After travelling to and working in Spain numerous times over the past 25 years, Terry Holliday finally bit the bullet and jumped headfirst into his dream of opening a dedicated paella bar in his hometown – one that imbued his love of the flavours, aromas and atmosphere of Spanish tapas bars. Situated in the bright and airy space on Melbourne Street that was once occupied by Granada Cafe and Tapas Bar, Socarrat Paella Bar has spruced up the existing fixtures to create a fresh and exciting feel. Support pillars have been painted with eye-catching murals while the exposed brick walls now boast brightly coloured mandalas. Patrons can opt to dine at group benches or an intimate table seating, recline into comfy leather couches or pull up a stool at the lengthy cantilevered bar for a drink and a bite.

Soccarat offers a selection of seven paellas that come in servings suitable for two to three eaters or four to five. Classic options such as seafood medley, chicken and chorizo and vegetarian paella are joined by unique choices such as arroz negro (paella with squid ink, calamari and prawns), paella de carne (meat lovers paella with ribs) and the fideuà (seafood paella made with pasta). Socarrat also has a curated tapas selection that includes garlic prawns, cured Spanish ibérico ham and paella croquettes served with alioli. The bar stocks a host of Spanish wines, including Iberian reds and whites, pink rosados, sweet whites, dry fortified wines, sparkling cava and sweet sherries. Spanish beers are also on offer with brews available from Estrella, Alhambra, Ambar Especial and Mahou, as well as a neat selection of cocktails.

For more contact details and opening hours, head to the Stumble Guide.