Tapas on Hindley

LOCATION
In the heart of the West End, at the intersection of Hindley and Morphett Streets.


PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA

The bigger the gaggle of amigos you bring here the better. This way, more fun is had shaking your marakas on the dance floor. It is also a delicious excuse to order every one of the tapas. Whet your whistle with a little something from the drinks menu and crunch on paprika roasted almonds while you await the sexy dishes. Owner Paola Coro earned her reputation at Adelaide’s much-awarded The Apothecary 1878 wine bar, which explains the nifty list of top shelf tipples. Allow a Spanish Fly to land on your table and you will buzz with delight after gulps of luscious Lena Banana, Kahlua, Baileys, fresh nana and cream. When the food arrives, sea-foodies will pounce on the gambas al ajillo – pan-fried prawns with paprika, garlic and lemon; and mejilloes – mussels steamed in white wine, chilli, tomato and herbs. Those looking for some grunt will love the kick of spicy chorizo sausage, mouth-filling albondigas (Spanish meatballs topped with goat’s curd) or San Jose jamon (ham) served on crusty bread. Spinach and white bean tortilla with potato and parmesan croquettes will round out the meal. Paella fans will be pleased with traditional and vegetarian versions of the classic dish.


A pitcher of Sangria plays perfect partner to these goodies. “Head Honcho” bartender and Spaniard, Patrick Pamiloza whips up beauties. Try his blend of pomegranate liqueur, pear vodka, red wine, hibiscus fusion and pear. This capricious mixture may be just the persuasion you need to partake in a salsa lesson. Live flamenco performances fill the room every Friday night, where you are guaranteed to meet characters as colourful as the decor. The walls are splashed with orange, purple and cornflower blue – all as vibrant as the dancing, drinking and eating that goes on within them.

Roz Taylor