Alas, the tasty plates (not so tiny, either) at Jazz’d Tapas Bar are not free, nor is there a wide selection of sherries or even of Spanish wines in general. But it’s a lovely bar, with a knowledgeable bartender, and the tapas are delicioso! With nearly 40 choices (including soups and salads) on the menu, there is definitely something for everyone.

It’s easy to drop in here for a drink and an appetizer before heading else where, or to settle in and fashion yourself a full dinner of two or three of the tapas plates, plus soup and salad and perhaps a dessert. It’s nice to go with several people so everyone can sample that many more dishes.

I tried the Five Onion Soup, a nice version of French Onion, although less aromatic than I’d hoped. The same timidity with flavor made the Garlic Escargot, served on top of Bruschetta, a bit less pungently garlicy than I’d have preferred.

But the Chorizo Empanadas, filled with chorizo sausage, onion, green olives, red potatoes and served with a cilantro lite cream were wonderfully seasoned and delicious. As were the Shrimp Fritters and the Crab Cakes, which were served with a delightful shrimp bourbon sauce!

The Macadamia Nut Crusted Ahi tuna, pan seared and served medium rare with a lovely chutney is another big winner in the tapas rounds. If all the salads are as fresh and tasty as the Jazz’d Spring Mix Salad, as I imagine they are, all who order them should be happy.

Dessert specials change daily, and I didn’t get around to trying any of them, but I’m told they often have a marvelous Irish Crème Pie, which certainly sounds enticing.

Questions? Comments? Email Cima.

Jazz’d Tapas Bar
52 Barnard St.
Tel: 236-7777
Open Daily 4 pm till 10 pm
(Till midnight on Fri. and Sat.)
Full Bar
Tapas Plates: $5 to $9.50;
(Paella for two: $38)