Spanish flair in Princes Square at Barca Tapas

Transport yourself from the grey, rainy streets by stepping into the restaurant’s interior; here you’re met with warm terracotta tiles on the floor, exposed brick and rouge-painted walls and large modern art oil paintings depicting Catalonian and Valencian life. Indoor citrus trees and palms bring a sense of the outdoors, in. Eat in the main dining room, or on the al fresco Orange Terrace where you can do some fascinating people-watching as you sip and tuck into the authentic fare. Adjacent to the restaurant is the Cava Bar, with colourful glowing displays evocative of Gaudi-esque shapes. This is the ideal stopping-off point after work, or during an afternoon of retail therapy, for a glass of Tempranillo and a catch-up with friends.

Small plates are ideal for sharing and the tapas menu here has something for everyone. Choose classic dishes like patatas bravas, Pimientos De Padrón and gambas al ajillo, or more adventurous dishes like chorizo and black pudding croquetas, Costillas de Maíz (charred corn ribs with Pedro Ximenez sherry, balsamic glaze and toasted almonds), Trucha con Frijoles y Espinacas (fillet of sea trout, butterbeans and spinach in a bread and almond sauce), or spicy octopus. If ordering from this menu, two to three dishes per person are recommended and your camarero (waiter) can help you pick. Then there’s the paella, Spain’s most famous dish. This is cooked to order and served in traditional pans — a great way to experience a taste of Spain in Glasgow. And do try the Pudin De Caramelo (sticky toffee pudding) for afters. While Spanish food can typically be quite meat and seafood-heavy, Barca Tapas offers plenty of vegetarian (and gluten-free) options.

The Menu Del Dia represents excellent value, priced at £16.95 for three tapas. This is available Monday through to Friday. At other times it’s the a la carte menu that’s provided. Not feeling especially hungry? Pop by for drinks and a delectable charcuterie selection including the likes of air-dried sausage, Manchego of La Mancha, Murcia Al Vino (a Murcian hard goats milk cheese soaked in red wine) and San Simon (Galician cured cow’s milk cheese smoked with birch wood). It’s a mini tour of Spain in one single plate.

As well as an extensive wine list showcasing the Spanish vineyard regions, there are bottles of Madr Exceptional are themed cocktails like the Valencian Mojito (Havana Especial with Absolut Mandarin vodka and Licor 43 muddled with fresh oranges, mint and lime); the Raspberry and Pear Mule (Absolut pear vodka, Xante pear liqueur and Chambord shaken with lemon juice and topped with ginger beer); and the Spanish Rosa (Puerto de India strawberry gin and rhubarb syrup mixed with fresh strawberries and lemon). Not drinking? Order a cappuccino or a virgin mango daiquiri.

Barca Tapas is also known for its excellent service. The staff are friendly and welcoming, making diners feel right at home. The atmosphere inside the venue is relaxed and informal, which makes it a convivial spot for a casual lunch, cosy dinner or your group party. In addition to its food and drink offerings, Barca Tapas also hosts events and special menus throughout the year; from wine tastings to cocktail masterclasses and salsa lessons, with special menus compiled for occasions like Valentine’s Day, Mothering Sunday and Christmas.

Barca Tapas keeps more British than continental hours, opening from noon seven days a week with the last table sitting at 7.15 pm Sunday to Wednesday, 8 pm on Thursday and 8.30 pm on Friday and Saturday. To be assured of your chosen slot, book a table and sample some of the venue’s delicious food and drink.