Tasca Madrid: A New Spanish Culinary Gem in St. Paul

Lovers of Spanish cuisine and culture, rejoice! The vibrant culinary scene in St. Paul is about to get a delightful addition with the upcoming opening of Tasca Madrid. Nestled at the corner of Selby and Western avenues, this full-service Spanish restaurant is taking over the former Handsome Hog space. Alongside it, the San Román Bakery is already delighting patrons with its array of baked goods and Spanish treats.

A Personal Journey

At the helm of Tasca Madrid is owner Alberto Blanco, who, while not originally from Spain—having grown up in Guatemala—has deep familial ties to the country through his Spanish grandfather. His extensive travels in Spain have fueled his passion for its rich culinary traditions. Blanco’s journey into the restaurant world has been anything but conventional, shaped by personal loss and a quest for authenticity in hospitality.

A Culinary Vision

Tasca Madrid promises an impressive menu featuring around 50 different types of tapas, the small dishes that are a staple of Spanish dining. Guests can expect a variety of flavors, with options ranging from seared meats and fish cooked on a flat-top grill to the iconic paella, which Blanco hopes to prepare outdoors on the restaurant’s inviting patio.

Blanco emphasizes that Tasca Madrid aims to offer more than just food; it’s about creating an authentic Spanish dining experience. “It’s more about the way it’s done,” he explains, highlighting his commitment to a genuine approach that honors the traditions of Spanish cuisine.

A Rich Culinary Background

Blanco’s hospitality experience is extensive and varied. He has worked alongside renowned Twin Cities chefs like Alex Roberts, Stewart Woodman, and Hector Ruiz. His previous venture, a restaurant called Angeline in Antigua, Guatemala, garnered attention from major publications, including the New York Times. However, the pandemic forced him to reevaluate his path, leading to a transformative experience working on a biodynamic farm in Washington state.

This time spent in nature not only provided physical and emotional healing but also prepared him for his return to the restaurant industry. “It was rewarding, physically and emotionally. It saved me,” he reflects.

A New Approach to Hospitality

Blanco’s vision for Tasca Madrid extends beyond the menu. He aims to foster a sense of community among staff, referring to them as “misfits” who seek a different kind of hospitality experience—one that feels more like a family. This philosophy is reflected in the restaurant’s kitchen dynamics, which will prioritize equality over hierarchy, allowing for a more collaborative environment.

The Joy of Preparation

For Blanco, the joy of cooking lies in the preparation. He appreciates the camaraderie that comes from chopping ingredients and sharing stories with coworkers. “Prep is the happiest cooking there is,” he says, emphasizing the social aspect of kitchen work. This approach not only enhances the dining experience but also allows for a more relaxed atmosphere in the kitchen.

A Taste of Spain

In addition to the diverse tapas menu, Tasca Madrid will feature a curated sherry program and even make its own vermouth—a nod to the Spanish tradition of pairing drinks with small bites. When guests order a glass of sherry or vermouth, they can expect a complimentary tapa, embodying the Spanish ethos of enjoying food and drink together.

Affordability is also a key focus, with small tapas starting at just $5. Blanco envisions a space where patrons feel comfortable visiting multiple times a week, rather than just for special occasions. “In America, we shop; in Spain, they eat. It’s a sport,” he quips, highlighting the cultural differences in dining habits.

Sweet Treats from San Román Bakery

Desserts at Tasca Madrid will be crafted by Oscar Yoc Garcia, Blanco’s husband, who currently operates San Román Bakery. The bakery offers a delightful selection of pastries, including Basque cheesecake, tarta de nata, and tarta de Santiago—a gluten-free almond cake. Guests can also enjoy breads, bocadillos (Spanish sandwiches), savory Galician empanadas, and Spanish tortillas.

Anticipation for Opening Day

Tasca Madrid is currently in the process of obtaining a liquor license, with hopes of welcoming customers by mid-July. The bakery operates daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., while Tasca Madrid plans to serve patrons from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Tasca Madrid/San Román Bakery
173 N. Western Ave., St. Paul
952-214-4884
Visit Tasca Madrid

With its authentic approach to Spanish cuisine and a commitment to community, Tasca Madrid is set to become a beloved destination for food lovers in St. Paul.