 With a bold red-and-gold contemporary design squeezed into a historic Old Pasadena building, Bar Celona projects a very festive vibe. In addition to the sleek dining room and tapas bar, there’s also a hip cocktail lounge with its own entrance, a lively space where massive projection screens make it a great place to catch a soccer game while sipping an Albariño or munching on tapas. Chef Josef Centeno (currently of Lazy Ox Canteen) consulted on a menu that features modern versions of Spanish dishes. Among the more traditional tapas selections are tortilla española, whipped salt cod and potato on grilled bread, and authentic Spanish cheeses and cured meats. Dinner entrées include Tasmanian ocean trout with lima beans and gooseberries, braised short rib with olive oil-crushed potato and a red wine reduction, and saffron-scented paellas. However, Bar Celona’s cuisine lacks the imprint of the talented and innovative Centeno, nor do the more traditional dishes here evoke fond memories of authentic Spanish tapas bars. SangrÃa, both red and white, flows freely and some decent Spanish wines are offered as well. For dessert, don't miss the Bar Celona split, an impressive presentation of Grand Marnier-flambéed bananas accompanied by various ice creams and sauces, or churros with chocolate dipping sauce.
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Splurging at top-rated restaurants is fun for special events, but where can you go for a good quality meal that won't break the bank? Gather the change out of your piggy bank and sofa cushions and take it to one of our selections for the best cheap eats in your area. Also, check out our picks for the Top 40 Cheap Eats in the U.S.
