$$$$Prix : cher • Tapas/Amuse-Bouche • Newark
VIVO Tapas Kitchen & Lounge in Newark’s Ironbound (167 Ferry St) is a vibrant Spanish‑style eatery and lounge, bringing Iberian flair to New Jersey’s nightlife. With an eclectic menu spanning about 50 cold and hot tapas—think seared scallops drizzled with cinnamon aioli, garlic shrimp “ajillo,” stuffed mushrooms, fried calamari, and hearty paellas like Valencian and Diabo. The atmosphere shifts from cozy lunch spot to buzzing night‑scene hub: DJs spin Latin, Top 40, and freestyle music; hookah is available; and bottle‑service and dance modes kick in late on weekends. Bright, casual indoor‑outdoor seating encourages sharing plates over spirited conversation—a true tapas tradition. Service is generally attentive, and there are happy‑hour deals and weekend specials (karaoke Thursdays, party bowls Saturdays) Whether for relaxed group dinners or lively evening outings, VIVO offers fresh, flavorful Spanish cuisine with a side of nightlife energy—j
