Spanish Tapas & Wine Bar Sashays Into Little Italy

On the heels of last week’s saddening news about The Cheese Store’s impending shutter comes exciting word on what will become of the Kettner Boulevard storefront. In her farewell letter, co-founder Marci Flaster hinted that she would continue to be involved in the next concept, which Flaster has revealed will be a new Spanish tapas and wine bar called Bar Bodega.

In partnership with Ken Karlan, the intimate new eatery is inspired by the authentic tapas bars of Spain; renovation of the space will start on March 1 with a reopening scheduled for April. Chef David Lopez Gutierrez, who studied that the Culinary Art School in Tijuana and worked with Chad White at Comun and MIHO Catering Co.’s Ryan Studebaker, will be cooking up a lunch and dinner menu rooted in traditional Spanish tapas influenced by the flavors and ingredients of San Diego and Mexico. And those mourning the loss of The Cheese Store will be happy to know that cheese and charcuterie will continue to be available for purchase to take home.

As for The Cheese Store’s swan song, the shop originally intended to stay open until this Sunday, February 26, but it’s looking like the final curtain may be coming sooner. Flaster tells us that their stock is running low so today might be your last chance to snag 50 percent off all remaining inventory.