Ipshita Sharma gets a fun little getaway to Spain in the heart of Dubai courtesy of Lola Taberna in Barsha Heights.
I was introduced to Spanish food by a friend in a restaurant on Oxford Street in London. I was mesmerised by the idea of tapas, that much like mezze, is a small plate concept that allows you to try different kinds of dishes. Any cuisine that let’s me try all the varieties in one go is is what it’s all about!
Lola Taberna is a high-ceilinged, beautifully decorated Spanish cuisine licensed restaurant based out of the TRYP by Wyndham Hotel in Barsha Heights. Placed in the middle of the city, makes it a great spot for date nights, ladies nights and group get-togethers.
The ambience is very much like the inside of a hacienda — all wooden detailing and green accents. There is a big screen on one side running various Spanish videos which we found to be a bit of a distraction, but the overall vibe is fantastic.
We start off the tapas trail after being informed that their signature items feature the famed Iberian ham and other cuts, but we stuck to a strictly pescetarian menu and got the ball rolling.
The Tiradito de Lubina and “mojo verde” or Sea Bass Tiradito and “Green Mojo” (Canary Islands Sauce) starts us off. It is paper-thin slices of raw seabass with a beautiful flavourful green sauce. This dish melts on my tongue and leaves just a hint of spice behind.
Tomates “Aliñaos” and Olivas or Seasoned Tomates and Olives was next because we’re huge fans of tomatoes and this just sang to us. These tomatoes just burst open with happiness and this is a great tapas plate especially when you have a glass of red sangria to go with it.
We should make a special note of the Sangria now, because not only was the Sangria at Lola one of the better ones we’ve had in Dubai, they also do a cute little activity with it. Armed with a crafty decanter called the Porron, the servers challenge you to drink your Sangria at speeds that keep increasing so that your gulps need to catch up! A fun little game that can leave you pretty tipsy if you’re not careful!
Next comes along the Gambas al Pil Pil or the Garlic and Chili Prawns — a perennial favourite, this is a must try. Smoky prawns with a light zing that are both garlicky and incredible. We do try the Patatas Bravas or roasted potatoes but weren’t very impressed.
We end off the tapas with the Calamares “a la Andaluza”, and all’i’oli or Andalusian Style Calamari with All’i’oli. These lightly fried calamari is just right and the perfect precursor to the main event that arrives soon after.
The Paella De Verduras de Temporada or the Paella with Seasonal Vegetables is priced at Aed 149 for two people. This was easily the best paella we have had in Dubai. Full of flavour, brimming with veggies and scented with saffron, every part of this dish was just a joy. Polished off in minutes, it left a big smile on our faces.
But our smiles wouldn’t last much longer if we didn’t give a chance to the Churros-Porras & Chocolate or the Spanish Churros-Porras & Chocolate. Oh these crunchy,crispy, soft, pillow, sugary batons of yumminess were delightful!!! This Spanish haven is sure to become a favourite!
Good : Great location, fantastic Sangria, amazing Paella and the best churros!
Bad :The huge screen that is very distracting.
Trendy : Head there for ladies night and grab yourself a Porron!
About Lola Taberna Española
From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the ancient port of Cádiz, where the Andalusian icon Lola Flores was born, Lola pays tribute to Spanish cuisine and culture in a casual, contemporary, and relaxed taberna-style atmosphere. With food cooked from the heart and music sang from the soul, Lola brings back those long Spanish family lunches that turn into dinners. As the night evolves, Lola migrates from a casual dining taberna to a lively evening atmosphere. LOLA caters to crowds who love to gather and enjoy food, delicious drinks, and friendly service.
Fridays and Saturdays at this Spanish taberna are always exciting, with the tantalizing flavors of Spain found in every dish.