We enjoyed our dinner at Bodega this past weekend. The food was great and excellent service.

It's taken us 21 months to finally try this place - and it's well worth the wait! Envision the ambiance of an intimate Cheers bar: cozy, wood and brick decor with soft lighting. Super nice location in the heart of downtown Wake Forest, Bodega is located partially below street level on White Street, sorta catty-corner from the CVS by the viaduct. Wonderful selection of tasty appetizers, something for practically any preference. A to-die-for eclectic wine list and yummy bar drinks - my margarita el pastor was YUM. Other Yelpers have posted good menu pics & pricing, check em out. We were luckily able to snag the last open table when we arrived, so the rapidity of friendly service and serving of our 6 or 8 selections was amazing. It was truly enjoyable, a definite go-to for pre- or post-Renaissance shows or bowling, a short walk away. As is my custom, I've attached a few pics of the food and atmosphere. Go see for yourself, and let us know your thoughts - enjoy‼ read more

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Great service! pretentious conversations fill the air, overpriced appetizers -table lamps are from a Holiday Inn auction -shrimp dish nicely slathered in Frank's Red Sweet Hot Sauce read more

Went directly to this restaurant after almost a 6 hour car ride. We got the aranchini, gnocchi, Burratatouille, and a few other things that aren't pictured! Drinks came out fast and were strong. Food also came out fast and servers were super nice and helpful. I liked the darkness of the restaurant and the cute little lamps. Would go again :) read more

Bodega Tapas & Wine - Phone did not eat first - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Wake Forest, North Carolina

We indulged in five of their savory dishes between the two of us. We chose the crispy potatoes, Brussels sprouts, seared tuna, gnocchi, and the shrimp. The dishes offered a unique flavor amongst the many different dishes. An ample serving of each dish was plenty for the two of us to enjoy multiple helpings. The ambiance was cook and relaxing with a dark tone throughout. Such a quaint local restaurant in the heart of downtown Wake Forest. read more

Bodega Tapas & Wine is located in Downtown Wake Forest. It is a smaller restaurant but they made sure to spread the people around so we were not close to other tables. The noise level was good but I could see it getting noisy when there is a full house. The service was great, and everyone was friendly. The menu is mostly tapas and a few plates. I got a salad and shrimp tapa. I enjoyed both but wished I added the shrimp on top of the salad. I look to explore more of the menu on future visits. read more

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I've heard about this place and checked out the reviews. Cute place inside and I love the brick building. I enjoyed a sangria and my husband had a blackberry bourbon smash cocktail. The Tapas we "ok". I didn't have anything that was a stand out dish. We tried Brussel sprouts, Peruvian chicken, Arancini (street corn fritters), seared spiced tuna, empanada and gnocchi. The tuna and arancini were the best along with the drinks. The service was ok read more

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I saw the good reviews and was really excited about this place. However once we got the first round of dishes I started to get more and more disappointed. I've been to many small plates restaurants before so I expected smaller, pricy portions but the ratio of food to price was kind of insulting. The food itself was pretty average outside of a couple plates (the empanada, arancini, broccolini really stand out). One meal was a $10 wagyu empanada, but we only got one tiny empanada which was too small to share and doesn't come precut. We also ordered a sausage meal, which was 90% bread with maybe half skinny cut up sausage placed on top. We also got desert and the pie tasted store bought and was cold, like straight out of the fridge cold. We got about 2.5 plates per person (they recommended 2-3 per person) and left starving. We actually went to a fast food restaurant afterwards because it didn't make sense to keep paying more for food that wasn't great. I don't think the portions or quality justify the price. read more

