During October, I was fortunate to come across a tiny restaurant, seating no more than 20 in total. It's a small and recent start up, with a lot of potential. Established in 2012, Tapaella is actually the first Spanish restaurant set up in Kennedy Town. However it is not just the typical Spanish restaurants, the chef and owner aim to 'bring a modern twist' to the local Spanish paellas, tapas and steak. A unique feature is the Tapas set, which comes with 4 different types of Tapas on one huge plate, which is ideal for sharing with the table or just eating as a lunch set! The restaurant decor is simple, but homey, with little checkered white and red table cloths, creating a rather warm and comfy setting, which matches the style of food offered. Similarly, the waiters do not really have a strict uniform, which gives the restaurant the relaxed atmosphere. I went for the Tapas Platter A, with the Ham and chicken croquetas Tortilla la Espanola Fresh mussels, white wine Sauteed mushrooms All lunch sets also came with a soup or salad, and tea/coffee/dessert. I went for the salad, which was a simple mixed lettuce salad with a few tomatoes, topped up with a tomato based vinagarette. The discrete tomato flavoring in the dressing definitely brought through that Gapacho tomato Spanish twist towards such a simple dish, which I really found quite creative. Next came the much awaited large plate of Spanish goodies. The mussels and mushrooms were steaming as the waitress placed the ginormous plate in front of my eyes, and a mouthwatering scent of white wine and garlic wafted up my nose. Out of all the dishes on the plate, the sauteed mushrooms and fresh mussels with white wine were definitely my favorite. I really loved how fresh the mussels were and how there was a fine balance between the white wine and garlic taste, without each overpowering the other. It was also complemented the texture and lightness of the sauteed mushrooms very well, with the similar rubbery texture and garlicy and herby explosion of flavors. The ham and chicken croquetas had an innovative twist to them, with both Spanish flavors and a taste of Hong Kong with the chicken and crunchy salty skin. I did not enjoy the tortillas that much, because I felt there was a lack of texture and strong flavor. I was not quite sure what the chef was trying to bring through from the dish. Nonetheless, it was undoubtedly a delectable meal and I cannot wait to visit again!
Address: Shun Cheong Building, 28 Hau Wo St, Kennedy Town 2817 9792
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