Bodega on Main — Restaurant in Vancouver

We went everywhere, searching for a venue for my 50th birthday as I really wanted the evening to be a dream come true. So, when I stumbled onto Hector and La Bodega, I had high expectations. Well, it’s weeks after my party and everyone is still talking about it, and I can’t thank Hector and the staff enough!

So, let’s start with the physical space downstairs. The room is fully equipped with a banquet of seating and tables, three washrooms, bar, and DJ booth. We filled it to maximum capacity, and it was cozy but comfortable. I met briefly with Hector a month before the event and went over the details, he remembered everything, and the evening couldn’t have gone more smoothly. The event was appropriately staffed, and everyone was so attentive and responsive to all guest needs.

As people arrived downstairs, there was someone handing out the welcome drinks and the bar top was filled with delicious charcuterie boards. Just like that, the staff helped set the tone for the night. When it was time for supper, we all sat down for an alla famiglia style meal. My friends were so impressed with the starters…but when the entrées came out, that was the pièce de resistance! The large platters of lamb pops and seafood paella not only a sight to behold, but each bite was also perfectly seasoned and cooked.

After dinner, I don’t know how they did it, but the large dinner tables were discreetly removed and the space turned into a dance floor. Hector worked with our DJ and the house lights dimmed to set the mood for a great evening of dancing fun. From beginning to end, the bartenders worked hard and were very knowledgeable. They went above and beyond to prepare amazing cocktails that friends are still talking about now. Hector timed the birthday cake and churros with chocolate to perfection. There is nothing better than warm churros with chocolate dip after hours of dancing and drinking.

I had planned for this milestone birthday for a long time. Truthfully, whenever you put so much pressure onto one event, it feels heavy. Hector seemed to understand this, he was an amazing help and support in the weeks leading up to the event and on the night itself. I am so grateful for the staff who stepped up and for Hector who led the organization of the evening in such a caring, meticulous and professional way. La Bodega, with Hector in charge, is definitely a five-star all...

Just went tonight to apparently the best Spanish restaurant in Vancouver. The food is 5/5. Great job to the chefs! We ordered the tabla de ibericos which is a few slices of meat. Pricy I gotta say. Then, the mejillones (mussels), lengua estofada (beef tongue), and mix paella. All the food was great. Again, great job chefs and all kitchen staff.

Why am I giving only 3 stars? If you make a reservation, meaning you care to get a table because you really want to dine in there, please at least give us a smile or a welcoming when we step in. Don't just stand there and not even say: welcome or hi, do you have a reso? ...nothing. Just standing there. Our table was actually great! It was right in the middle of the restaurant and very spacious. Thank you for that! Our waitress or should I say all of them tonight. Super duper quite. I can't imagine a Spanish or South, Latin or Mexican restaurant where it's not vivid, or in other words loud. I couldn't hear anything from my waitress when I was ordering. Food came out really quick! So once again, great job kitchen staff! However, we were at the centre of the restaurant. Never did the waitress came to refill water, ask how was the food, and it was always me lifting up my hand to ask for her. This is clearly a management issue. Either hired the wrong staff or not enough training. Staff should be checking tables, making sure there's enough water, asking how's the food, etc. I think I look at the waitress more than I looked at my wife tonight. Finally, we left and when walking towards the exit, no bye, no good night, no thank you. I don't care how busy you are. Other restaurants are way busier and they still take attention to the details. I don't like to be negative; however, the impression on the service was not at the level expected. The food was incredibly delicious. These are the things tourists will remember when they come to Vancouver. Just like when I go to Portland and go to this random Peruvian restaurant and the service is so freaking amazing and food as well. Makes me want to go back again! Bodega on Main...not so sure. I rather ask for Bodega for take out if the service...

I dined at the restaurant after visiting Science World (which was a couple of blocks away). My son had recommended this place. I have drove by many times but never tried it. Main Street at this end of town is decent (some cracked sidewalks) with some sketchy buildings but otherwise safe due to surrounding condos, skytrain, Pacific Central Station (bus & train), and Science World. I was more than pleasantly surprised once I opened the door and stepped into another world of old world charm. The restaurant had high ceilings (20 ft) and walls decorated with lots of old black & white photos of Spanish bull fighters, other famous Spanish persons and art. I felt totally at ease in the atmosphere. We didn't have a reservation, and this was around 1:10 pm on a Sunday. The place was almost full, however, they found us a table for 4. The host greeted us within a few seconds of entering. Waitress gave us a bit of time to decide, and once we ordered, the food came at a reasonable time (my guess 15 minutes?)

There is a sense of spaciousness, the seats along the wall are cushioned and wood chairs opposite along the aisles. Behind the bench seating were shelves (handy for putting your purses etc.)

There is an open kitchen towards the left hand corner of restaurant which adds to the charm (I always like to see the chefs and those behind the scenes).

Food -- We ordered a mix of food, including Paella Negra for 2 ($44) Morcilla ($16) , Heuvos Flamenco ($16) All were very reasonably priced and delicious. All dishes were more than ample. We had to get a doggy bag for the Paella Negra. Because we took the skytrain, we didn't have to deal with parking. I would highly recommend you try this place. (there are 3 individual separate washrooms, very spacious, so will be wheel chair friendly) The front door is also level with street so easy access). ps. if your are ordering the Paella Negra (which has squid black ink), some of the ink may get in between your teeth (or lips), so make sure you drink water to rinse your teeth & wipe your lips throughout your meal. It does go away but probably not an item to try if you are on a...