BAR ISABEL
Spanish

Toronto has been waiting for this– a hipster tapas bar as good as any in Madrid, with its curved ceilings and Mexican tiled floors– surprisingly located right in the middle of Little Italy. The lively clientele ranges from families to the bright younger crowd looking to hook up over intricate cocktails at the cherry wood bar. But it's the food that draws, including Devilled Eggs with home made Blood Sausage, heaping plates of Spanish cured meats, smoked Sweetbreads, Salt Cod, Raw Tuna, and perfect meaty grilled Octopus. Complete your meal with the Basque Cake and its creamy interior. Emphasis is on well priced Spanish and Portuguese wines, but the unusual beer choices and extensive cocktail list are definitely worth a look.

797 College Street     (416) 532-2222

PATRIA
Spanish

Charles Khabouth scores once again with this popular energetic venue, gastronomically on track and attracting the fashionable set. New age lighting cris-cross the ceiling of this two story open space with its three 7-foot stylized portraits and cast iron candle holders. Best described as modern-rustic; it's as if you dropped into an upscale tapas bar in Barcelona. Sherry is the perfect sip with the salted almonds or spicy olives. Tapas includes imported fresh-sliced Spanish hams and cheeses with quince jam and fresh sourdough bread, Polpo a la Gallega dusted with smoked paprika served in traditional earthenware cazeulas, crunchy Ham Croquettes, and non-traditional Clams & Chorizo Pasta. Move onto the Cuttlefish Pasta, wood fire roasted Rib-eye, tasty Lamb Chops in Romanesco sauce, and of course Paella– which is big enough for sharing. Don't forget to sample the sugar-dusted Churros (crispy fried dough), perfect with coffee. An attractive well trained staff can assist you with your wine choices from the amazing wine list.

480 King St. W. (West of Spadina Ave.)
(416) 276-8875

SALT WINE BAR
Spanish

Chef Dave Kemp uses mainly seasonal local products in his eclectic menu featuring a concise selection of Canadian/Iberian tapas. Located at the top of the trendy Ossington strip, this cozy sixty-seat restaurant boasts snack-sized dishes that satisfies – without taking a bite out of your wallet. Start with the Iberian charcuterie such as exquisite Jamon Iberico and Venison Sausage. Move on to the sublime Pork Belly Tacos, Octopus, the crisp-skinned Duck Confit Gnochi or dry aged Ribeye. A well balanced wine list offers extensive choices of reasonably priced Spanish and Portuguese wines. The inventive cocktail list is worth sampling. Salt's crowd pleasing cuisine and warm, knowledgeable service will leave you saying "El gusto es mio" or "The pleasure is mine".

225 Ossington Avenue      (416) 533-7258

TORITO
Spanish, Tapas

Be part of the lively pulse of Kensington Market from Torito’s street patio, while enjoying a variety of tapas matched with Toronto’s best assortment of Spanish Sherries and wines. Or step inside to enjoy mouth watering, delicious small dishes delivered by the friendly, efficient staff. Those in the know move on through to grab a table on the quiet comfortable outdoor patio in the back. Wherever you chose to sit, your experience will be well worth the visit.

276 Augusta Ave. (south of College St.)
(416) 961-7373