La Nacional-Centro Español

La Nacional-Centro Español, founded in New York in 1868 as The Spanish Benevolent Society, is today the oldest Spanish institution in the United States. It has a proud history of providing support to countless Spaniards who migrated to New York City and nearby New Jersey. The association had fallen on hard times in recent years and several members, led by Roberto Sanfiz, volunteered their time and talents to restore the building and revitalize the Society. They are hopeful about their plans to turn La Nacional into a flourishing center for Iberian arts, gastronomy and culture.

The group has scheduled book and poetry readings, film festivals, cycling and soccer programs and free Spanish language classes, and they’re even talking about a culinary institute.

Situated in an old brownstone at 239 West 14th Street, between 7th and 8th Avenues, La Nacional is easy to miss, unless you’re looking for it. There’s no advertising, other than a small wooden plaque, to draw you into the charming, ground floor La Nacional Restaurant that’s open to the public. Beyond the restaurant is an unassuming bar and party room where club members meet to socialize and watch their favorite soccer games. Upstairs there’s a salon where you can enjoy a variety of events and even take flamenco and tango classes. Many of these events are either free or discounted to members.

Members also receive discounts at the quaint and popular La Nacional Restaurant. Explore membership at this unique club by contacting Roberto Sanfiz at centroespanolnyc@yahoo.com and enjoy the many privileges this dynamic group offers.