Zara's Tapas Bar

It is said that the first tapa was simply a hunk of bread which was placed over the glass to keep the flies out. Hence the word ‘tapas’ was born. Tapa literally meaning ‘cover’ or ‘lid’.

In the beginning somewhere must have been the olive - plain and simple, on its own. What better accompaniment to a glass of dry fino sherry? Or perhaps some almonds; fried in olive oil, sprinkled with salt and served while they’re still hot? These are the original tapas; the simplest of foods, requiring little or no preparation.

As the tradition developed, tapas became more of an elaborate event, each region developing their own specialities. They were still 'little dishes' but the personalities of thousands of bar owners all over Spain has stamped them with the identities that they have today.

Rolling up to Bangalore's first Spanish Tapas Bar I expected to get my hands on some Manchego Cheese and Chirozo Sausage, sadly neither or these super traditional tapas grace the menu. The concept of small little tasting plates is carried through with a play on Spanish flavours, incorporating a sense of popular bar/snack foods into the realm of several tapas featured.

To start off the evening in true Espanol spirit we ordered a pitcher of My Precious, a heady fruity cocktail of mango and peach nectar mixed with a whole lotta rum! Cheers to that!

One of the more authentic tapas on offer: Gambas al Ajillo - Garlic Shrimp

Cheesy Nachos minus the usual pizazz - skip this completely!

Rather enjoyable - Champinones al ajillo - Garlic Mushrooms with a splash of Red Wine

Salad with Amul Cheese Slices - absurd to say the least
Ensalada Rusa Gambas - Russian Prawn Salad

Chicken wings in a brown, mushroom sauce and a bed of tatter mash - beats me!? But seemed to be a crowd pleaser, just when I thought I was on my way to becoming an expert on food!


Chocolate Mousse to finish off

Overall, it was a great evening out and especially easy on the wallet! The retro music was enjoyable (my mum, sister and myself love the music of the 60's thru to the 80's) and was great to be able to pace the evening sipping on sweet cocktails, chatting and nibbling. Mains are available, but after trying so many different tapas we were too full to venture there, heading straight for dessert.
On my last visit a special Spanish coffee and liqueur menu was introduced that looked very interesting and worth checking out.
One word of advice: with the curfew the place shut off the music and shows you to the door by 11.15 sharp, so aim for making an entrance at 9.30 and do book a table as it gets chaotic.

Building No. 110, Commercial Street,

Shivajinagar, Bangalore - 560008

Ph: +91 80 25595995