Otta Zapotocky opens wine bar on Bayview Ave.

Otta Zapotocky, well known wine expert and host at L’Avenue on Bayview Ave., is about to open a Spanish-themed wine bar and restaurant across the street from L’Avenue. It is already under construction at 1581 Bayview, the former home of The Mad Italian. Zapotocky has been busy molding the premises into a space with the feel of a warm and comfy cellar club. Brick walls and hardwood trim decorate the interior. No doubt Otta will provide the same genial presence and sommelier skills at his Spanish bar. Hours of business of the new bar will be somewhat different from L’Avenue. Guests are expected to linger into the evening a little longer at Tinto Bar Tapas although it will also be open for brunch. It is a welcome addition to Bayview Ave. and will bring additional life to the east side of the street. On a side note, the former  premises of Chai on Bayview has been renovated and given a new, modern front. The space is for rent but it appears attractive and should go fairly soon, assuming the tariff is right.