Carmen

Carmen - A Tapas Moment

I have always been a huge fan of Tapas ever since I visited Spain in 2012. I was excited to be introduced to another unique Tapas restaurant in Toronto called Carmen.  This hidden gem is located on 922 Queens Street West. When I first walked into the restaurant, I noticed the restaurant was long and trendy. The layout of the restaurant pulled me and invited me to walk towards the middle where I noticed the hostess was standing. Naturally, once I was seated, I ordered a refreshing red wine Sangria that was delivered in a mason jar. I first started my Spanish experience with a large order of ‘warm olives and roasted almonds. After snacking on this delicious appetizer, I tried the “Tentempie de Ceriche” (white fish cheviche Boston Lettuce Tacos) which was light and flavourful. There was a refreshing burst of flavours that tantalized my taste buds. Yum! Next I ordered the “Ensalada de Col Rizadacon Queso Salad.” This salad contained one of my favourite greens, kale. It also had fresh ricotta, pine nuts, and breaded poached ‘PeeWee Egg.’

I had the pleasure of meeting the owner, Luis, who gave me the history of his restaurant and explained the unique seating style of his establishment. Carmen is set up for patrons to enjoy different experiences every time they visit the restaurant. He has the bar set up for those wanting to stop by for a quick drink and a few tapas dishes while on the go. Next he has a tables set up along the side with two seats for couples to relax and have a view of the bar and the windows looking onto the streets. When you walk farther into Carmen you can select from intimate areas for a romantic experience or seats facing the open kitchen. For larger groups, Luis has open concept tables with backless chairs to encourage ‘sharing’ tapas dishes and conversations. Either experience or feeling that you are going for, Carmen has the place to entertain you.

Like any great Spanish restaurant, Carmen offers a wide selection of traditional paellas and Spanish artifacts around the space. I was drawn into the stunning map of Spain that was posted on the wall where I was sitting and the “Chefs” hard at work in the open concept kitchen.

I loved the intimate setting, the dim lighting, the food, the service, the clean washrooms and the uniqueness of Carmen. This is a must “experience” restaurant to visit with your girlfriends or significant other. Carmen has truly captured the true experience of understanding the purpose of a tapas restaurant. A serving of tapas is designed to be small enough to encourage conversation. By serving smaller portions to patrons, there is less focus on eating all the food that is set before them. This gorgeous restaurant is sure to inspire positive bonds with your friends and perhaps inspire you to take a trip to Spain. Thank- you Luis. You are an inspiring.


By: Sara Mody