Tabare Restaurant

The exotic sounding Tabare is a Uruguayan restaurant in the Williamsburgh neighborhood of Brooklyn. Run by young expatriates from Uruguay itself, the place dishes out authentic fare to guests expecting something out of the usual. In fact, the ambience and décor are the first tings that may strike a visitor as unusual in the middle of Brooklyn. Reminiscent of a quaint ocean-front joint, the place is closed in with unevenly textured wooden walls, and it has a narrow outdoor alcove at the back, which houses a tropical garden. Old bottles and antique pictures, seemingly acquired from a flea market, complete the décor. Don’t be surprised if you feel like you will step out of the place and straight on to the beach!

The food has got mixed reviews, but that could be because people go in with different expectations. This is not the place to go to for a classy fine dining experience. The atmosphere is extremely casual, and the food is simplistically presented and has a home-cooked feel about it. One of the more popular dishes here is the chivito completo – a distinctively Uruguayan sandwich consisting of bacon, mozzarella, sliced beef tenderloin and a fried egg. The mussels, empanadas and spinach ravioli are popular choices too. There are many dishes that have a distinct Italian influence, and that is natural considering that Uruguay is home to a lot of Italian immigrants. One such dish is a chicken cutlet preparation, topped off with a tomato sauce, ham and mozzarella. There is not much option for dessert, but the flan that is served here is worth trying.

The best part of Tabare is, undoubtedly its service. It is so exceptional that it has been especially commended by virtually everyone who has eaten here and cared to leave a review. The family who runs the place treat their customers no less than personal guests. However, in spite of their extreme care and friendliness, they don’t make diners feel uncomfortable with over-attention. It’s a fine balance! Since the place hasn’t received a liquor license yet, you can bring your own drinks and they will serve them for you. In all, with the attentive and friendly service and casual feel, it’s the perfect place to hang out with friends for a couple of hours, and that’s exactly what a lot of people do here.

It’s heartening to know that at the end of all that time you spend here, you won’t find a gaping hole in your pocket. The average cost of a meal for two ranges between $50 – $75. Bear in mind, though, that they only accept cash.

221 South 1st Street

Brooklyn, NY 11211
Neighborhood: Williamsburg – South Side

(347) 335-0187

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