about us
A Taste of Spain in the Heart of Berkeley
Welcome to La Marcha Tapas Bar, a vibrant Spanish dining experience from Gran Via Restaurant Group. Inspired by the lively tapas bars of Spain, La Marcha brings people together over bold flavors, handcrafted cocktails, and the communal spirit of Spanish dining.
"La Marcha" refers to the cherished Spanish tradition of late-night bar-hopping, where friends share small plates, wine, and conversation. We bring that experience to Berkeley— where every bite tells a story.
Meet the Chefs Behind La Marcha Chef Sergio Monleón A Bay Area native with deep Spanish roots, Sergio's passion for food began at family gatherings, where he learned the art of paella from his grandmother. Trained in both Spain and the U.S., he specializes in authentic Spanish tapas and paella, ensuring that every dish at La Marcha balances tradition and innovation. Chef Emily Sarlatte With a background in nutrition and culinary arts, Emily is passionate about sourcing high-quality, sustainable ingredients that bring Spanish cuisine to life. Her attention to detail and love for bold, yet balanced flavors make La Marcha’s dishes both soulful and refined.
A Recognized Destination for Spanish Cuisine
La Marcha Tapas Bar has earned its place among the Top 5 Spanish Restaurants in the Bay Area, as recognized by the Michelin Guide, San Francisco Chronicle, Oakland Tribune, and CBS News. Its dedication to traditional flavors and expertly crafted dishes has led to multiple Best of the Bay awards from East Bay Express and SF Magazine, as well as Diners’ Choice Awards from OpenTable every year.
Legendary food critic Michael Bauer of the San Francisco Chronicle praised La Marcha’s signature dish, calling it "paella, perfected." His review cemented its reputation as a must-visit destination for authentic Spanish flavors.
La Marcha has also gained national recognition, with ESPN+ naming it one of Berkeley's top dining destinations 3-Day Weekend. It has been featured on Check, Please!, KTVU Fox News, California Bountiful, and other major media outlets.
Our Commitment to Authenticity & Sustainability
At La Marcha, authenticity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a promise. We are honored to be recognized by Restaurants from Spain, a prestigious designation awarded by the Spanish government to establishments that faithfully represent Spanish gastronomy worldwide.
But our commitment goes beyond tradition—it’s also about responsibility. We believe great food starts with exceptional ingredients, which is why we source from local farms, sustainable seafood purveyors, and trusted Spanish producers. From the Bomba rice in our paellas to seasonal produce from nearby growers, every ingredient is carefully chosen to ensure the highest quality while supporting sustainable practices.
Whether you’re savoring a glass of sherry at the bar, sharing tapas with friends, or diving into a steaming pan of paella, every bite reflects our passion for Spain’s culinary heritage. Join us at La Marcha and experience it for yourself.
