» Cova - Washington

This wine shop and tapas restaurant features accessible, hand-selected wines and an eclectic menu of New American and Latin dishes.

With a decidedly down-to-earth vibe, the folks at Cova make it easy to spend the day browsing through the well-stocked shelves, with more than 500 selections. Buy the whole bottle or sample by the glass or two-ounce taste. In the evenings, customers order from a menu of small and large tapas (raciones). Cold offerings include organic beef carpaccio and artisanal cheese plate. Braised oxtails with chipotle potato puree; seabass; and New Zealand lamb chops with a savory flan and pressed panini comprise the more substantial entrees.

The wine shop is open during the daytime, and offers cheese plates for sampling with wine. If you're looking for dinner, the kitchen opens at 5pm.

Not in the mood or wine? The menu features a handful of beers, as well.