I’ve always dreamed of living in Spain. Barcelona is one of my most favourite cities in the world, and I have so much love for Spanish culture, the people, the architecture, the vineyards, the lifestyle (the Spanish know how to fiesta), and of course the food.
So I do get excited when I come across a restaurant in the city that offers authentic Mediterranean Spanish cuisine. There are a few strong contenders already dotted around the city, but perhaps lesser known – and tucked away over in Balmain, is Alegrias Spanish Tapas.
Now when I say tucked away, this place is practically camouflaged. Although situated in a prime location on Darling Street, Balmain’s bustling dining strip, you actually have to walk through another restaurant to get to this little gem; if it wasn’t for the A-board on the pavement outside, you wouldn’t know it was there. Don’t get distracted though, because once you have navigated your way through into the terracotta, mediterranean-style courtyard you will find your self upon the entrance via the grand double doors.
Sydney Social 101 had been invited along for a special evening, and this is one of Alegrias biggest draws as every weekend they feature live entertainment while you dine. On this particular evening, Kevin the owner had invited the very special and eclectic Kalidad a mariachi (Ok that’s Mexican, a small but irrelevant detail)-style acoustic guitar trio. These guys have travelled the world and established a dedicated following. Definitely check them out if they are playing a venue near you.
The $60 pp set menu had been carefully curated for the evening, and once we were sat down on our cosy little table out delightful waiter- who was Spanish- talked us through the five different courses and what to expect.
We selected a Spanish Tempranillo as our ‘vino tinto’ of the evening, a Radio Boka from the Valencia region, which was a bit lighter than I expected but still plenty of bite. The wine was pretty impressive; mostly Spanish imports and the Radio Boka was a nice step up from the house.
We were first served with a very traditional board of deli cold cuts including finely sliced cured jamon, manchego cheese and olive sour dough bread. Our next selection of tapas arrived after a good break with some acoustic guitar medleys in between, and just as it should be, as tapas should never be rushed. The stuffed piquillo peppers were slightly toasted and perfect consistency. No Spanish meal would be complete without patatas bravas, and Alegrias version were crisp and golden, with a dash of mild bravas sauce and a twist of Aioli.
The main course was ‘Cordero asado con couscous’ which translates and roasted lab on a bed of couscous. This was accompanied by enslada verde and there was more than enough. The lamb was adventurously presented with a touch of foam (I was about to ask what this was, but then Kalidad kicked off again).
Dessert, if you can manage it, was churros for the evening. At this point we thought it would be a fantastic idea to order a jug of Sangria. Now I actually consider myself to be somewhat of a Sangria connoisseur and this, was a crowd pleaser, not to alcoholic and very easy to drink. Order a jug (red or white) to share with a group of friends, but would suggest doing so at the start of the evening as by this time we were stuffed and ready to join in the afterparty.
The venue feels grand yet homely; The upstairs terrace can be booked out privately and there is also a completely separate private dining room- although partitioned from the entertainment so suited to corporate functions or if you’re looking to host a smaller, more intimate event.
Alegrias mixes Spanish charm with an Aussie swag; Passionate about the food, the party and making sure you have a good time, this vibe resonates through every aspect of the restaurant; It’s about making dining an experience. Set menus are only available on select evenings, however tapas is a sociable affair and I would thoroughly recommend gathering a group of friends and booking in for a relaxed evening, fantastic value where fun is as much on the agenda as the food is.
What: Alegrias Spanish Tapas restaurant
Where: Unit 9, 332 Darling Street, Balmain, NSW 2041
When: Bookings from 5pm
Web: www.alegrias.com.au
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