LCBO Food & Drink Autumn 2023

TASTY & TRADITIONAL TAPAS Rioja’s wide range of avours makes it the perfect partner for tapas—an appetizer or snack in Spanish cuisine. We rounded up the best tapas restaurants both at home and abroad for an authentic experience your palate won’t soon forget.

TORONTO Bar Isabel

A rustic-chic spot on the city’s buzzing College Street that focuses on local ingredients to enhance acclaimed chef Grant van Gameren’s contemporary Spanish cuisine, such as hand-cut Jamón Ibérico and Pork Secreto with Chorizo Spice. BARISABEL.COM Madrina Bar & Tapas With a wide-ranging menu that “marries whimsy with Barcelona classics,” this Distillery District gem satifies just about any craving, from small plates of Catalan Croqueta to feasts of Paella and Whole Fried Branzino. MADRINATAPAS.COM Casa Paco Cozy and casual, this newcomer mixes mainstays of both Spanish and Italian cuisines. A plate of tomato, bread and olives with peppers and cheese to start gives way to sea-forward mains like lobster and octopus, with appetizing vegetarian options, too. CASAPACO.CA Located in the medieval part of Haro, a historic town in Rioja, Nublo boasts a well-deserved Michelin star for its cutting-edge cuisine and a commitment to pure flavours that take diners on a journey through the region. NUBLORESTAURANT.COM Venta Moncalvillo The artistry of the Echapresto brothers—one the chef, the other the sommelier—was awarded a Michelin star in 2010 and has held the honour ever since. A garden that’s abundant with more than 140 species speaks to the restaurant’s passion for local ingredients. @VENTAMONCALVILLO Calle Laurel Arguably the tapas capital of the world, this bustling street in Logrono is the perfect place for an authentic food crawl. Sample amazing small bites from various vendors as you stroll—and remember to stop for a taste of Rioja wine in between! SPAIN Nublo

VENTA MONCALVILLO

BAR ISABEL

CASA PACO

NUBLO

SPAIN’S FINEST WINE REGION

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT RIOJAWINE.COM RIOJAWINE.COM

@RIOJAWINE

VENTA MONCALVILLO / SERGIO ESPINOSA BAR ISABEL / RICK O'BRIEN CASA PACO / CHUCK ORTIZ / BACK OF HOUSE