Las Ramblas

From tapas to Italian to Low Country, then back to tapas, and, yes, even a steak house, these are the top new places to eat

Written by Jon Luther and Richard Thurmond
Photographs by Chris Edwards

 
Las Ramblas
2400 Park Road
704-335-8444

Las Ramblas Executive Chef Blake Hartwick spent a month in Spain preparing his authentic tapas menu. (Chris Edwards)

More than anything else, Las Ramblas is a fun place to eat and drink. There are four distinct areas, each with its own feel—the square bar in the middle, the counter looking into the open kitchen, the tall tables between the counter and the bar, and the elegant dining room. Servers bustle about in red T-shirts, hauling trays of tapas and glasses of Spanish wine. And with small plates like abondigas (veal and pork meatballs) and spiced lamb brochetas, plus flat-bread pizzas and top-notch paella, chef Blake Hartwick carries out the Catalan theme nicely. 

Sweet Spot
Don't miss the Crème de Catalan (lemon cinnamon crema and caramelized sugar).

Get Out
Look for the outdoor bocce ball court and fire pits.

Drink Up
Wine guru Eric Solomon consulted on the all-Spanish wine list, which includes twenty-eight glasses for $7 or less.

Beware
Tapas seem cheap ($3 to $8), but the bill can add up.