8 Traditional Tapas Dishes You Absolutely Have to Try at Rocksalt Café in Brighton

 

Looking to spice up your next evening out with flavour-packed bites and a laid-back vibe? Whether you're planning a relaxed dinner or catching up with friends over drinks, nothing beats tapas food—small plates with big personality. And when it comes to tapas done right in Brighton, Rocksalt Café is a local favourite that hits the sweet spot between tradition and creativity.

To make things even better, their happy hour deals mean you can sip and snack without breaking the bank. Here’s a list of 8 traditional tapas dishes at Rocksalt Café that you simply must try:

1. Patatas Bravas

The ultimate Spanish comfort food. These crispy potatoes are served with a punchy tomato sauce and creamy aioli—simple, satisfying, and always the first plate to disappear.

2. Gambas al Ajillo (Garlic Prawns)

Juicy prawns sizzled in garlic, olive oil, and a touch of chilli. They arrive still bubbling in their terracotta dish and pair perfectly with a chilled glass of white wine during happy hour.

3. Tortilla Española (Spanish Omelette)

A classic done to perfection. Made with layers of slow-cooked potatoes and onions, this thick, golden omelette is soft on the inside and firm on the outside—ideal for a light start to your tapas trail.

4. Chorizo al Vino Tinto

Sliced chorizo simmered in red wine, served warm and smoky with bold flavours that linger long after the last bite. A standout dish for meat lovers.

5. Pan con Tomate

This rustic Catalan dish is deceptively simple: fresh tomato, garlic, and olive oil spread over toasted sourdough. It’s the kind of tapas food that turns minimal ingredients into magic.

6. Albondigas (Spanish Meatballs)

Tender, juicy meatballs drenched in a rich tomato and herb sauce. These hearty bites are comfort food in miniature form and taste even better when shared over Rocksalt’s happy hour cocktails.

7. Calamares a la Romana

Crispy golden squid rings with a lemon wedge and house-made aioli. Light, crunchy, and always a crowd-pleaser, these are a seafood must-try at Rocksalt.

8. Aceitunas Marinadas (Marinated Olives)

No tapas spread is complete without olives. Rocksalt offers a blend of marinated olives bursting with herbs, garlic, and citrus—a perfect nibble to pair with your favourite drink.

Bonus: Pair It with Happy Hour 🍹

Rocksalt Café in Brighton doesn’t just serve incredible tapas food—they also know how to make evenings feel extra special with their daily happy hour specials. From handcrafted cocktails to house wines and beers, there’s no better way to toast to good company and even better food.

Final Bite:

Whether you’re a longtime tapas lover or new to the scene, Rocksalt Café’s menu is a delicious journey through Spanish tradition with a Melbourne twist. Grab your mates, hit happy hour, and work your way through these 8 mouthwatering dishes—you’ll be planning your next visit before the plates are cleared.