Tapa, the old Boston Internet celebrity, sorry I'm late

🍷 Barcelona Wine Bar: Boston’s Beloved Spanish Spot—Worth the Hype, Even After All These Years I’ve heard about Barcelona Wine Bar since my first month in Boston—my French boss (who knows good food) raved about it. Three years later, I finally tried it, and now I get the fuss. This “old 网红 (internet favorite)” earns its reputation with solid Spanish tapas, cozy vibes, and dishes that feel both classic and satisfying. 🌟 The Must-Orders Grilled Pulpo (Octopus): 🐙 We ordered two plates—that’s how good it is. Tender, charred octopus with a slight crunch, served over potatoes and drizzled with spicy sauce. It’s smoky, briny, and addictive—don’t skip it. Potato Tortilla: 🥔 A Spanish omelet reimagined as a layered “cake”—soft potato, caramelized onion, and a fluffy texture that tastes like “grandma’s potato pancake.” Pair it with sour cream for a creamy, savory kick. Simple, but perfect. Eggplant Caponata: 🍆 Think “roasted eggplant spread” with a hint of sweetness (thanks to vinegar and raisins). Slather it on crusty bread—rich, tangy, and comfortingly homey. Cheese & Charcuterie Board: 🧀 $19.5 gets you 3 choices (mix of cheeses and cured meats). The Jamón Serrano is a safe, delicious pick—salty, melt-in-your-mouth good. Stick to creamy, mild cheeses if you’re not into strong flavors (goat cheese is bold, so proceed with caution). 😊 Solid, but Not Standout Beef Tartare: 🥩 Better than the version I had in Florence. It uses chopped (not minced) beef, so you get more texture. It’s fresh and zesty, but skip it if raw meat isn’t your thing. Lamb Belly: 🍖 Fatty, tender, and mild (no gaminess). Good, but not as memorable as the octopus or tortilla. Seared Scallops: 🦪 Cooked well—seared outside, tender inside—but lack that “wow” factor. Fine as a filler, but not essential. 😐 The “Meh” Paella Verduras: 🥘 A vegetable paella that’s underwhelming. It’s hearty (a full size feeds 5, half is enough for 2-3) but lacks the crispy socarrat (bottom crust) or bold saffron flavor that makes great paella. Order it to share if you’re hungry, but don’t come for this alone. ✨ Why It’s a Classic Vibe: Warm, bustling, and perfect for groups—tapas-style sharing keeps the meal lively. Consistency: They nail the staples (octopus, tortilla) and offer enough variety to please everyone. Budget Score: 4/5. Tapas range from $10-$20, paella is pricier but shareable—fair for the quality. Barcelona Wine Bar lives up to its hype. Whether you’re a tapas newbie or a Spanish food fan, it’s a reliable, delicious pick for a night out. 📍 Barcelona Wine Bar 525 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116 #BostonTapas #SpanishFood #SouthEndEats