Head to Rockville Town Square for traditional tapas and creative cocktails.
Fancy a nice, leisurely tapas brunch but don't have the time for a trip to Madrid? All the traditional Spanish favorites are at El Mercat Bar de Tapas. This quaint eatery serves delicious small plates and hosts fantastic flamenco special events.
- ADDRESS: 101 Gibbs Street, Unit C in Rockville, MD
- PHONE: (240) 403-7436
- WEBSITE: El Mercat Bar de Tapas
- PARKING: Hourly street parking, nearby parking garages
The restaurant faces Middle Street and is conveniently situated between three parking garages. The first two hours are free at Rockville Town Square, and ample street parking is nearby. If it's crowded when you go, circle the block and park behind the Town Square garages.
Tapas are best when shared around the table, so wear your stretchy pants and be ready to graze. Plan on 2 to 3 dishes per person, and just crowd everything in the middle of the table. Here are some of the things we had for Sunday brunch:
Classic Gambas al Ajillo were prepared in a sizzling, garlic-spiked oil and served with thick slices of crusty bread. Crispy fried calamari were perfect; you may want to get two orders.
Try the Chicken and Waffles if you want something more substantial. This decidedly American dish is presented with truffle-spiked honey butter and cornichons for a unique combination of flavors. You can also get a Barcelona Burger dressed in red wine caramelized onions, blue cheese, and shishito peppers. Yum!
Don't worry if you're in the mood for something lighter. There is plenty on the menu for vegetarians, too. Swirl some crusty bread in Escalivada, creamy labneh with roasted vegetables, and savor the simple Pan con Tomate. Patatas Bravas with tangy garlic aioli is welcome to any tapas spread.
