Best Tapas

apa the World has been a midtown dining favorite since 1994. The dark, cramped space, like a subterranean cave, is thronged practically every night with tapas gobblers and chatty friends who enjoy the conviviality and energy of the space. Waitstaff weave expertly through the maze of chairs, and conversation fills the restaurant with a loud buzz. The floor is covered in big, earthy tiles, and the cream and crimson-painted walls are adorned with striking black Spanish shawls and colorful crockery. The beautiful mosaic tile-encrusted bar juts out into the dining room near the front door, so be prepared to experience a gust of cold air whentime. In fact, when you make a reservation in winter, request a table in the back of the restaurant or along the walls to avoid that goosebump-inducing draft. The best seats in the restaurant are along the windows which look out onto J Street—perfect for people-watching as you savor a Spanish cava or tempranillo from the establishment’s lengthy, exciting wine list. Bring your appetite; you’ll need to be hungry to try everything that sounds good here. Don’t miss the restaurant’s signature tapas, or small plates, which include the celestial Gambas al Ajillo—rock shrimp sautéed in olive oil, loads of garlic, fresh parsley, white wine and dried red chili flakes; and the thinly-sliced, super-crispy Berenjenas: breaded and fried eggplant slathered with a fresh tomato, garlic and herb compote and shredded Parmesan cheese. If you can pry yourself away from the tapas, plunge into the kitchen’s Lomo de Cordero, tender slices of marinated, grilled lamb tenderloin accompanied by saffron and wild mushroom rice; and the finger-licking Marcos Pollo: sautéed free-range chicken breast topped with an organic tomato, olive, and garlic pan sauce. Come with someone you love—you’re guaranteed a spirited, memorable evening. — Kira O'Donnell (Sacramento Magazine)

Source: Voice Media Group

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