Known for serving authentic tapas well before the trend took off as well as for its ornate, eclectic décor, Dali Restaurant & Tapas Bar in Somerville has delighted diners since 1989. Owners Mario Leon and Tamara Bourso renovated and designed the place to look like a hedonist's cave, with plaster dripping down the walls, candlelight and flowers, and little surprises for the eye – beaded curtains, mosaics and garlic braids – everywhere you look. The atmosphere is boisterous and bustling, with spirited waiters, lovey-dovey couples, and groups of loud, laughing friends. And the food is widely known as some of the best Spanish vittles in town. The small tapas plates dominate the menu, with only a few entrées from which to choose. To start, try the tortilla Española, a traditional egg, potato and onion omelet, with a plate of jamón serrano and some marinated olives. Move on to scallops in saffron cream and stuffed squid in its own ink, or try a plate of marinated octopus. Meats here are great: Try the boneless pheasant with mushroom and ham, or the braised rabbit with red wine and garlic. Grilled prawns, beef tenderloin on toast, roast duckling – the plates are small, but your appetite should be primed. Start your meal with a glass of dry sherry and move on to the wine list, filled with cavas, sprightly whites and rich Rioja reds. Named Best Spanish/Tapas and Best Romantic Restaurant in the 2007 The Phoenix readers poll. Beer, wine and cordials available. Reservations only accepted in the early part of the evening, restricted on weekends. Serving dinner nightly.