It is our observation that Spanish restaurants are outnumbered by its Italian and French counterparts in Sydney. The disappearance of Spanish Quarter on Liverpool Street in Sydney CBD and the shutdown of Movida in Surry Hills reduce the Spanish dining scene to slim pickings. . That’s why we got excited about a spontaneous lunch at Bar Topa sandwiched between Ivy buildings. Its narrow layout instantly reminds us of tiny tapas bars we visited in Spain. Both drinks and food menu are written on the black board on the wall, next to whole legs of cured ham. Drinks are served in tiny glasses but this is not the kind of places where you come to get intoxicated.
This is my favourite merivale venue so far! It’s just like sitting in a typical tapa bar in Spain. Food is affordable and so tasty. Drinks go down extremely easily and you can sit their for hours enjoying the company of great friends. Staff also exceptional!
It’s the size of a bath, with only a handful of seats, but what Bar Topa lacks in size it makes up for in charm. Part of The Ivy Precinct, this tapas and pintxos bar draws on all the right cues from Spain, with a no-fuss small plate menu and pint-sized drinks list of Spanish wines.
Bar Topa is where you go for a snack and sip. Grab some jamon and olives from the counter display, order some croquettes and patatas bravas, and wash it back with a vino rosado. All awfully-good – and being part of the Merivale stable what else can you expect.
Lovely little spot in the CBD with good food and reasonable prices. We had 4 dishes to share, the mushrooms and pan Catalan were spectacular but the octopus was way too oily. While staff were nice they were on the phone a lot of the time, which was very noticeable considering we were sitting at the bar.
I love my Spanish tapas. This was a hark back to all my visits to Barcelona and Madrid. The food isn't the issue here. It's authentic enough and hits the mark (albeit 4 small pieces of prawns for $17 is dubious. Bill racks up quite quickly if you're starving). What was most unfortunate was the service, which was lack lustre and only showing the bare minimum of attentiveness. The host spent more time chatting with her friends rather than prioritising serving hot dishes off the pass or refilling water. The other waiter seemed overwhelmed, tired and stunned like a mullet. Overall, still a delightful experience, but it could be so much more. The delicious burnt cheesecake nearly made up for it.
When I think of Bar Topa, I think of the lovely smell of chilli oil, garlic, and parsley. As a tapas bar they've done a lot of things right, but I'm always happy to go back just for the food alone (say a quick lunch). It is true that the food can be a bit salty at times, but hey, I'd just ask for more bread.
What an amazing experience! We loved it so much and I can’t wait to return.
The food is amazing, the wine is amazing, the decorations are great, and the whole atmosphere makes you feel like you are in a little bar in Spain 😃
We’ll done guys!!
P.S. Food disappeared before had the time to take pictures 😂
The best Basque cheesecake I've had! The chorizo, chargrilled octopus, garlic prawns, peppers, steak sandwich were all delicious. The cocktails were very enjoyable. Place was vibrant and the staff very friendly.
Love it so much that we came back for two consecutive days. Great tapas and good lightnings / decos make an awesome atmosphere (does remind me of Barcelona). Place is a little small so you probably have to tuck in and sit either at the bar or behind (facing the wall).
Now to recos.... Grilled brocollini, peppers, prawns (a little small though), steak burgers, mushrooms, sausages are my favs. And remember to finish off with their classic cheesecake. It does not look much but it packs a punch.
Also shout-out to the lady at the bar who makes drinks all evening - we asked for your recommendation and they were all perfect. Too bad we can't come back on Tuesday as we are flying back but see you when we see you!
Tip: there is no need to give tip if you don't want to. Just press no when they pass you the credit card terminal.
Cute little bar that's an actual tapas bar - small serves of really lovely food, affordable (considering the location) and with an interesting drinks menu. Friendly service that's sometimes a bit overwhelmed when it gets busy. Highly recommend Bar Topa for unpretentious yet nice drinks and nibbles.
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