After decades of being painted with a British brush, Victoria, British Columbia, is recently enjoying a swath of Spanish color, via a collective of tapas restaurants in the downtown core. Yes, there have been Spanish eateries come and go, and some true gems in the downtown scene (gracias, Chorizo & Co.) but with the recent arrival of Bodega, sister restaurant to downtown’s stalwart The Tapa Bar, it feels like the dining vibe downtown is finely tuned to Spanish guitar.
Bodega is conveniently located right next to older sibling The Tapa Bar at the entrance to Trounce Alley. The warmly cozy space offers more than a dozen sherries and numerous wines by the glass, all chosen to complement the BC-meets-Spain small plates selections. Partner and General Manager Emily Henderson is a fervent fan of all things Spain, and her passion and influence fills the small restaurant (making up for the eager-while-learning staff). The comfortable spot is bar-centric, as is any decent tapas joint, making for a jovial spot to partake in after-work drinks, pre-theater plates or a leisurely virtual date night through Spain. Wines are Iberian-based, although this being the Northwest, local selections also feature. Cocktails are smartly composed and showcase sherry heavily and creatively.
Bodega’s menu highlights daily features and rotating boards, with savory delights ranging from serrano to Manchego to piquillo peppers. The daily pintxo board is always a surprise, featuring the kitchen’s choice of three different creative tapas, influenced by tradition but dictated by the seasons and local produce. Partner that with their sherry flights, and you can taste and pair your plates to three different sherries. It’s a very social way to learn, dine and enjoy the very corazon of tapas culture.
The true sign that Spain has invaded Victoria? Rumors of an upcoming Tapas Tour route between downtown Victoria’s Bodega, Chorizo & Co., Catalano and (the also new) Perro Negro are in the works. Hurras por España!
Bodega Tapas and Wine Bar || 1210 Broad St Victoria, BC || bodegabar.ca
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