Tour de Tapas, a Downtown La Mesa restaurant offering “Euro Small Plates & Sips” with Spanish, French, and Italian influence, opened its doors on Thursday, December 12. The concept from City Tacos founder Gerry Torres offers dinner service from 4:00 – 10:00 p.m. daily.
All but three of the dishes on the menu are less than $20.00, and selections include Pulpo con Chistorra (Spanish-style octopus), Patatas Bravas, Poulet Cordon Bleu, Gamberetti e Pinoli (sauteed shrimp), Salmon Burre Blanc, and Pesce Alla Livornese (sauteed rockfish). Other menu highlights are Filetto al Vino Rosso (filet mignon) and Costillas de Cordero (panko crusted grilled rock of lamb lollipops).
The wine list features more than 30 selections almost exclusively from Spain, France, and Italy. There are four offerings from California wineries, while sangria, draft beers, and coffee are also available.
“Outside of my native Mexico, I am most passionate about Southern Europe,” Torres said in a statement. “The flavors of tacos can only be outdone by the flavors inspired by those beautiful countries. Keeping the prices as low as possible in these times is especially important to me, too, and I hope everyone will find great value in what we have to offer. There’s a little something for everyone.”
Torres is originally from Mexico City, and he moved to San Diego in 1992. He has traveled extensively to Europe, including stops in Madrid, Paris, Bordeaux, the Trastevere neighborhood of Rome, and Emilia-Romagna.
Tour de Tapas also offers pasta dishes and Spanish paella, along with Soupe a L’oignon (tradition French onion soup), salads, and curated charcuterie. Desserts include Crepes Suzette, Crema Catalana (Spanish custard), and Mousse au Chocolat.
Torres plans to expand the menu in the coming months to include dishes like carpaccio, entrecôte, escargot, and gazpacho.
The restaurant is located at 8323 La Mesa Boulevard. It takes over the space previously occupied by Papalo BBQ, and it has a capacity of 55 guests.
