La Cha Cha

Tapas is most definitely one of my favourite meals. There’s no need for food envy, or awkwardly asking someone to share. You can try LOTS of dishes without too much commitment or judgement for having seven empty plates sitting in front of you.
La Cha Cha is one of the newer Tapas and Wine Bars to open in Cardiff Bay.
Once inside the décor makes you feel as though you’ve stepped into a wine cellar and with the help of a Spanish guitar playing in the background you almost instantly forget that your umbrella turned inside-​out a few seconds before entering.
My Menu Highlights:
Calamari served with Aioli: £6.95
Serrano Ham, Manchego Cheese with Mixed Bread and Oils: £11.95
Chorizo Rio Jana: £6.95
…they also have five different drink menus including Sparkling & Champagne, Rose and House Wine.
I’ll admit that a trip to La Cha Cha can be slightly expensive yet if you visit during the day you can get three Tapas dishes and a glass of Sangria for just £10.95!
PS — It’s far too dark in here to take pictures. Even a filter couldn’t save me! Visit their website and take a virtual tour of their restaurant and menu.

We arrived at La Cha Cha after searching for something apart from the usual chain restaurants which dominate Mermaid Quay.
Despite having no reservation on a busy Sunday evening (Monday was a public holiday), we were seated without having to wait, and given the wine and food menus.
The restaurant and bar have a proper «Spanish» feel, with wood panelling, wooden barrels and other wine related décor, without feeling cheesy or over the top.
The food was good, although not outstanding, but perfectly acceptable, and the portions of tapas a good size for sharing. The wine we picked (£18) was one of the cheaper items on the list, but was very good.
Service wasn’t quick, but we weren’t left waiting for too long for anything. It was also good to see all the staff were Spanish!
By the time we left, all the tables in the restaurant area were full, and the previously quiet bar was full of people drinking and possibly waiting for tables, so it must be quite popular.