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So, there was a special dinner offered ...$69 per person. Well, knowing the owner Serge Falcoz-vigne and his excellent skills I thought what a nice way to celebrate Valentines Day with my husband. WOW what an understatement! We picked the house Chardonay from the wine list, light and smooth. Each table was given a charcuterie plate with Serrano, Saucisson, Homemade Terrine, Machego cheese, Bodega Spiced Goat Cheese, Mahone and two sweet jams/paste, course mustard and small pickles accompanied by crisp bread rounds (for me as I am GF I had crackers and the bread was also served in a separate bowl, to keep things safe.) That was the beininning! Next we had Hot Crab dip along with more cracker or bread to share. BUT IT WENT ON! And got even better! Burratouille, a medium sized burrata served on warm Provencale Ratatouille with a savory granola. OMG the ratatouille was delishous but I was eating modestly as there was still a main and dessert still to come! My husband was eating right out of the bowl he liked it so much. Now he isn't a picky eater but to see him rave about how much he likes something is an occurance! Originally we planned on getting one of each of the mains offered but we ended up with both getting the Scallop Stuffed Salmon. (I would LOVE to see this on the menu more often!) The scallops were maybe minced or mousse? It didn't matter because the dish was Faboulous! served with a Saffron Beurre Blanc, mashed potato and grilled broccoli. Now I like my potatoes but between everything that went ahead and the wonderful salmon dish and the grilled broccoli! I only took a few bites of those creamy mashed potatoes. We ordered decafe (yeah we are older and caffine will now keep us up) and my husband had the Brown Butter Pecan and Pear Pie (I think this is on the regular menue and boy oh boy it didn't last long once he got his fork into it! The pie was plated on the White chocolate, amaretto whipped tahini-carmel sauce. Unfortunately due to my dietary restritions I couldn't even taste a small nibble ... if I had the chance LOL it was gone that fast. I had orded the Mousse au Chocolat. I hadn't looked too closely at the full description but I have enjoyed the creme brulee several times so went for something different ... I had to forego the cigar cookie but the mousse was lovely with an espresso foam. AND because I was so full from all the delisious food I could only enjoy a few bites, so Nick our server offered to box it for me to enjoy later. So, THIS dinner was one of the best we have enjoyed. The food is fantastic, the service was excellent and all the tables were dressed with a small light, rose petals and set for 2 -- but I am sure if you came in a group they would have made accomodations. In the future if you happen to see a special dinner featured, I would say YES! Or even a nice dinner out with you friends, partner or family; you will not be disappointed. Thank you Serge for once again giving us a memorable dining experience! read more

We loved the food. Sitting on the sidewalk outside was only ok as it is really a sidewalk with people walking by. It was really a little loud inside that made it a bit difficult to talk. Overall will go back again for the food. read more

food & service went well. background music would be a nice touch. Disappointed in Red wine selection in NC overall. cheese plate with almonds & olives a glass of Red blend, then glass of Sangria $73 with tip for one. read more

Bodega Tapas & Wine - cheese board - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Wake Forest, North Carolina

Such a wonderful dining experience, my MIL and I truly enjoyed ourselves. The food was fantastic and the server was very attentive. It was a bit loud but business was popping and it was Thursday evening so it was expected. read more

Bodega Tapas & Wine - Grilled broccoli kimchi vinaigrette and MIL. - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Wake Forest, North Carolina

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Great place. Awesome food and atmosphere. I'm a local and it's hard to find high-quality food at a reasonable price. This place checks all the boxes. read more

The food is pretty good--I wish they have a better wine selection. The service is great and the ambiance is perfect. read more

Sat at the bar last night for my Wife's Birthday. Small plates were absolutely delicious! Every offering exceeding every expectation! Jess at the bar poured amazing drinks and even laughed at all of our crazy family stories! The ambiance was pushed over the top by a visit from the owner and Super Chef, Serge! He and his crew make every visit a trip to remember! read more

Bodega has become a must when in downtown Wake Forest. Our favs are the Peruvian Chicken, Arancini, Broccoli Kimchi, and Parisienne Gnocchi. The drinks are also fantastic! Be sure to try their espresso martini with any of the tasty desserts! The ambiance is also great although I will say that it gets quite loud on a busy night. Not sure what could be done about the acoustics, but hasn't kept me away yet! read more

