Urban, sophisticated, social, gastronomic - these are the words that come to mind after having lunch at Tabla, the newest addition the Union Plaza District downtown. Tabla is a Euro-Spanish tapas bar specializing in beautifully crafted plates intended to be shared and inspire camaraderie and conversation in a cozy, comfortable, and relaxed atmosphere. On our recent visit, we met with Chef and Co-Owner Norbert Portillo, who explained that the concept behind Tabla was to create a menu of tapas (small plates of food) using quality ingredients that could be shared among a group of friends. The atmosphere of the restaurant is intended to be casual and inspire kinship and conversation. Chef Portillo made several recommendations from the menu, all of which proved to be delicious and exceeded all expectations. We started with Bacon Wrapped Dates with Pecan Syrup and a Flank Steak Salad with Blue Cheese. That was followed by Grilled Asparagus with Serrano Ham and Crispy Goat Cheese and Onion Jam.
The last, andour favorite, was the Steamed Mussels in a Fennel and Chorizo Broth - we had to ask for a spoon and extra bread to get every last drop of the broth - that good! Tabla alsofeatures their signature Red or White Sangria, a great compliment to the menu of assorted hot and cold tapas. Tabla has a great concept, excellent food, and is a greatplace to “ Eat + Drink + Share”. Tabla is open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner; the kitchen is open late on Friday and Saturday. Happy hour Tuesday through Saturday from 3:00 pm to 7:00pm features $3.00 Sangria and $5.00 Tapas. Visit Tabla at www.tabla-ep.com
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