Keeping this post under wraps has been pretty difficult: not that there is anything secretive about it, after all you were aware of the Bar 44 Westgate launch a few weeks ago, yet we have been wanting to tell you about this place for a little while and other content kept on annoyingly getting in the way. But no, today, the time has finally arrived to tell you all about this little Tapas joint. After all, what better time for a restaurant recommendation than midweek when you’re just starting to plan out your weekend?
Bar 44 may look unsuspecting from the outside yet on opening its doors, you walk into a sort of Spanish fiesta complete with gorgeously tiled walls and one hell of a bar (which unfortunately, the picture below doesn’t do justice!).
Take a seat sharpish and order their Orange, Elderflower and Rose Water Gin and Tonic while you look through the menu – you won’t regret it.
Then it’s time to order. You can follow the advice of the knowledgeable and friendly waiters (who are only too happy to converse in Spanish when asked!) or simply go where your heart takes you: ours lead to expertly cut Serrano, tortilla, delicious melt – in – your – mouth croquetas and Zamarano Curado, all accompanied by their gorgeous selection of bread to dip and share.
All washed down with more G&Ts, a good old gossip and that infectious laughter that comes with good friends and good food. This is food made to try out together, share and excitedly discuss with the waiters as they come to collect your completely empty plates.
The meal itself is affordable and ideal both as a little pre theatre snack or even a full blown feast depending on how much you are willing to order. Did we mention they also offer a takeaway service? An absolute winner making it perhaps unsurprising that their Westgate branch is their third after Penarth and Cowbridge.
You can risk a walk in if you don’t mind being seated at the bar (which is our favourite spot for people watching anyway) but do book for the comfier booths or if you are visiting with a larger group.
Go if you need a holiday to Spain or if you are suffering the blues from said holiday: take your friends, impress your parents or even a date (it takes food orders until 23:30 on Fridays and Saturdays, perfect after the cinema or a romantic walk).
Find them here and tweet us if you decide to go – after all, Miss Squiggles herself looks pretty happy after her visit. (wearing Zara top and black blazer, plenty of similar options on Asos, extra points if you can get away with stealing your boyfriend’s).
The Squiggles Team
