(This story is sponsored by España Restaurant.)

There are many reasons why people love to visit the West End—the neighbourhood is known for its shopping, eye-catching public art installations, and selection of restaurants. It’s really the perfect place for those eager to indulge in a diverse selection of mouthwatering cuisines.

In this year’s Golden Plates Awards, voted on by readers of the Straight, España Restaurant won the impressive title of “Best Restaurant in the West End” for the fifth year in a row. The intimate tapas bar (at 1118 Denman Street) knows exactly how to turn fresh, locally sourced ingredients into tasty Spanish small plates.

Patatas Bravas, Sobrasada Chorizo on Toast, Galician Style Grilled Squid, Roasted Spiced Eggplant, and a daily Paella special are just a few of the popular dishes created by Takahiro Sato, chef at España Restaurant.

In addition to tapas, guests can enjoy a selection of Spanish charcuterie like Jamon Iberico, chorizo, and serrano ham that’s been aged for 12 months. And because no charcuterie board is complete without cheese, España also offers plenty of imported Spanish cheeses, like Manchego and Payoyo.

If there’s still some room in your belly after devouring dozens of tapas, there are two delicious, must-try postres (desserts) on the menu. Guests can choose between the Vegan Chocolate Mousse and the Hand Rolled Churros, which are served with a side of Rich Hot Chocolate or Dulce De Leche and Housemade Yoghurt. Ordering one of each will save you from the incredibly difficult decision.

When it comes to sipping, there’s a beverage for everyone—it’s drink menu highlights Spanish wines & sherries, craft cocktails, beer, Basque cider, and of course, Cava (Spanish bubbly).

At the end of June, on every Friday and Saturday at 11 p.m., España Restaurant will transform itself into a cocktail lounge and wine bar—called Px—that’ll be open late into the evening. It’s named after Pedro Ximenez, a sweet style of sherry that’s traditionally served after dinner. Px will feature live music or a DJ.

Visiting Px after dinner for a tasty cocktail or a glass of wine is a great way to end your Friday or Saturday night. The cocktail lounge and wine bar will be open on weekends from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. To make your reservation, visit www.espanarestaurant.ca.

España Restaurant would like to take this opportunity to recognize the very sad passing of one of its most loved and valuable employees. Mark Egger passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, June 9, at the age of 34. It’s safe to say that the restaurant would not exist today if it weren’t for him. He will be greatly missed. Details of a service will be posted on España Restaurant’s Instagram.