Espana Neil Taylor Espana

Espana Awards

Dive into the tastes of Spain at this popular West End eatery.
Openings: Dinner nightly

Features

Espana, Vancouver, canada


Espana Restaurant Review:


Quite possibly Vancouver's most authentic Spanish cuisine rolls out of a postage-stamp-size kitchen at a breakneck pace thanks to co-owner/British chef Neil Taylor (an alum of London's River Café and Cibo, Vancouver). Tapas are both simple and exciting. Case in point: the humble white anchovy, which he elevates, serving a raft of them whole on toast with piquillo peppers and quail eggs. Other choices include a refreshing watermelon salad with radishes, pickled onions, feta, harissa, cilantro and mint; patatas bravas with spicy tomato sauce and aïoli; and a platter of cured meats (Serrano ham, Ibérico chorizo or lomo). Harissa-grilled lamb with carrot purée, caraway, peas, garlic yoghurt and cilantro, and mussels cooked in oloroso sherry with tomatoes, olives, oregano, chili and capers are also winners. The changing daily paella is a must, but be aware that even the small portion size handily feeds two. For dessert, we recommend Taylor's flan or the rhubarb fool with rose water and pistachios. A selection of cheeses rounds out the menu. Co-owner Ed Perrow has compiled all-Spanish wine and beer lists. Consider his sherry flights, dry and sweet, and put yourself in his hands for inspired pairings. Best bet to secure a table? Arrive early or after 9 p.m.