Red Sky Tapas

I had been to this place for a Yelp event but never to thoroughly sample their assortment of tapas (small plates meant for sharing).  A Scoutmob for 50% off seemed like the perfect occasion to try a larger selection of their items.  

Let me start by saying this place is really cool.  It's found in an unassuming location in a strip mall; when entering, you'll notice there's a good amount of outdoor seating, and I was impressed by the hand sanitizer pump in the entry -- thanks!  The decor is dark, chic, and romantic, although I didn't really have trouble reading the menu, so it wasn't too dark, thankfully.  Now tapas bars aren't cheap (an item for 2 people, like 2 tacos, runs about $6-8), but then again, they aren't more expensive than food trucks.  (Side note: if you're the type of person that goes home hungry from buffets... tapas may not be for you.  Unless you have lots of money.)   We passed over the highly-raved calamari and lobster/corn dip (I already knew these were excellent) and tried the grilled romaine salad, fried green tomatoes, short rib tacos, tomatillo pork nachos, and flourless brownie for dessert.  Every single item was great.  The flavors were inventive and novel, which really made a difference for me.  I leave so many tapas places thinking "well that was enjoyable, but nothing new," which means I don't crave it again for awhile.  This place, though -- I already want to go back so I can try all the other items.  

The friendly manager stopped by twice, once to check on us, and another time to deliver our dessert.  I asked him some questions about the food, and he knew the items well.  The waitress was also very good and attentive, despite that she was the bartender at the time, too!  Overall, a good experience.

The tapas were good and drink pours were not stingy.  I remember the lobster mac & cheese was really good.  The atmosphere is a little strange for a piano bar.  If you are sitting in the bar area when the dueling pianos are playing, you can't hear them.  Nonetheless, great food and drinks.

I love this place, and the only reason that I am giving it 4 stars instead of 5 is that they forever changed their early bird special, and that seriously cut back our ability to visit and spend our money there.  The deal they had before was great, with half priced tapas, instead of the 20% off they have now.  My husband and I love to go there hungry and chow down.  The lobster corn  dip is a must, and we do not share that--have to get out own because it is so good.  We have enjoyed all the pizzas.  The calamari is excellent, and a good portion. The asparagus is great, and the plantains are so tasty, that we have tried to emulate them at home.  My husband really like the pork nachos (I do not eat mammal, so I am including his input).  The tres leches dessert is excellent too. Tasty tapas and drinks can really add up, so make sure to be aware of what you are getting.

They also have dueling pianos for entertainment.  the management is great, and you will likely get a visit from one of the owners during your visit, checking on your experience.  Also, this place, in case you are interested, seems Cougar-tastic.  We giggle about the roaming cougars catching their prey here.  So maybe that is one of the target audiences?