The tapas joint offers a slice of Barcelona with a bevy of traditional tapas bites as well and an extensive drinks list
Our foodie trips to Barcelona in the pre-Covid period often meant queueing for hours in order to try the extremely popular Tapas 24, helmed by renowned Spanish chef Carles Abellán. And while those foodie jaunts seem to be over, at least, in the next two years, we are quite lucky that the tapas joint has opened its first Asian outpost right in our buzzy Robertson Quay neighbourhood. It is operated by F&B company L’Angelus Group that is also behind European concepts such as L’Angélus Club Street and Les Bouchons.
How did this partnership come about? L’Angelus Group founder Pinaki Rath shared that he discovered Tapas 24 while on a tapas bar hop in Barcelona and realised that its concept would be welcomed by the Singapore audience. He said: “We really feel that there is an opportunity to offer a deeper dive into Spanish cuisine, with a focus on standout food, exquisite interior design, and good service.”
Bringing the authentic Tapas 24 experience always starts with the food, and that is why the kitchen is helmed by chef Carolina Garcia Santamaria, a protégé of Abellàn who boasts over a decade of experience working in top Spanish establishments. She is joined by young local chefs Kimberly Lui and Troy Lim, who prepared for this role by working with Abellán and understanding Spanish products and what makes traditional tapas dishes.
Related: Tapas 24 From Barcelona is Opening its First Asia Outlet in Singapore in May 2021
That said, they offer a delectable menu of must-have classics served in the original Tapas 24 outlet that attracted throngs of hungry gourmands from around the world. Think Tapas 24 Bikini Sandwich loaded with black truffles, Iberico ham, and buffalo mozzarella, as well as Barceloneta’s Bomba or crisp potato balls stuffed with pork and potato. The selection of large plates is equally sumptuous and is a good mix of traditional and contemporary creations, from the paella de gambas al ajillo (garlic prawn paella) to the barbecued ribs en bosam, which are essentially josper-grilled ribs served Korean bosam style—wrapped in lettuce.
Barcelona food trips often meant sipping on cavas, sangrias and other boozy drinks too, and this is well represented in the Singapore outlet that has a dynamic beverage programme. Apart from the Old and New World wines, beers and cocktails, the list also includes a selection of Spanish Street Cocktails served in a pitcher. One highlight is the Agua de Valencia, a refreshing cocktail mix of cava, gin, vodka and orange juice that is made for our hot and humid weather. Another Catalan favourite is the Shandy o Clara, which makes for the perfect thirst quencher with its refreshing combination of beer, lemon juice and lemon foam.