I recently had a wonderful experience at Bodega. the ambiance is cozy, the food is excellent, and the service was great. we were surprised at our favorites (which were the parisienne gnocchi and the arancini), given those are usually more predictable dishes. however, it's clear bo takes freshness and well-balanced flavors seriously. we can't wait to come back! read more

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Oh Serg Serg Serg! You naughty, naughty Frenchman! How dare you serve such delightful food? I mean my first visit here, and imagine my surprise when I saw the French side of Tapas! Those escargot?! Ooo lala! My first visit here and we sampled a little bit of everything, but the prize goes to those gnocchi. Pillowy, light, drenched in buttery and cheesy sauce! Service? I M P E C C A B L E! Food? Tight, small, flawless menu! Forewarned I will return when I'm back visiting the area again! This is my warning! read more

The food was very good last night. When we walked in there is a wall that separates the restaurant from the entrance, however, it took awhile for anyone to see us and come attend. I feel like if the wall was shorter or didn't exist at all they would be able to see their customers walk in. The seats were mildly uncomfortable and the high tops were small. I understand this was a small restaurant so it was not a big deal. For what the design of the restaurant lacked, made up for in food. The food was exceptional and very fast. The first thing we ordered were drinks (which were great) and the Arancini and Crab Dip. Both were very good, the Arancini blew us away 10/10 and we're STILL talking about it. The second round was the Peruvian chicken and crispy potatoes, 10/10 very very good. I recommend these 4 dishes. The next round was the gnocchi and lamb meatballs. My BF loved the gnocchi and they were good, I give it an 8.5/10. We both agree the lamb meatballs were not our favorite but the flavors were good. The last round we got was escargot and the empanada. I have never tried Escargot before so it was a risk. It was not my favorite, but it didn't come with good bread. The empanada was just alright, I give it a 5/10. Overall, I would get round 1-3 again and would skip the last round. I give Bodega Tapas & Wine a 4.5 on food and service. read more

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My second visit, actually... I thought I had done a review previously but didn't. My friend picked Bodega to celebrate her girls bday dinner. I love the dim lighting and rustic yet elegant decor of the old building. Our waitress was so cute and very attentive. I believe we ordered almost everything on the menu. The cheese board is delicious, but not enough for 3 people. The escargot was good in the garlic butter and the arancini is always a favorite as they change the sauce depending on the season. You get one beef empanada, which is large enough for 2 and the goat cheese was so creamy. The shrimp was very flavorful and enogh for 2, but I could have eaten it all. The foie gras was interesting. I wasn't expecting it to be served a little cool and then the caramelized crispy top added the sweet. It was good and the lamb meatballs did not disappoint. The crispy potatoes and broccoli were our favorite for the night. The spicy sauce on the broccoli was amazing and the dish had an amazing flavor combo. To top it off, we finished with a delectable Mousse au Chocolat. Experience was as good the second time as the first. read more

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Another return visit to this local gem. Food as good as ever. It's a tapas spot, so small plates are perfect for sharing. Dining room spaced a little wider to (somewhat) preserve social distancing. Still a loud room when all the tables are full. Tried the arancini - 4 golf-ball sized dollops of risotto, deep fried golden brown. Also, the grilled octopus. Don't be scared - it's delicious! 2 inch-sized slivers of octopus grilled. They're smoky and savory - perfect on a bed of hummus and topped with chimichurri rojo. The shrimp shrimp, sautéed with garlic and guajillo (chili) and dressed with mango & chipotle vinaigrette. The shrimp is plump and fresh, cooked perfectly with a nice crunch to each bite, not mealy. The chili adds a touch of heat which is offset by the mango in the sauce. Very tasty. Peruvian chicken is marinated boneless thighs, grilled. Thighs are the most succulent part of the chicken and the marinate highlights beautifully. Grilling is perfect, meat is moist and juicy, dressed in ahi amarillo sauce. Bonus, it's served with delicious pita bread from Sassool. Yum! Lastly, the Brussels sprouts. We've had these here in the past and they were divine. This time, different prep which wasn't that great. Halved sprouts are broiled with carrots, caramelized onion and cream, garnished with almonds. The cream made the sprouts mushy and kind of bland. Much prefer the previous prep. This is an OUTSTANDING restaurant tucked away in downtown Wake Forest. Recommended! read more

