Tapeo

Tapeo in West Palm Beach is one of the greatest culinary discoveries I've made in the downtown area.  I think, ever.  It has assumed the two-story space on the southeast corner of Clematis and Narcissus, one that has housed other delightful spots like Cabana and Tin Fish (and one forgettable joint just after) over the years.  My wife noticed while strolling after work one recent evening and thought we should try it.  We went without a reservation (though one is recommended) and were wowed.  That rarely happens.

I wanted to get a review up ASAP as eateries come and go quickly in South Florida.  Though honestly, I shouldn't be too concerned this time.  Tapeo is receiving unanimous praise online and its excellence in cuisine and service is quickly spreading via word of mouth around town.   Chef Francisco Javier Gutierrez and owner Juan Carlos Mendez have brought an old European feel to decor and menu alike.  Of the latter, the long and wildly diverse list of tapas could become a gastronome's new hobby.  As an appetizer to our entree (we went a somewhat traditional route for our maiden voyage) we had the wonderful chicken croquetas, and will go for the green and bechemel sauce laden alternates on our (sure to be many) subsequent visits.

My wife had the grilled salmon and I had the incredible zarzuela, a multitude of seafood (mussels, clams, prawns) in a tomato broth that was drinkable.   I chased it with sangria.  Amazing amazing.

Tapeo is serious about its food, but also the social aspect of it.  Tables are close to allow strangers to become compadres in new discoveries.  A couple nearby struck up a conversation with us about the octopus.  They and several others in the restaurant appeared to be from the Island (Palm Beach), and were perhaps uncharacteristically friendly.  The spirit of San Sebastian and Guipuzoca has some effect on people.

Go to Tapeo, which translates to the art of eating tapas, at the first opportunity.  Fingers crossed, this place will be a classic, perhaps as much so as the French wonder Pistache, on the north side of Clematis, has been.

Tapeo

118 Clematis Street

West Palm Beach, FL 33401

(561) 514-0811

tapeotapas.com