As part of our Love Where You Live series, where we shine a light on independent local businesses and the people behind them, we’re delighted to spotlight La Zenia Tapas – a much-loved restaurant bringing authentic Spanish flavours to Mapperley Top.
Behind La Zenia are Lucy and Mustafa, whose journey began nearly eight and a half years ago in Spain. What started as a holiday romance soon became something more, with Lucy relocating to Spain and spending almost six years working in hospitality alongside Mustafa. During that time, they immersed themselves in Spanish food, culture, and the traditions that inspire La Zenia’s menu today.
Their shared ambition was to open a restaurant of their own, so when they later moved to the UK, they decided to take the leap and make that dream a reality by opening La Zenia, named after the place that they met.
Watch the video:
Bringing Authentic Spanish Tapas to Nottingham
La Zenia Tapas was created to share the flavours, techniques, and passion Lucy and Mustafa developed while living and working in Spain. The menu reflects their hands-on experience in the hospitality sector, offering authentic tapas inspired by traditional Spanish cooking. Dishes are served as they’re prepared, just as you’d expect in Spain, allowing guests to enjoy fresh food as it is served to the table.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support that we have received from the local community”
From the moment La Zenia opened its doors, the response from the local community has played a huge role in its journey. Lucy and Mustafa have been supported not only by their customers, but also by the team around them, forming friendships that go far beyond the restaurant.
“We’ve put our entire heart and soul into it, and honestly, we have to pinch ourselves every day that we really went and did it”
For Lucy and Mustafa, La Zenia represents years of commitment, hard work, and belief in their shared vision. Every aspect of the restaurant reflects the care and effort they’ve poured into it, from the food and service to the relationships they’ve built along the way. It’s a place that means a lot to them, and one they’re incredibly proud to call their own.
Behind the scenes, Lucy and Mustafa are working on the next chapter of La Zenia, and they cant wait to share the next step of their vision with you all!
Ready to experience authentic Spanish tapas on Mapperley Top?
Thinking about making a move to Mapperley, and enjoying everything the local area has to offer?
From independent restaurants like La Zenia to a thriving community and fantastic local amenities, it’s easy to see why so many people love living here.
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