Barcelona Restaurant and Wine Bar has locations from Colorado to Georgia, and now this sliver of Spain has nestled in South End, dishing out its signature tapas and offering a selection of hundreds of wines from all over the world.
“What we bring to locals is a European escape,” says President of Barcelona Restaurant and Wine Bar, Adam Halberg.
Two people passionate about mediterranean culture and cuisine opened a 38-seat wine bar in 1995. Ultimately, that little local spot grew into a national operation that plants pockets of Europe in happening neighborhoods, like Charlotte’s South End.
“As soon as we visited South End, we felt an instant sense of compatibility. The vibrant community, the unique architecture, and the overall electric buzz of the neighborhood really resonated,” says Halberg.
“As soon as we visited South End, we felt an instant sense of compatibility.”
Every Barcelona Wine Bar pays homage to the regions that inspired its creation. For example, the restaurants incorporate decor that conjures the sophistication of places like Milan, SoHo, or Rio de Janeiro. Yet, they still leave space to incorporate each host city’s personality. Part of that personality peeks through in the menu offerings.
The Food
“Each Barcelona Wine Bar has a sizeable portion of the menu that gives the executive chef room. We want chefs to be creative and draw inspiration from local and seasonal ingredients,” explains Halberg.
“Executive Chef Nicolas Daniels and Josh, our general manager, have worked the Charlotte restaurant scene for years. They bring relationships with great local farmers, spice mixers, and fishmongers to the menu. So, we change the menu daily to highlight those seasonal flavors, while also staying true to the simplicity of Spanish-inspired cuisine.”
Quintessentially Spanish tapas like Jamón and Manchego Croquetas, Fabada, Patatas Bravas and mains like paella combine with flavors lifted from the cuisines of Portugal, North Africa, and the Riveras of France and Italy to create a truly cosmopolitan taste fusion.
The Wine
Although the food is outstanding, Barcelona’s reputation is for its wine selection. With 400 bottles to choose from and special attention given to wines created in Spain, Portugal, Uruguay, and Argentina, there’s enough variety to satisfy even the most finicky wine connoisseur. Guests who want to explore new wine frontiers before committing to a bottle can select one of the 48 by-the-glass options, or broaden their horizons with a wine flight. No matter where you are on your wine expedition, Barcelona staff members are capable guides.
“Our bartenders and servers are happy to make wine recommendations. They take into account what you’re in the mood for and what will pair well with your tapas selection,” says Emily Nevin-Giannini, Beverage Director of Barcelona Wine Bar.
Like the best Mediterranean meals, the Barcelona menu is designed to promote convivial gatherings. Gatherings where dinners last hours, food is shared, moments are seized, and company is held in the highest regard. Whether you want to dine al fresco with your neighbors, sample something new at the bar with your spouse, or treat your parents to an evening of exceptional ambience and cuisine, Barcelona beckons.
