The culinary landscape of Little Italy is about to embrace the flavors of Spain with the upcoming debut of Barra Oliba, a new spot for wine enthusiasts and tapas lovers, opening tomorrow. Tucked neatly along Kettner Boulevard, the restaurant promises a cozy yet chic interior complemented by additional sidewalk tables and a streetside parklet, expanding the ambiance from within to the vibrant street outside.
Barra Oliba is effervescent with its commitment to environmental consciousness, brandishing a kitchen devoid of fossil fuels by utilizing 100-percent electric appliances for a greener footprint, and they are preparing to serve an abundance of sustainable wines, primarily sourced from Spain and selected French regions, each selected for their adherence to sustainable practices. The wine list and sangria and caña—the Spanish term for a small glass of beer—complete the drink menu. Sustenance-wise, a selection of charcuterie, including Jamon Iberico and a novel approach to crudo and tartare with dry-aged fish such as kampachi and bluefin tuna, are set to entice patrons, as per their preview on Eater San Diego.
Further burnishing this gastronomic jewel is the restaurant's commitment to quality extends to its menu, where local, organic ingredients are favored, and harmful oils are shunned in favor of extra-virgin olive oil and traditional animal fats. The restaurant prides itself on its dedication to easily digestible fare that doesn't compromise on flavor, embracing Mediterranean basics like Spanish rice dishes and infusing Japanese techniques into their seafood preparation, details provided by the restaurant's website.
While initially offering only dinner service, Barra Oliba doesn't intend to rest on its laurels. Casillas mentioned plans to expand into weekend lunch to continue developing more dining experiences in San Diego under their newly-formed Oliba Group. Located at 1980 Kettner Blvd #30, the restaurant will open its doors from Wednesday to Sunday, starting at 4 p.m. through to 10 p.m., each week, offering a slice of Spanish charm right in the heart of Little Italy.
