Home > Baltimore Bars & Clubs > Bar Review > Inside: Tapas Teatro

Vibe: Tapas Teatro recreates that in-utero feeling. The inviting bar/restaurant, attached to the Charles Theatre, welcomes all clientèle, including those who aren't part of the Mount Vernon social scene and even those amused simpletons who giggle when they hear "tapas," because they swore they've heard "topless."

Stools are limited at the bar, but the uniquely shaped area, hidden away from the main room by a brick, is worth a five-minute stand. Practice your best heavy-breathing on the neck of the guy in front of you to ensure an empty seat sooner than later. When the dinner crowd leaves the marble bar for their small plates of edible pleasure, the chic spot is custom-made for a tight group of friends to take over.

Crowd: It's safe to say Tapas' bar-goers celebrated their 21st at least five (or even 25) years ago. On a Saturday night, middle-aged couples, soon-to-be Golden Girls, crisp 30-somethings and a few mini-sausage fests stuff the bar.

Granny and her gal pal Pearl were dripping with turquoise and silver during our visit. Around these broads and other polished patrons, feel free to bust out your artsy earrings, man-purse or conversation-sparking clothing.

Libations: Most people drink Tapas' jugs of delectable sangria. The chuggable homemade brew is definitely the drink; however, a wide variety of beer and wine is available. Riding on an alcoholic's carousel behind the bar, bottles of standard liquors are also offered.

Sounds: Undistinguishable music floats down from the ceiling. But the tunes are barely audible because mouths are constantly in motion -- gossiping, cackling or explaining to those not in the know that tapas dishes are meant to be shared, come out as soon as they're ready and are ordered throughout a meal.

Service: Two personable senoritas of sangria worked the crowd quickly during our visit. They went above and beyond the usual "What'll ya have?" to keep everyone happy. Their efficiency won over the thirsty, straight-faced, slurring and impatient among us.

Bottom Line: If you think the smell of fresh, buttery popcorn deserves to be bottled for a body fragrance, you'll love sitting in the bar before show time at the Charles. The strong scent enters through an open door connecting Tapas to the theater.

Other than the wafting aromas, Tapas is a great place to sip down a few and grab a bite to eat. It's a perfect pre-game spot before wilder club thrills or a movie, especially if you'd like room for an extra large tub of popcorn or a giant box of SnoCaps.

Add a comment