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Bodega, in the heart of downtown Wake Forest, brings a high level of sophisticated dining to the area at a fairly high price. This tapas-themed eatery has the feel of a wine cellar. Portions are small (except for the three 'Plates') and intended to be shared. The menu is extensive (22 Tapas options from which to chose), and most of them are noteworthy and unique. It's a great place to celebrate a night out with friends. The seven of us sampled 15 different dishes. Some of our favorites were the Mushroom Ravioli ($13) - Mushrooms, Cauliflower Cream, Pesto and Chioggia Beets - a lot of flavor. The Seared Spiced Tuna with Horseradish Crema ($14) was perfectly rare and delicious, and possibly the best value on the menu. That Tapas standby, Serrano Ham ($11) with Red Wine Poached Pears, Walnuts and Parmesan was a real winner; as was the Salad de Saison ($10) with Blueberries, Goat Cheese and Serge's Grandma's Vinaigrette - so crisp and fresh and light. I also enjoyed the Grilled Broccoli Kimchi Vinaigrette ($13) with Sesame Yogurt Sauce and Cashews (though not everyone appreciated this somewhat off-the-wall concoction). We also enjoyed two change of pace plates: Arancini (Fried Risotto Balls - $11) and Parisienne Gnocchi ($15 - with Bacon, Onions, White Wine, Cream and Raclette Cheese). Another favorite was the Burrata Touille ($13). This Provençal Ratatouille included Burrata Cheese (fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream and means 'buttery' in Italian) and a Savory Granola. The Sauteed Shrimp with Toasted Garlic, Guajillo (moderately hot Mexican Chili), Mango and Chipotle Vinaigrette ($14 for four) and the NC Wagyu Beef Empanada with Cuban Picadillo Style Cilantro Creme ($10) were both delicious. Both of the Dips we tried were very tasty, but quite salty. They included Crab Dip ($15) - Texas Pete, Old Bay, Parmesan with Crostini: and NC Goat Cheese Dip ($14) - Oyster Mushrooms and Holly Grove Goat Cheese. The one item that totally missed the mark with me was the Escargots ($16 for six). Properly cooked Snails swimming in a pool of Lemon, Garlic and Butter are a personal favorite. But the ones served at Bodega had an unusual, somewhat unpleasant flavor. Since this was also the most expensive Tapas item on the menu, it was a double disappointment. Bodega offers a wide assortment of distinctive Liqueurs, Rums and other Spirits. The Red Wines were agreeable and the Orchard Sangria ($13 - White Wine, White Cranberry, Peach Brandy and Triple Sec) was interesting and refreshing. The two specialty cocktails we tried; however, were misfires with us. They were the Bittersweet Cosmopolitan ($14 - Social House Vodka, Lime, Cassis and Cranberry Bitters) and Old Cuban ($14 - Sailor Jerry's Rum, Lime. Mint, Lemongrass and Prosecco). read more

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Y'all. Delightful. Delicious. Decadent from the ambiance to the food and the service. I was greeted kindly during a busy Saturday evening and escorted to the bar per my request. I ordered a lovely rose while I looked over the menu before deciding on the kimchi grilled broccoli. I was torn between the short rib arancini and wagyu empanada, but the friendly bartender behind the counter didn't hear me over the din of the restaurant when I settled on the arancini - so I received both. I have no doubt they would have addressed the issue if I hadn't been so glad for the mistake that I didn't even mention it. Totally worth it and happy I received it! Finished off the meal with an Orchard Sangria - refreshing and not too sweet. read more

