With an almost 100-item selection, Chef and owner Doug Usko has taken the philosophy that any food that can be prepared, can be prepared tapas-style.

“I think it’s kind of the way I like to dine – to taste and try different things,” says Usko. “It’s certainly not just the Spanish fare. Because of the location in Banner Elk NC, I wanted to broaden the appeal. That’s why there are so many different things on the menu at this Banner Elk Restaurant – from beef to lamb to pork to vegetarian to seafood. I can create and dabble and have fun with food”. And the customers are the beneficiaries of Usko’s creativity.

A sampling of the diverse menu includes escargot, sesame-seared tuna sashimi, saffron paella, mushroom ragout, sautéed squid steak, tempura lobster tail and a leek – and- gruyere flan. Or if you’re in the mood for something more basic, there are fish fingers, fried cheese ravioli, steamed clams, barbecue applewood bacon-wrapped shrimp, grits and cheese, shredded barbecue pork, black bean cake and grilled salmon.

“Having a broad range to choose from has allowed us to become very popular,” says Usko. “Our customers enjoy the opportunity to try different things without overloading”.