Of all the locations for a new Spanish tapas restaurant, why Southside Virginia?
“I really liked the area, bought a farm and decided to open a restaurant too,” says Francisco “Paco” Arrocha. Located at 306 Main Street in South Boston, it’s called Paco’s Restaurant & Lounge.
There’s no questioning his credentials for Spanish cooking. Arrocha operated or cooked in restaurants in Spain for years before coming to this country, opening his own in Miami in July 2000 and another in 2006. He sold those and came here with his wife, Miriabal Fragas, who helps at the restaurant.
So far the response has been quite good to many of his dishes, not normally served in Southside Virginia: Ceviche, cod fritters, piquillos peppers stuffed with beef, octopus and Spanish omelette and some traditional American favorites too.
Says Denise Hudson, “the bolinhos de bacalhau is reminiscent of those I have enjoyed in Spain and Portugal. Grilled octopus is off the chart and perfectly done. Mushrooms with garlic, pork cheeks braised to perfection, beautifully sliced jamon and more. “
Says Alejandra Martinez, “The food we tasted was all phenomenal. Can’t wait to go back.”
The spacious restaurant is full of light, with a long bar not part of the dining room. Spanish paintings adorn the bright walls. Pin lights are hung over each table.
Pickett spent a year in Spain as a college student and adores Spanish food. She kept in touch with Arrocha and got him to cater three parties at our bed &breakfast for her former classmates. The paellas he served were delicious. And the flan. Ahh! The group that studied in Spain said that his paella was the best they had ever had. I knew the restaurant would be a success.
Arrocha has brought in three chefs from the Andalusia section of Spain. The serving staff, though, is mostly local, including some high school students. The phone number is (434-471-7025).