Profiled by de Groots MediaLike the Spanish reclaiming territory from the French, so the owners of Barca have laid claim to this Armadale venue. Previously home to a succession of fancy Frenchies, 1007 High Street is now the abode of Barca, a smart restaurant serving contemporary food with a lingering Spanish influence. The name is an abbreviation of the vibrant city of Barcelona, and the restaurant possesses a sense of European style to match. Subdued colours, clean lines and a certain casual elegance all combine to create a space that any bon vivant would feel at home in.
Barca is by no means a purely Spanish restaurant, but the influence of the robust flavours of Spain on the menu is noticeable. Seasonal Australian produce is the cornerstone of the menu, which is then enhanced by subtle European flavours and techniques. Grazing plates and a range of entrees give plenty of options when it comes to starters – the ploughman’s platter sounds like something you might find in an English pub but actually includes braised chorizo, corned beef, Spanish ham, smoked cheddar and a tomato relish. Turmeric-spiced chicken and coconut filo pie with crispy rice noodles and an Asian herb salad might be lacking in a Spanish influence but it is a striking main course, nonetheless. Paella with Moreton Bay bugs, chorizo, vongali, calamari, prawns, peas and fresh herbs will tempt the tastebuds of those who prefer more traditional flavours. If you need help getting out of your seat after dinner, choose the Belvedere vodka and Red Bull sorbet for dessert – apparently it gives you wings.
Rita Erlich, May 2008
