drawing visitors for its golden sands, coastal walks and vibrant dining scene. Now, a new chapter in Bondi’s culinary evolution begins with the arrival of Besa, a Spanish tapas bar set to infuse the neighbourhood with the spirited, late-night culture of Madrid.

Opening on Sunday 1 March, Besa is the latest venue from ESCA Hospitality Group, bringing bold Spanish flavours, curated wines and high-energy hospitality to the heart of Bondi.

A Taste of Madrid in Bondi

Inspired by the dynamic tapas bars of Spain’s capital, Besa channels the intimate, buzzing atmosphere of Madrid into a contemporary Australian setting. The name itself, meaning “kiss” in Spanish, reflects connection, warmth and the joy of gathering around a shared table.

For travellers exploring Sydney’s food scene, Besa offers more than a meal. It delivers a cultural immersion into Spain’s social dining traditions, where food flows, drinks are constantly refreshed and conversations stretch long into the evening.

This opening further strengthens ESCA Hospitality Group’s footprint in Sydney, following the success of Henrietta and AALIA Wine Room.

Tapas Culture Reimagined for the Coast

At its core, Besa celebrates tapas, a culinary ritual deeply woven into Spanish culture. Designed for sharing, the menu blends regional inspiration with ingredients and flavours that resonate with Bondi’s coastal lifestyle.

Besa

Head chef Alan Kropman and executive chef Ibrahim Kasif draw on experience from acclaimed Sydney kitchens to present dishes that balance tradition and modern flair. Menu highlights include blue mackerel with butter leaf and encurtidos, raw beef carpaccio with white anchovy and goats cheese anchoiade, fideuà negra of squid ink egg noodles with grilled chicken and aioli, and confit potato, onion and egg tortilla.

Desserts rotate weekly, with interpretations of Basque cheesecake, churros and flan ensuring a sweet finish reflective of Spain’s regional diversity.

For food-focused travellers searching for the best tapas in Bondi or authentic Spanish restaurants in Sydney, Besa is positioned to become a must-visit destination.

A Wine List That Travels Across Spain

Besa’s wine program mirrors the depth and diversity of Spain’s vineyards. With twenty wines available by the glass and sixty by the bottle, the list showcases a broad spectrum of Spanish regions and styles.

Beyond Spain, carefully selected Australian and New Zealand producers sit alongside bottles from France, Italy and Uruguay, creating a well-rounded offering that complements the menu while remaining true to Spanish culinary roots.

For visitors interested in Spanish wine in Sydney, Besa provides an accessible yet expressive introduction to the country’s celebrated winemaking heritage.

Cocktails Inspired by Don Quixote

Besa

Literature lovers will appreciate the creative cocktail list inspired by Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes. Each drink reflects themes and archetypes from the novel’s chapters, blending storytelling with mixology.

Signature creations include El Compañero, a vibrant mix of vodka, limoncello, suze, citrus and blood orange sorbet inspired by the loyal Sancho Panza, and El Regreso, combining mint-washed sherry, crème de menthe, plum verjus, citrus and fizz to echo Don Quixote’s reflective return home.

For tourists seeking late-night bars in Bondi with creative cocktails and DJ sets, Besa offers a dynamic alternative to traditional beachside venues.

Design That Echoes Madrid’s Underground Bars

Architect Matt Darwon has crafted an interior reminiscent of Madrid’s underground scene, layered with mid-century modern influences and subtle Spanish references. Moody red tones, spotted gum timber and perimeter banquette seating create intimacy within the 65-seat space.

A chrome-clad DJ booth anchors the room, with Spanish-influenced funk and house music playing from Friday to Sunday, reinforcing the venue’s energetic identity.

Located in The Hub alongside established Bondi favourites, Besa enhances the suburb’s reputation as one of Sydney’s premier dining precincts.

Why Besa Is a Must-Visit for Sydney Travellers

Besa

For visitors planning a trip to Sydney, Bondi Beach remains an essential stop. Now, with the arrival of Besa, travellers can pair coastal exploration with an authentic Spanish dining experience just moments from the shoreline.

Whether you are seeking the best new restaurants in Bondi, authentic Spanish tapas in Sydney, or a lively late-night dining venue near Bondi Beach, Besa delivers atmosphere, flavour and cultural storytelling in equal measure.

Besa

The Hub, Bondi, Sydney NSW
Opening Sunday 1 March
Open Friday to Sunday for lunch and Tuesday to Sunday for dinner

For reservations and more information visit: https://www.besabondi.com/

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