Spanish Bistro Barro Oliba Is Opening in Little Italy | Eater San Diego

"Announced to replace La Taqueria Tijuana at the base of the Instrata Apartments building on Kettner Boulevard, Barra Oliba conveys traditional Spanish cuisine while bringing attention to distinct Basque, Galician, and Catalan dishes. Backed by Eduardo Bustamante (of Crudo Cevicheria & Oyster Bar) and Ernesto Casillas (a founding partner of Zibaris Hospitality Group, behind Mantequilla, Ziba Mediterráneo, and Saketori-ya), the spot features a long bar and exposed kitchen and even plans to incorporate Japanese techniques into how chefs prepare and present fresh, local seafood. The menu ranges from tapas to larger plates like paella and arroz meloso, with tapas offerings such as patatas bravas, a curated selection of pintxos, traditional tortilla, and gambas al ajillo; you’ll also find crudos from the raw bar and mains like an Iberian pork chop with romesco and Gallegan-style octopus with steamed potatoes. Everything is designed to pair with a Spain-spanning wine list from Rioja to Ribera del Duero and Priorat, and the vibey dining room—opened in mid-November—features rich red banquette tables parallel to a marble-topped bar. Don’t miss the Basque cheesecake or olive oil ice cream for dessert." - Candice Woo