Tapas di Casa
Centuries ago, drinkers in Andalusian taverns would protect their sherry from fruit flies by placing a slice of bread over the glass. When enterprising barmen started putting small servings of other food on the bread, tapas (from ‘tapar', the Spanish verb 'to cover') were born.
Fruit flies are less of a nuisance in Ireland (bar flies are a greater irritant) but tapas bars are no less popular. Here are three Village visited in Dublin.
Havana, Georges Street, Dublin 2
Havana's colourful and casual arrangement is something akin to an art college break-out room. Paintings and other paraphernalia adorn brightly painted walls in a laid-back atmosphere. Leather arm chairs accompany some tables while cushions are casually strewn around others. High stools line a bar counter at the front window where diners can sit against the backdrop of George's Street and its evening revellers.
Havana is not a gourmet experience, and the reasonable prices reflect it. The food is served very quickly; tapas are small dishes and are quickly prepared. Food is served to 11.30pm but go there early – Village suspects that some dishes are pre-prepared. The meatballs were slightly soggy and the fried potatoes a tad too crispy on our late night visit.
Portions are generous and priced €7 to €8 per dish. Paella, salsa meatballs, fried chorizo, fried potatoes, potato gratin, satay chicken skewers and omelettes are all available. Havana has a full bar licence. The most popular drinks are Sangria, Mojito (excellent) and Corona.
La Bodega, 18 Suffolk Street, Dublin 2
La Bodega is the new tapas restaurant section downstairs in Café Presse. Due to a reservation mix-up, La Bodega had 10 minutes' warning of our arrival on a Thursday evening with a group of 17. They took it in their stride and easily accommodated everyone despite the limited space. The lay-out is constricted by the outlines of the arched cellar which it was previously, but this adds to the atmosphere.
La Bodega impressed with authentic Spanish dishes. Particularly good were the pork stew, the paella with various meats and topped with mussels, and the chicken and chorizo skewers. The Spanish hostess helpfully recommended appropriate wines. Prices were affordable, around €7.50 for a small dish and €14 for large ones.
Market Bar, George's Street Arcade, Dublin 2
The restaurant at the Market Bar is segregated from the main pub area but it still forms part of the open plan and shares the convivial atmosphere of the pub. This is a popular eatery, so reserve a table or arrive early to enjoy a drink or two before a table comes available. The food is medium-priced and the selection varied: meatballs, potato croquettes, whole mackerel, chorizo, mussles, and salads. All delicious. Small portions are €6, large portions cost €9.50 and desserts are €5.50. Food is served to 9.30pm.