Tapaste, a Spanish cafe in the city, has reopened at Hindustan Park and exudes the vibes of a vintage Spanish eatery. Co-owner Antonio Costa Bolufer had come to Calcutta from Spain in 2009 and gradually fell in love with the city, its people and the culture. The decor of Tapaste is an eclectic mix of pastel and bright colours with wooden furniture to vibe with the Spanish theme. Spread over 1,900sq ft, it is a spacious 60-seater cafe.
Tapaste serves healthy artisanal Spanish food with a variety of meats and seafood. Only natural ingredients without any artificial preservatives are used as Spanish food is all about fresh ingredients. The recipes on the menu are curated by the owners. Antonio brings special spices from his hometown in Spain when he visits Calcutta once in every two months, just to add a touch of authenticity to the food. The cafe has some signature dishes to offer like Gazpacho, Empanadilla, Albondigas, Paella, Torrijas, Torta de Sandiago, Churros and many more, representing all the regions of Spain.
(Clockwise) Spain’s national dish Paella, is a rice preparation originally from Valencia. This is Tapaste’s seafood paella made of octopus, prawns and clams and served with flavourful rice. Rs 818; Churros is a famous Spanish dessert which is choux pastry dough piped into hot oil until golden and crispy and served with chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream. Rs 245; Sweet Blue Sky is a stimulating hot mocktail made with honey, lemon juice and blue pea tea. Rs 205; Chicken Empanadas have their origins in Galicia (Spain) and are steamy pillows made with soft pastry dough and filled with tomato, onion, chicken, bell-pepper and served with salsa. Rs 365
What: Tapaste
Where: 52D, Hindustan Park, Gariahat
Timings: Noon- 11 pm
Meal for two: Rs 800-plus
Pictures: B Halder