Playful, modern, even moody, Bar Chica has arrived in the King West neighbourhood, promising guests reinvented tapas and a Spanish-themed good time. Envisioned as a sister restaurant to Patria -- ever mature and traditional -- Chica is easygoing, spontaneous and effortlessly cool.
Meant to transport guests to Barcelona, and its abundance of tapas bars and late-night hangouts, Chica is the newest partnership from INK Entertainment and Scale Hospitality Group. Opened on April 8, the new restaurant has taken over the former Bar Buca space after a complete makeover, designed by Danielle Adams. With a mix of old-world Spanish details and modern accents, Chica is described as “mysterious and seductive.” Dressed in a palette of deep mauves and greens, she flaunts a mosaic focal wall, oversized custom wicker light fixtures and colourful, textured artwork created by local artisans.
Our goal was to transform the space, reinvent tapas in a way that was truly unique to us and provide a bustling and energized environment in which to enjoy the entire experience,” says Hanif Harji, CEO and founder of Scale Hospitality.
Crafted by Scale Hospitality executive chef Ted Corrado, development chef Zachary Albertsen and Chica head chef Kevin Le, Chica’s menu features modern takes on Spain’s favoured fare. Sharing plates include smaller bites, like spiced and smoked Almendras Sazonadas, rosemary- and orange-marinated Manzanilla olives, and Croquetas de Jamon Con Trufas, with black truffle and Manchego cheese. Also on offer, are Patatas Bravas, made of duck fat potato pavé, parsley purée, tomato, black garlic and quail egg, along with plenty of seafood-centric dishes. Opt for Tostadas Con Sardinas, toast with sardines, or Vieiras Crudas, made of raw scallops swimming in coconut leche de tigre broth, for an authentic taste of Barcelona.
Larger offerings include Maíz y Sobrasada, with smoked corn, corn foam, and scallion oil, Secreto de Cerdo Iberico, with mojo verde, caramelized onions, and chanterelles, and Arroz Negro, a take on paella made with squid ink-infused Bomba rice and charred squid.
Curated by Scale Hospitality corporate sommelier Lauren Hall, the Spain-focused wine list includes a range of styles sourced from across the country, from classic bottles to those sourced from emerging new winemakers. A focus on Sherry is also evident on the menu, and is perfect for anyone craving the most authentic experience possible.
Also on offer, is a modern, vibrant list of cocktails fitting of a secret laneway tapas bar. Highlights include the Benidorm, a martini made with Serrano ham-infused rum, and the Casa Mila, a pastel-mauve, floral drink topped with a Cava float.
“Following the success of Patria, we’re excited to introduce a new Spanish culinary experience to Toronto’s restaurant and bar scene with the launch of Chica,” says Charles Khabouth, CEO and founder of INK Entertainment Group. “Chica has been carefully curated to showcase both the traditional and inventive side of Spanish cuisine, with a more intimate and lively atmosphere reflective of Barcelona tapas bars.” A place that harnesses Barcelona’s vibrant food scene and gregarious vibe, Bar Chica is the younger sister that's always stealing the show.
Bar Chica is open daily, from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. To reserve, visit their website or call 416-479-9779.
