Step into a world of luxury art, an extraordinary atmosphere and a bespoke culinary experience.
La Parada Bar De Tapas first opened its doors in Bree Street, Cape Town’s hottest food strip, a tribute to the Spanish bars that bewitched Hemingway. Their bright lights and extraordinary energy have come to Umhlanga, illuminating the way for you. But what is a “tapas bar”? What makes it different from the eateries around it? Well, tapas are appetisers or snacks in Spanish cuisine, meaning “cover” or “lid”. The dishes were served with the drinks being balanced on top thus “covering” the drink! By combining the Spanish-themed food and décor complemented by the local tastes of Durban, La Parada has created something new. They are pushing the boundaries of what the culinary and hospitality industry offer patrons.
Be welcomed by the gracious staff as your eye catches the low-hanging lights and art adorning the interior. Cast in a soft golden glow, the space makes you feel as if you have crossed into a different time and dimension. It’s a tranquil atmosphere, time slows down, and it’s just you within the bubble of La Parada. The large glass doors bring sunlight into the room, giving life to the murals and art pieces scattered throughout. It’s not an exaggeration to say that every spot is a photo opportunity. You can genuinely take advantage of the gorgeous interior as the backdrop for a dash of artistic imagery to your social media profile. Leave the worries of life behind as you allow yourself to be whisked away well into the evening. The music carries your conversation, providing a background to chatter for hours and later, you might find yourself dancing the night away with live DJs at events!
Catering to tastes as diverse as those found in Umhlanga can be tricky. La Parada does this with such flair that it looks almost effortless. Your tastebuds and cravings are covered, from sushi to burgers and pasta dishes. Of course, the variety is vast when it comes to the tapas selection, featuring seafood, meat and vegetarian options. You’ll find your favourites amongst them and still be enticed to try something new. It’s a good kind of influence. Speaking of learning and experimenting, grab one of their signature cocktails. They offer a bespoke range of drinks just as varied as their spectrum of food options. It’s a journey moving away from the ordinary at each stop of your experience.
The party doesn’t start and certainly doesn’t stop on the ground floor. Slow it down at the Durrage Bar. Dress up and show up! Settle by the cosy fireplace with your inner circle on the comfortable couches as you take the night sip-by-sip accompanied by easy conversation. If you’re looking for a livelier atmosphere and some fresh air, then the Flamenco Lounge on the third floor is exactly what you need. Sit beneath the neon lights, grab your besties and let time fly into the good times. Or step outside in the daytime onto the terrace for a sun-kissed brunch, versatile for day or night outings!
Need your time to be more intimate? Good news, the lounges are available for hire to make your special occasions that much better.
With regular events brought to you by La Parada and a host of partners, you can never complain about having nowhere to wear that cute dress. Their interactive evening events will have you checking your calendars to fit the next one in. The recent first-ever gin pairing event was nothing short of phenomenal. Keep an eye out for the next event. You won’t want to miss out on these. The “FOMO” is real.
Changing up what a ‘night out’ means, La Parada is so much more than just another spot to grab a bite to eat and some drinks. It’s where friends, family and even colleagues come together to create memories.