Patatas bravas, a Spanish comfort food

Patatas bravas is a traditional Spanish dish of fried potatoes topped with a creamy, garlicky, and spicy (by Spanish standards) sauce, usually with a strong dose of sweet or smoky paprika. It’s gaining traction on restaurant menus in the United States, particularly among independent and fine dining operators.

Also called papas bravas, this item’s popularity reflects the broader consumer appetite for global flavors and elevated comfort foods, as well as their enduring love for potatoes.

The dish’s bold flavors make it an appealing shareable option, and its versatility makes it ripe for restaurant chefs to riff and experiment.

According to market research firm Datassential, 75% of the population is familiar with patatas bravas, and 45% have tried it, with awareness highest among Asian and Hispanic consumers. Patatas bravas is found on 0.5% of U.S. restaurant menus, a 10% increase over the past four years.

Click through the gallery above to learn more about patatas bravas and see how one restaurant in Wisconsin is using it on the menu.