In a lot of ways, Tapa the World is the anti-late-night hangout. Despite the many years of being one of the only kitchens in town open until midnight, the joint has resisted the urge to turn itself into a euro-tinged, ultra-douche lounge, and instead focuses on putting damn good food on the tables until the clock hits 11:59.
I was at Tapa a few weekends ago with a few friends in from out of town. Having the newcomers in tow made me look at the old Spanish gal with a new, appreciative perspective. At 10:30 at night, there weren’t too many other places in town at which we would have had nearly as much fun, eaten nearly as well, or drank nearly so exotically.
The usual “zone defense” employed by the Tapa waitstaff was effective in getting us plenty of food in short order. You don’t expect a really personal touch at Tapa, what with the five to seven different folks bringing your respective dishes, but on this night our primary waiter was fantastic, making several spot-on recommendations and taking proper care of us.
There are very few places in town at which you’ll find better empanadas, a better oil and vinegar dipping sauce, or a better tortilla Espanol. On this particular visit, the artichoke hearts were delicious, the plate of Spanish cheeses, olives, and cured meats was decadent, and the drinks were top rate.
For the longest time, I considered Tapa the World as one of those places that seemed earthy and exotic and unique in my early twenties when I didn’t know any better. But with a few more years behind me and a bit more world weariness, I still find that the lady of Spain holds her own, carrying a torch in the dark night for hungry travelers who dare venture midtown after the proper dinner hour.
One last thing–extra credit to Tapa for having live music almost every night of the week.
Tapa the World- 2115 J St. Sacramento
Food***1/2 Atmosphere*** Service***
The Sac Rag 
And a nice little (little) outdoor patio area.
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with all the new spots constantly popping up in midtown I think people forget about some of originals. Tapa is one 🙂
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I have not been there..yet. Maybe we’ll hit it after going to the Comedy Spot on a Friday night!
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I first fell in love with anchovy-stuffed olives at Tapa….
-jennyfur
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This is my absolute favorite first date location. It ended in a marriage for me. 🙂
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That’s some first date, lady.
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Hey, can anyone tell me if Tapa is very expensive or what? Cuz i’ve never been but would like to check it out, if it fits my budget…
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I’d say $60 for a giant meal for two with drinks. I consider it cheap for what you get.
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Sounds like I need to get over there and check it out. Thanks!
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The last time I went there, I had one of the worst dining experiences I’ve ever had in Sacramento. The waitress repeatedly brought us the wrong thing, and didn’t even bring my dish out, by which time I had already nibbled on everyone else’s food. She did get me my order to go, and got us our checks (but forgot our one last request: boxes)…I was really irked because I then forgot to refrigerate my $20 plate of untouched food when I got home in a rush.
The owner nicely stepped in to help serve us but it was still appalling. But this was one bad experience I’ve had of several good ones, and you bring up a good point about the late night service, a rarity in Sacramento, and worth patronizing just for that. Also, the lunch time paella is a good deal…though I think overall, the food is just a little too pricey for what you get.
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Ok, getting off the topic a little, who can tell me where I can find really good soft serve around here, preferably near a light rail since I don’t have a car…
I am actually craving a frozen dipped banana…
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I totally agree with you. I was at Tapa’s last saturday and had a great time. I think that place doesnt nearly get the respect it deserves
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