Ham, Paella, Seafood and Wine: Spanish Tapas Come To St. James

ST. JAMES, NY—A new Spanish tapas-style eatery has opened in St. James. Iberico Tapas y Vino took over the former Barbera Pasta e Vino on North Country Road, replacing the pasta with tapas, but keeping the "vino."

The owners of Iberico posted on Facebookthat they appreciated the face they were able to open the doors at such a difficult time.

"We’re so grateful to have opened this restaurant in current conditions (COVID, Supply shortage, worker shortage.) We have to thank Dennis Young and Lisa Cusamano of Pentimento who encouraged us and connections of eatMosaic who made it possible for us to move into this cozy space."

The restaurant, at 412 N. Country Rd., has a large selection of traditional Spanish small plates like shrimp, calamari, cod with garbanzo beans, Spanish meatballs and more. Paealla for two, cheese and meat platters and Iberico jamon, a cured "black foot" ham, round out the menu.