After closing its doors on March 16 amidst the COVID-19 crisis, Vancouver’s Como Taperia announced this week that they will be reopening for dine-in services--with a slight twist--on May 28. 

In order to ensure a safe environment for both guests and employees, Como Taperia has decided to relaunch as a temporary pop-up to provide patrons with prepared tapas, conservas, wine, and cocktails, along with a marketplace that specializes in Spanish ingredients and cuisine. 

Launching under the name Como Chico, the Spanish-inspired pop-up will feature tapas such as bocadillos, cold octopus salad, boquerones, and olives. Orders will be taken counter service-style, and guests can opt to dine inside the restaurant, on the newly created outdoor seated and stand-up patios, or can take their order to go. 

Guests of the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood pop-up will also be able to shop at Como’s adjoining marketplace, Como Mercado, for items like premium Spanish olive oil, piquillo peppers, and Spanish rice.

“The current regulations make it challenging for us to operate Como Taperia as we know it, but we are here to continue bringing a piece of Spain to everyone in Vancouver,” says Shaun Layton, co-owner of Como Taperia. “Como Chico is inspired by our many trips to mercados in Barcelona, Madrid, and all over Spain. One-stop shop, eat, and drink establishments are very popular there where there is no operating kitchen for hot food. By transitioning this way, it allows us to take all the necessary measures to ensure our staff and guests’ safety. And, when able, we definitely want to return as Como Taperia!”

Como Chico will be open Wednesday to Sunday, from 12 to 7 p.m. Guests can also continue to pre-order Como2Go for pick-up online.