1014 Main Street, Vancouver

Tel: 604-565-8815

Web: http://www.bodegaonmain.ca/

Twitter @bodegaonmain

Advice: Doesn’t take reservations. Walk-ins welcome.

Returning to their family roots, Owner, Paul Rivas, along with his Business Manager and sister, Natalie Rivas have created a beautiful abode that incorporates fixtures from the original La Bodega that their parents founded downtown over 40 years ago.

I have dined here a couple times already, enjoying many of the authentic Spanish dishes and drinks. I began one of my meals with the Gato Loco cocktail with fig infused akvavit, antico formula, marmalade and orange cream bitters. I loved the refreshing Ensalda de Hinojo ($8) with shaved fennel, pine nuts, Red onion and citrus; along with the traditional Patat Bravas ($5); and the delicious Pisto Andaliz ($7) vegetable stew!

The Gambas Al Agillo ($8) sautéed prawns in garlic and chillies and sherry is a classic dish that you would widely find in Spain, and here it is delicious. Loved the outstanding Albondigas ($8) with tomato sauce and grated manchego; as well as the Chuletillas de Cordero ($12) rosemary and garlic marinated lamb chops, spiced potatoes and onions.

The Pollo Frito ($7) brined and deep fried free range chicken drummets with garlic and sherry were good for sharing as was the Costillas de Res ($14) tender braised short ribs; lastly the Paella Mixta ($25) was a large pan filled with saffron rice, peas, with seafood, chicken, chorizo and lemon wedges!

For dessert which is a must here, I loved the Rice Pudding ($7) with dulce de leche heavenly and delicious. I also loved the Bombon de Higos ($6) chocolate covered figs stuffed with almonds and mascarpone.  The Churros ($6) are served warm, home-made and they come with a hot dipping chocolate and vanilla mascapone.

You’ll find a selection of fine Spanish wines as well as Sherry to go along with the Spanish tapas and cocktails, savouring late into the night.

Review By: Richard Wolak

Vancouver, BC V6A 2W1, Canada