Bodega Tapas & Wine - Kimchi grilled broccoli - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Wake Forest, North Carolina

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Great food & unique cocktails! The menu is a combination of family recipes & tapas! Run by a French-man, we asked him what inspired him. He said he enjoyed cooking his favorite foods! read more

Awesome place in downtown Wake Forest. We haven't been back since early last year and heard that ownership changed hands. So, we decided to stay local and were teenager "less" last night. The interior of the restaurant is quite nice with the exposed brick walls and dark furniture. There is a nice bar in the center with a brick arch. The decor is in a Mediterranean / French theme, I think. The menu has a large selection of tapas and about four large plates. We went with a cheese board that came with a spiced goat cheese, Manchego and Mahon. There were crostini's and two spreads, mango and fig. It was delicious. We then ordered the lamb meatballs and a salad( can't remember the name). Both were awesome. We then split a flat iron steak that came with mashed potatoes and a salad. The plate had enough for two people to split. The steak was cooked and seasoned just right. They have a nice cocktail, beer and wine menu. The house cocktails all have a rum as a base I believe. We had a really nice experience here. I'm glad the place survived last year. It's a nice dining option in downtown Wake Forest. If you're in town definitely check them out. read more

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The service and ambiance were good. It's a cute place but the food and experience made us not want to return. Maybe we chose the wrong plates but we discussed where to go for dinner after we finished. We are not big eaters but this meal was meager. Our meal was done in 40 minutes as well which was a bummer. The tuna was ok, but the portion wasn't adequate. The BBQ dish was odd and my date compared it to spam which didn't help. The cheese plate was good and a good value. The shrimp was not good. We returned it and I'm glad they took it off the bill but I didn't expect it. The flavor and texture were not good. A funky aftertaste. The chicken was fine, but again even for tapas the portion seemed tiny. Underwhelmed by the flavors and quality. The servers were nice and helpful. The restaurant looks nice and good ambiance. Overall, for me this is a pass. read more

The service was fantastic. Our server was attentive and pleasant. The food was mediocre at best. The cheese plate was three pieces of bland cheese and an overwhelming amount of crostini. The broccoli was cold. The Peruvian chicken was very fatty. In the end, it felt a bit like an overpriced bummer of a happy hour. read more

The second we walked in, the sounds and aromas of a great dining experience greeted us. That and a smiling hostess. The food was fantastic, the kimchi broccoli being our favorite. They also offer an incredible rum selection and we really liked the desert rums, although the Rum Old Fashioned was pretty tasty a well. The staff were incredibly friendly and despite every table being full, were always prompt and available. We'll definitely be back! Pro Tip: RSVPs are a must on the weekends so don't be afraid to stop in during the week. And leave the kids at home if you can. read more

Food was delicious. Service was great. Server kept my glass filled. Ambiance was quiet small location to meet up with friends for a drinks and tapas in wake forest. Definitely would go back., read more

Bodega Tapas & Wine - Entrance - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Wake Forest, North Carolina

Bodega is serving up delicious tapas in downtown Wake Forest. We stopped in recently to check this place out and Bennett took great care of us. If you are looking to indulge in a cocktail I recommend trying one of their unique rum cocktails over the classics. We tried the ship down and between the sheets, both were solid choices. I was also able to try the sangria bodega and it was good too. For tapas we split the bacon wrapped dates, campanelle pasta, empanada, shaved brussels sprouts (these are served cold like slaw), NC crab stuffed peppers and lamb meatballs. The dates and pasta are the two must orders. The sprouts and peppers were good too but I prefer them served hot. Outside of serving tapas for dinner, Bodega recently started introducing a few brunch items to their menu on Sunday's. Making a reservation was easy, you can call or book online with OpenTable. Cheers! read more

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Found this tapas style restaurant downtown Wake Forrest, we didn't make a reservation and were able to get in rather quickly. From the look of the menu, there were several options we wanted to try.We shared the empanada, lamb meatballs, rigatoni, and lamb ribs which was the perfect serving for two. I was not disappointed by one single dish! Will definitely be back to explore more of the menu. PS the Strawberry Caipirinha is the perfect drink if you like your cocktails on the sweet and strong side lol read more

