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| - After being informed, quite literally at the last minute, that there was a media launch going on near me, I ran, ran and ran some more from my office to the other side of Port Credit.
My destination? Spice Lounge and Tapas, a mainstay in the area. With its Spanish tapas, plentiful drinks and dark, brooding atmosphere, it's no wonder why this place is seen as the venue of choice for lushes and hipsters across south Mississauga.
I spoke about them briefly during my review of the Mississauga Mac and Cheese Festival, where they had a tent and were serving penne-style mac-and-cheese with duck confit. There was nothing quite that extravagant at the event I attended, but the food was stellar all around.
A large plate of tenderloin(?) steak was served up alongside flatbread pizza, a tray of vegetables and plenty of wine. I also had the chance to try the croquettes, which my good friend Jake says are a particular highlight of this restaurant. I'm not sure if I'm as impressed by the food as everyone else was, but the lounge more than makes up for it in style.
There's almost always live music going on in here - my former boss used to play Spanish guitar on the weekends. Anywhere you sit is a choice spot, and the menus offer quite the range of tapas items and drinks. There's a lot to choose from, almost too much. It's a perfect date spot if you're in the village.
If I have any concerns, it's that the prices on average are a bit higher than I'd usually like to pay. Most items on the menu run $10 - 13, and the portion sizes are a bit smaller-than-normal. Regardless, if you're willing to pony up the dough for it, there's a lot of selection, including the Spice Meatballs, a personal favorite.
Spice is definitely one of the true hotspots in the village, and well worth a look if you want a different (and more cozy) tapas experience.
Recommended.
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