A former bike shop is now home to a small but perfectly formed tapas bar

PROVEDORE

In a quiet residential street, far away from the bustle of town is home to a very cool tapas bar. Provedore is a real hidden gem in Falmouth’s culinary crown. A genuine, vibrant neighbourhood cafe that reflects owners Bev and Tim Mackenzie’s passion for tasty Spanish and North African food - with a bit of Malaysian thrown into the mix.

In a tiny intimate room - that used to be a bike shop - the mood and décor is that of an arty, boho café. Which is one reason Mrs C felt so much at home. Though I had to plead with her not to wear her sombrero on the evening we visited.

Quirky, cosy with bare brick and oars adorning the walls – it’s the perfect place for breakfast, brunch or really great coffee. We opted to go for the evening tapas and sat in the small covered terrace at the rear. At £3.95 a glass, the Spanish house red was superb. But there was a brief moment of panic when Mrs C learned that they don’t serve fizz by the glass, but after a large gin and tonic her mood soon lifted. I chose a Beef Redang curry from the specials board. Not very tapas-like I know but it smelled and tasted delicious and was clearly cooked with love. At £11.95 it was worth every penny. Mrs C had a Parmigane Melezane which is layers of aubergine, mozzarella and tomato which she described as being a ‘rich smoky echo of rustic Italy.’ If you opt for the tapas menu you can eat very reasonably. There was a choice of feta and black bean filo parcels and salt cod croquettes, both at £6.50 looked great value. The service was quietly efficient but be prepared to wait for your food because everything is cooked from fresh.

Provedore describes itself as ‘a meeting and eating destination in the day serving interesting and tasty Spanish, North African food on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.’ But it’s more than that, Provedore is doing something brave and different in a very tight space. Yet somehow it works.

We’ve been for breakfast, brunch and dinner and really enjoy the food and laid back atmosphere. They don’t take bookings so get there early because it does get busy, and remember to take cash as they don’t accept credit cards.

The tapas train has been trundling along in the UK for some time but most of what is served-up wouldn’t see the light of day in Spain. However, most high streets would be happy to have a Provedore because their tapas is truly authentic but they don’t stop there – they are dipping into Malaysian and Italian food and making it really fun and interesting. I’m just happy Provedore isn’t on the high street. It’s far too good.

Provedore - 43 Trelawney Road Falmouth 01326 314888

www.provedore.co.uk