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I ordered takeout from here after hearing a rumor that the chef/owner was the former Saint Jacques chef. I'm not sure if that is true, but I had a really good experience here. It was crowded but every staff member I interacted with was "go out of their way" levels of nice. It has an atmosphere that would suit a date night and I will probably try dining in at some point. The food was excellent. the standouts to me were the arancini (my understanding is that the flavor rotates; it was mushroom that day), empanadas, and the rigatoni. read more

Their Escargot and cocktails are great. My favorite dessert there is Crème brûlée. Fun place to hang with friends

Divine! Divine! Divine! I love tapas and Bodega did not disappoint. The margarita al pastor was perfect. The chipotle has a nice finish at the end. Escargot, seared tuna, empanada and octopus were scrumptious. The scallop ceviche was really good and excellently seasoned, my only complaint was the chips they were served with needed salt. I was not a fan of the foie Gras, but I'm not a huge fan of creme brûlée, however my friend found it very delightful. The wild boar rigatoni we got to go and it's the best bolognese I've ever had, truly took me back to Italy. I can't wait to come back. read more

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We are regulars at Bodega, great ambiance for a date night but also to hangout with friends. Excellent presentation of the dishes. My favorite here is the goat cheese dip, so yummy! As any tapas place the portions are very small so be Ready to get 2-3 per person. Great sangria. I am not as familiar with Spanish wine options but they have a red French one that is pretty good! I highly recommend to try this restaurant. read more

Bodega Tapas & Wine - Meatballs and spinach dip - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Wake Forest, North Carolina

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I know what Tapas means (small plates) and Ive had Tapas many many times but the portions were so teeny tiny. We had 5 plates between two of us and were still hungry. After 5 plates and two glass's of wine between the two of us a little over $110 not including tip of course. The restaurant was very clean and the staff was super nice. But again, portions were the smallest portions Ive ever had. We wont go back just based on the portion sizes being so measly. And if you love escargot, I wouldn't recommend. They were ok but honestly they were the size of a pencil eraser and we got 4 tiny tiny pieces of bread to go with it. read more

Nestled in quaint downtown wake forest, this charming establishment offers an ideal atmosphere for drinks, small plates, and casual conversation. The dining room was filled with families, couples and groups who were just enjoying the atmosphere and having a good time. The group across from us even took the time to share their tapas with us, we enjoyed the atmosphere. Although they obviously offer take out, they also have socially distant seating inside and outside. It pays to make reservations, especially with the limited number of tables inside, this seems to be a popular establishment. The wine selection offers an impressive variety of both red's and white's, unfortunately due to my short attention span I passed over the rum cocktails, something I will be sure to try on my return visit. A good "old fashioned" is hard so to find! I would endorse the cheeseboard, I didn't even feel the need to shun any of the cheeses they brought out, which is rare, and the crostini was very flavorful. The Parisienne gnocchi was phenomenal, a small plate, so order two if you plan on making it a meal. We also tried the Rigatoni Mezze; I took a chance on the wild boar and was happy I did! Of course I didn't leave without desert, typically I would never pass up a cannoli, but I will pass up a "mini" cannoli! so it was a homemade Crème brulee for me. Cheers! read more

The food was amazing, the service was on point! The ambiance was perfect! Lamb Meatballs read more

Bodega Tapas & Wine - NC Wagu Ragout Rigantoni - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Wake Forest, North Carolina

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Great food and atmosphere. Almost feels like it belongs in downtown Raleigh rather than downtown Wake Forest, but I'm glad it's here. The owner came out and spoke with us - very friendly guy. Only con is that it is expensive for the amount you get. Overall great spot. read more

Cheese boards and wine. Don't expect large filling meals or you'll be disappointed. Most drink their wine with pinkies in the air.