You would think Hong Kong had reached saturation point when it comes to Spanish tapas restaurants but apparently there is still room – ample, in fact – for more. The newest addition comes in the form of Tapagria, a sprawling restaurant specialising in both tapas and sangria.
The tapas at Tapagria is not as we know it. Aside from a few classics such as paella ($110), dishes tend to veer away from the traditional and head towards the more modern, blending in with the overall vibe of the place. We’re seriously impressed with the VIC – ‘very important croquettes’ ($22 each). Large, perfectly creamy croquettes, served with a thin slice of delicious jamon Serrano, these definitely deserve their name. The crispy suckling pig ($95), slow-cooked to melt-in-the-mouth perfection, is delicious, as is the grilled Galician-style octopus ($85), served atop chunky mashed potato – although it would benefit from a little more paprika.
Of course, there’s also the sangria – a lot of it. There’s a rather overwhelming range of 65 concoctions available, including the pear vodka-infused ‘peret’ ($430 per jug), as well as, of course, the ol’ classic.
There are still some kinks in need of an iron at Tapagria. Perhaps the portion-to-price ratio of certain dishes could be improved. It does, however, serve decent food with a view that’s hard to beat, and possibly the best (or at least most important) croquettes you’ll find in town. Ale Wilkinson
Tapagria 18/F, The One, 100 Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2147 0111; tapagria.hk. Dinner for two: $500.