La Tasca, which has a large outdoor seating area, is a British-based chain that has five locations in the Washington-Baltimore area. Inside, the restaurant plays off the colors of Spain, with terra cotta tile floors and walls in deep gold, terra cotta and a fiery orange-red. The menu is primarily tapas -- small Spanish-style appetizers that can be combined for a full meal or eaten individually. There are several paella selections, all of which must be ordered for at least two people. Although the setting is colorful and festive, the tapas I tried won't draw me back soon. The serrano ham was dried and leathery, the marinated anchovies were rubbery, and the chicken croquettes had no taste of chicken. --Nancy Lewis (June 28, 2007)
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