Bar Vinazo: Brooklyn’s New Spanish Wine Bar Inviting Locals on a Flavorful Iberian Journey

A Taste of Spain Lands in Park Slope

Brooklyn’s Park Slope neighborhood has long been home to cozy date-night restaurants, welcoming wine bars, and internationally inspired eateries. Now, a new destination has joined the mix, one that promises to transport guests straight to Spain with every sip and bite. Bar Vinazo, the latest concept from the acclaimed duo Ilyssa Satter and Joe Campanale, officially opened its doors on May 4—and it’s already making waves in the local dining scene.

With two successful ventures already under their belt—Fausto and LaLou—the pair has built a reputation for turning neighborhood spots into beloved culinary destinations. Bar Vinazo is their third, and arguably most transportive, offering: a cozy Spanish wine bar tucked into a Seventh Avenue storefront, just blocks from their other establishments.

The Story Behind the Concept

Bar Vinazo is not simply another wine bar—it’s a thoughtfully crafted homage to the vibrant wine and food culture of Spain. After years of traveling through Iberian wine country, Campanale—who has built a name for himself as a wine expert and restaurateur—found himself increasingly drawn to the depth, variety, and soulfulness of Spanish wines.

This passion translated into the idea of creating a dedicated space to celebrate the lesser-known gems of Spain’s wine scene. Satter, known for her interior and experience-driven approach, saw an opportunity to shape a warm, inviting space where guests could slow down, savor bold flavors, and indulge in conversation over shared small plates.

Their collaboration has always centered around intimate, community-rooted restaurants. Bar Vinazo is no exception. It’s a place where personal passion meets public hospitality—where every bottle has a story and every dish is a sensory memory from Spain.

A Chef’s Culinary Philosophy: Simple Ingredients, Bold Flavor

The menu at Bar Vinazo may be compact, but it’s mighty in its ambition. Inspired by traditional Spanish tapas culture, the offerings lean heavily on quality sourcing and nuanced technique. Expect a focus on conservas—premium tinned seafood delicacies from Spain’s Galician coast—paired with crusty bread and artisan olive oil.

Seasonal vegetables shine in dishes that often rotate depending on market availability, while cured meats and cheeses provide a rustic counterpoint to the fresh fare. From tortilla Española with slow-cooked onions to marinated olives and anchovy-forward toasts, the dishes speak to a love of simplicity and precision.

Behind the scenes, the culinary team leans into authenticity while allowing room for modern interpretation. The result is a menu that’s not trying too hard to impress—it simply does, through quality, balance, and pure deliciousness.

The Wine List: An Ode to Spain’s Viticultural Diversity

What sets Bar Vinazo apart from the average wine bar is its singular devotion to Spanish wines—and the rare, often experimental bottles it features. Campanale, who has long championed natural and small-producer wines, treats the wine list like a living document. It’s a curated, constantly evolving reflection of his travels and relationships with winemakers across Spain.

Expect to see biodynamic reds from Rioja, crisp whites from Rías Baixas, and earthy orange wines that challenge expectations. There’s also a robust sherry program—ranging from bone-dry fino to nutty, complex oloroso—served in elegant stemware to highlight the nuances of each pour.

For those less familiar with Spanish wines, the team offers enthusiastic guidance without pretension. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a curious newcomer, you’ll leave having tasted something new—and probably wanting to come back for more.

Cocktails and Conversations

While the wine list is undoubtedly the star, Bar Vinazo’s cocktail menu offers its own quiet brilliance. Expect low-ABV creations inspired by Spanish apéritifs, such as vermouth-based spritzes, gin-tonic variations with Mediterranean botanicals, and playful sherry cocktails that dance between savory and sweet.

The cocktail list is short, intentional, and seasonally driven—designed not to compete with the wine, but to complement the overall experience. It’s perfect for those looking to ease into the evening or transition between bites with a refreshing sip.

Design That Feels Like a Spanish Hideaway

Bar Vinazo’s interior transports you before your first bite. With seating for just a few dozen, the space is intimate and atmospheric—earthy tones, wood-paneled walls, soft lighting, and Mediterranean-inspired tilework create a subtle homage to Spanish taverns without veering into kitsch.

The layout encourages lingering. A long marble-topped bar invites solo sippers and couples, while small tables beckon friends to order another round of tapas. The overall ambiance is both stylish and down-to-earth, echoing the couple’s philosophy of approachable sophistication.

A New Favorite in the Neighborhood

In a borough overflowing with dining options, it takes something special to stand out. Bar Vinazo does just that—by staying grounded in vision and elevated in execution. It’s not trying to be everything to everyone; instead, it offers a focused, passionate celebration of Spanish food and wine, presented with the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like a regular on your first visit.

From the first swirl of wine to the last spoonful of olive oil-soaked bread, Bar Vinazo captures the essence of what makes dining out so rewarding: connection, discovery, and pleasure. Whether you come for the wine, the tapas, or the vibe, you’re likely to leave already planning your return.

Final Thoughts: Why Bar Vinazo Is Worth the Visit

Bar Vinazo is more than a new addition to Park Slope—it’s a love letter to Spanish culture, carefully penned by two hospitality veterans who know their audience well. With its inviting atmosphere, thoughtful curation, and attention to culinary detail, the bar is poised to become a neighborhood mainstay.

Whether you’re popping in for a glass of rare sherry after work, planning a romantic date night, or seeking a weekend escape without leaving Brooklyn, Bar Vinazo welcomes you with open arms—and a wine list that just might change the way you think about Spanish vino.