First look: Eros World Tapas Bar

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It's nice to have a job that comes with a few perks. MMX had the opportunity to take advantage of one of them when we were invited to the tasting party event at the newly opened Eros World Tapas Bar. Located in the well-known building that previously housed the Piebar, this unique structure itself was the first inkling that this could be a very special new venue in Atlanta. So, with a child-like exuberance, the MMX team, along with more than one hundred other curious patrons, climbed aboard the spaceship and went for a ride.

We were treated to a vast array of the culinary choices that Eros offers from around the world, tapas style. We also had the opportunity to chat with the owners themselves to get a glimpse of what Atlanta can expect from this unique restaurant, lounge, bar and club. That's right, Eros offers it all under one big circular roof, as well as on a beautiful covered patio. So, step inside Eros and see if this trip around the world is just what you need.

The concept: Eros World Tapas Bar was created by George Karameros and Nikitas PanagoPoulos. They are world travelers who wanted to bring their experience of world cuisine, entertainment and attitude to the diverse Atlanta market. With culinary delights ranging from Japan, India, Greece, Italy, Spain, Madagascar, the Caribbean and many others, to the atmosphere and vibe of the club-like bar and patio, there will be plenty of dining, dancing, drinking and music to go around for all. There certainly is something for everyone here. The hard part is choosing where to begin. Maybe just start with a cocktail and move on from there.

The atmosphere: Obviously, the first thing you will notice is the retro-spaceship shape of the venue as you walk up the long pathway to the front door. You almost expect the doors to "swoosh" open and to be greeted by a tall, spindly creature. No worries though, you're safe. Once inside, the round shape actually gives the restaurant and bar a unique open feeling, almost as though you are sharing the evening with a large group of family and friends. The colors are very subtle, mostly whites and creams with a slight pastel green accent. It's similar to a "Miami Vice" episode. Yet, not in a cheesy '80s way, more classy, clean and understated.

Along the circumference of the restaurant are the tables and booths that have a mixture of chair and high back booth seating. The bar,  has comfortable stools that are equally as nice to sit and enjoy a cocktail or tapas. If so inclined, you can venture to the back end of the bar and watch the chef prepare the tapas in the open kitchen. At night, things heat up on the large covered patio with an assortment of  music by local DJs that will have you dancing under the stars into the wee hours. Dancing starts at 10 p.m. Wed.-Sat. but you can still enjoy the romantic atmosphere at the many lounge areas located on the patio.

The drinks: Eros offers up a full bar to cater to your exotic drink needs and compliment your food choices. The wine list mirrors the food selection, consisting of wine from around the world. There is also a champagne list and a few imported beers like Peroni, Guinness, Corona and Heinekin, plus the local brew Sweetwater 420 and a few domestic brands sprinkled in for good measure. The wine runs between $6-$10 per glass and $24-$38 per bottle.

The food: If you have not figured it out by now, this is a tapas bar that offers selections from around the world. Our visit started out with the Eros salad followed by a scrumptious traditional Greek salad. (pictured above) The remaining courses brought crispy fried calamari, Spanish potatoes, green beans tempura, bang bang shrimp and a chicken kabob. Some of the more exotic plates we tasted were the ceviche octopus and the chorizo lollipop which consisted of dates, stuffed with bleu cheese and wrapped with bacon. The food was delicious and the assortment of choices is almost overwhelming. They may need to start a program similar to the beer bar promotions where you win a plaque at the bar when you actually get through tasting the entire menu. Hey, not a bad idea.