Mompou: Tapas, Wine Bar, and Lounge

Friday night off. 

                  We decided to head into Newark for the Devil's vs. Blue Jackets game

                                                                  at the Prudential Center!

Mompou provided the perfect warm-up before the game.

This little hidden gem is located within walking distance

of Penn Station in the Ironbound District.

Enter Mompou and you're greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere.

This cool "log" feature wall is noticeable right when you walk inside:

They have exposed brick throughout the restaurant, a cool service station window concept, 

beautiful slate around the bar,

and what looks like will be an awesome outdoor area 

(once the warm weather returns). 

Music had a lounge-like vibe to it, fit the theme nicely,

and wasn't overpowering.

Gave it a speak-easy feel (which we love). 

Cozy atmosphere for a ladies' night; yet manly enough for a guys' night, too. 

Don't be misled by the wine bar sign outside…there's a wide variety of liquor to be found.

We're always looking for bars with a lot of whiskey and tequila to choose from;

and they certainly did not disappoint. 

In addition to the array of liquor, they have an impressive

craft beer selection on tap as well.

Kentucky Bourbon Ale was one of the craft beers featured that week.

We were upset when we first arrived because the wrong keg had been delivered.

Once corrected by the distributor, the friendly

bartender gave Gary a glass on the house. 

Brownie points!

We ordered four tapas; 

Tortilla Herminia: a quiche-like dish with potatoes, onions and spinach

 Pinchos de Camarones: prawn skewers and yummy roasted garlic 

Albondigas de Pollo: chicken meatballs in a homemade sauce

 and Txistorra: pork sausage with mushrooms and shrimp

Each beautifully plated dish was stacked on a 

sturdy, three-tiered iron display.

First bites were warm and delicious; kept us coming back for more.

Don't let the concept of tapas fool you; these four "little plates"

were surprisingly filling.

To check out these items and their full menu click here

The tortilla…too big to fit.

My sweet tooth (Gaby) always chimes in at the end when I think I'm too full to continue.

Couldn't resist ordering the Tres Leches cake; which the bartender

generously doused in Chambord. 

It was sinfully good. Rich and creamy.

We somehow managed to finish every last bite. 

Off to the Devil's game, full and satisfied. 

Too bad they lost. 

Grub Points: variety of liquor/food selections, inviting ambiance,

friendly staff, well-seasoned/cooked/presented food,

Timely, walking distance from Penn Station and Prudential Center, craft beer on tap,

clean, good date spot, sangria pitchers!

No Grub Points: no televisions (for all you sports lovers), 

tight table sections (be careful where you stretch your arms), not a huge bar (10 seats+). 

Needless to say; we'll be back. 

Address: 

77 Ferry Street, Newark, NJ 07105

Phone:

973-578-8114

@Mompou