Iberian delights
Savour the flavours of Spain and Portugal in the heart of Panaji at Isabella’s Tapas Bar, where traditional cuisine meets innovative culinary techniques
SHERYL GONSALVES
Isabella’s Tapas Bar in Panaji is a modern Taperia and Vermuteria blending Spanish and Portuguese culinary traditions with local ingredients. Specialising in tapas—seafood, meat, and vegetarian options—they cater to diverse tastes.
Recently, my colleague Ramandeep and I arrived at Isabella’s Tapas Bar, excited to try some new dishes. As we entered, music filled the air, and our attention was drawn to the jute decorations, cane chairs, azulejos-style plates, and soft lighting.
Our meal started on a positive note with our choice of beverages. I had the Fig Soda and enjoyed its rich and fruity flavour, while Ramandeep, a pineapple enthusiast, opted for the Pineapple & Basil, but without soda—she prefers it with water. The basil leaves, she noted, added a refreshing twist to the classic pineapple juice.
The tapas bar excel in crafting vermut and amari using traditional wine fortification methods and innovative sous vide techniques, offering classic styles like Dry, Bianco, and Rosso. Their bar menu includes cervezas (beers), Spanish summer cocktails, sangria, vino cocktails, lager on tap, signature vermouth cocktails, and more. Guests can enhance their dining experience by pairing wines with menu selections.
After struggling to decide on starters, we were recommended four dishes. The Gambas al Ajillo (Spanish garlic prawns) that came with mildly toasted Goan poi, had a generous dose of garlic on plump prawns enhanced by lime, that brought out all the delicate flavours. Next, we tried the Pinchos Morunos (grilled chicken in Spanish smoked paprika with herb aioli), where tender chicken paired perfectly with sweet onions.
Besides the non-vegetarian options, the menu also offers a variety of vegetarian dishes. We enjoyed the Croquetas de Champiñones (mushroom croquettes), crispy on the outside and full of creamy mushrooms, along with the Berenjenas Rellenas y Migas (grilled aubergine stuffed with herbed cheese and topped with crisp crumbs). The aubergine stood out as one of our favourite starters due to its smoky explosion of flavours and sweetish sauce.
While we awaited the main course, we enjoyed the cozy atmosphere, with the soothing sound of rain outside. Ramandeep entertained me with amusing stories from her life, just as the Frango Piri Piri arrived. Served with crispy potato wedges, the succulent chicken was covered in a sweet and spicy sauce that gave a satisfying kick of heat. Finally, we tried one of their best sellers, the Seafood Paella—a classic Spanish meal with moist and flavourful Goan rice, juicy prawns, squid, and clams.
When we checked the dessert menu, our excitement grew despite feeling full. The hot, crispy churros coated with cinnamon and sugar, served with ample chocolate and caramel dips, delighted our taste buds. Unsure of what could top that, we also enjoyed their sticky toffee pudding, rich with layers of flavour balancing sweetness and saltiness. Ramandeep chuckled as I exclaimed ‘wow’ with every bite. A scoop of ice cream provided a cooling contrast to the dessert’s richness, making it the perfect end to our meal.
All in all, for those looking to try something new and taste a bit of Spain and Portugal with local ingredients, this place provides a unique and memorable culinary experience.
