TAPEO SAI WAN HO

Following the success of the original Tapeo in Central, the restaurant opens another sunnier and more spacious branch in Sai Wan Ho. The new Tapeo sticks with the formula that made the original Tapeo successful: good Spanish tapas and wine and an informal and casual environment. In addition, the new place also has harbor views with an open front.

Tapeo in Sai Wan Ho replicates some of the most fashionable tapas bars across Spain by seating diners next to one another at the bar. In Spain, most tapas places overlook the open kitchen where chefs work. This concept is replicated at Tapeo to create the most authentic experience. The big red leather stools give the place a modern design look. Mixed in with the big brick walls, the stainless steel kitchen, the mirrored back wall with specials written on it and a tiled wall featuring the Tapeo logo, this new branch almost has a lofty feel.

Making wine and food matching easier, there are a number of Spanish wine varieties and different Sherries from Spain and they are all available by the glass. Tapeo’s executive chef, Michael Van Warmelo, has created a range of plates that use both imported Spanish ingredients as well fresh locally-sourced and imported seafood and meats. Michael’s list of tasty ingredients include aged Iberian ham, smoked paprika and olive oils. The tapas plates itself will offer everything from the infamous Pulpo a la Gallega (gently confit octopus with capers and paprika) to Crispy Pork Belly with Quince aioli to the traditional Chorizo Tortilla. We also highly recommend the grilled lamb skewers, the mushrooms, the tomato salad with feta cheese and anything with chorizo or jamon Iberico. The salty meats really get the tastebuds dancing. To balance the tangy flavor of the meats try the Churros & Chocolate (Spanish donuts with chocolate) and Crème Catalana for dessert.

You may think Sai Wan Ho is an odd location for a restaurant, however a whole new dining strip is being developed in this waterfront area. People coming from Sai Kung, Clearwater Bay and the busy Tai Koo Shing area have easy access to this location and the waterfront location can be very romantic at dusk and at night. If you feel like doing something different, the Tapeo in Sai Wan Ho is definietly worth the trip.