is a comfy, globally inspired cafe with a personality all its own. We're just five minutes from downtown San Antonio. Opened in 2000, the name and vibe are inspired by the two feisty and passionate Carmens of Bizet's 19th century opera and Otto Preminger's 20th century musical along with Hollywood's spunky, flirty Carmen Miranda.

Can you say "tapas" not topless? It took us a few years to convince people we were not of the T&A persuasion, but a fun place where you could even bring your abuelita (grandmother). Now that tapas,

a.k.a. small plates, have become the sexy nomenclature for appetizers at most wine bars, we don't get the unsteady looks anymore. Tapas, for us, are more about the culture than the portion size. The culture of gathering with friends and family or perhaps sitting really close to someone you don't know and you get to know them in an environment where food & music is an adventure and life just feels good.

Whether with a group or alone, whether you live in San Antonio or you are visiting from places near and far, Carmens de la Calle will make you feel like you have discovered someplace special you'll want to share with others. We'll be sure to have plenty of "tapas" and our famous sangria.

See you soon,

Paula Sullivan/Owner