Be prepared for confusion as you walk into this historic block-covering building on South Jersey's Swedesboro's classic village main street. There are three separate restaurants accessible through the main doors and an ice cream window along the building's alley way right side. The Red Hen restaurant is to the left and the BLK SHP to your right. Frankly, I never found out what bar/eatery is in the middle but it was the BLK SHP that was calling to us with their classic tapas menu. I walked through the door on the right to discover a warm comfortable dining room with a massive fireplace. The windows at BLK SHP offer glimpses of traffic along this classic South Jersey town and for non-rainy days there are seats on the old porch, which looked very comfortable. The menu is a fun curiosity with dining options listed under categories such as: "Earth, Greens, Land, and Water." It's a tapas bar, which means small plates and of course questions because we needed some menu insight. The waitress was awesome and VERY patient because she was facing newbies. Her recommendation was 2 to 3 items per person. She said some folks start "small" and add items throughout the meal, which she encouraged us to do. She did say some order a lot knowing they will be boxing food at the conclusion of their meal. My shared meal was pretty much close to perfect. Roasted Butternut Salad (The dressing was really good.), Arepa Pastor (Nice kick to its spices), Wild Mushroom Ragout (The waitress applauded this choice and although it was a relatively small plate they were very good!), and the closer was the lemony Queso de Cabra whose melted goat cheese served as dessert. If you go make sure your friends like to share food because this experience is all about sharing. Sharing delicious and filling food ... no room not temptation to check out the ice cream window. The doors swung open towards a rain drenched street and we looked at each other agreeing that the BLK SHP is a great choice to meet for dinner. I don't know what's in the middle at 1301 Kings Highway in Swedesboro and the Red Hen is to the left but comfort and great food are on the right at the BLK SHP. read more

Blk Shp - Tapas Bars Near Me - Swedesboro, New Jersey

Delicious vegan options, great portion sizes, expansive menu for whiskey, beer, and other drinks. I went around 4pm so it was quite empty, and it was really peaceful. Service was prompt, helpful, and not overbearing. Food is served as it is ready (not 3-course style) which makes for a fluid, natural dining experience. Would love to come back and try from their local craft beer selection & order more from their vegan meals! read more

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Ambiance- 5/5 Service- 5/5 Food-4.2/5 Cheesy bread with hot honey- 3.8/5 Sweet potato tacos- 3.8/5 Enchiladas- 3.8/5 Red curry and rice- 4.5/5 (spicy) Caesar salad- 5/5 Drinks: Clementini was delicious 5/5 (for future reference, I loved adding the soda water for some fizz) read more

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Friendly staff and nice old schools atmosphere. The tapas is are smaller than they are in Europe. I traveled all over the world and the tapas is in Spain, and other Spanish or Brazilian countries are larger than the tapas of here. I had the octopus the portion was too small. However, it was very tasty. read more

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Back again and the menu is full of fun options! The drinks are really neat and the food is separated into proteins and carbs basically. Lots of Gluten Free options!! The food comes out as it's done. Naturally the tables favorite dish was the last to come out. (the chicken empanadas). I loved the paella! The vibe is very chill, gastropub like. The drinks were slow but they come from a shared bar in Red Hen. Definitely a spot for date night or just friends! read more

This place was a little confusing since there were 3 different places at the same location so we chose the blk shp which was at as tapas style which means small plates. I decided on the hanger steak and it was done to perfection and very tender. It was just enough for my small appetite. read more

Blk Shp - Hanger steak - Tapas Bars Near Me - Swedesboro, New Jersey

Blk Shp is delightful and such a better restaurant than Tavro 13. From the ceasar salad to the ribs and bread pudding, everything tasted great there. Service was super friendly, seats were posh and comfortable, and the fireplace was a nice touch too. I heard great things about the acorn squash risotto as well. Blk Shp is cozy and warm, and a fantastic spot to visit while in Swedesboro. read more

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I honestly can't say enough about this little gem! BLK SHP is small, cozy and intimate. Its tapas but the portions aren't super small like other tapas restaurants. The menu is eclectic with lots of different options but its not intimidating at all. And the service is amazing. Not to mention the drinks from the bar would be criminal as well. Hands down the Best Martini and Old Fashioned in the area!! It's our go to date night spot... we've gone dozens of times and never been disappointed. Honestly I can't say enough read more

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What a great find! A cute place with even better food. So much on the menu looked good, it was difficult to decide what to order! We ended up picking five dishes to share (there were two of us) and that was plenty. We especially enjoyed the wild mushroom ragout and Mediterranean salad. Would definitely recommend! read more

We ducked into the Blk Shp on a cold Sunday, just moments before a snowstorm hit. We were seated next to the fire place, which was charming and delightful. Service was attentive and fast, and each of the dishes we selected came out when it was ready, making for a fun, communal experience. Our cocktails were excellent; there's an incredible bourbon collection, with a formidable selection of ryes as well. read more

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Wow! Went on a Thursday evening around 6:30. Parking was easy on the street and the restaurant was easy to find. Sat outside on the patio in perfect weather. We had the grilled Root Vegetables, Souvlaki, and Apple Walnut Salad w/Gorgonzola (favorite dish). They were all wonderful, but the salad was outstanding. Finished with a very rich Chocolate Ganache w/ blueberry sauce. All delish. Service was perfect. We travelled an hour to get here, but will definitely come back. read more

I love this place. My wife and I have been coming here for the past three years, and often there are times we come here every other week. We absolutely love the food here, especially the tapas. The food is so flavorful--it reminds us so much of our trips to Spain and Italy. Mediterranean-style cuisine never lets us down when we want to experience rich, authentic, and vibrant flavors. The food is always consistent. It never fails us, and that is something we truly appreciate after coming here for so long. This has truly become our date night place to go. It's somewhere we know we will enjoy amazing food and meaningful time together. If you love explosive flavors, you won't be disappointed. The service in this place is amazing. The staff is always attentive, personable, and truly makes us feel welcomed and appreciated every time we visit. We love that about them. The chef is also incredible--she often comes out to check on us, making sure everything is okay and asking how the food is. That personal touch means so much to us and really shows how much they care about their guests' experience. The ambience here is amazing. This has become a very special place for us, somewhere we associate with great memories, wonderful meals, and quality time together. We absolutely love it. I also love the name, Black Sheep, because it truly stands out--just like a black sheep would. read more

My dining partner found this place, said the menu was so intriguing we had to try it. The town is really cute and we took a walk before going in. There was some confusion as to which restaurant we were there for but it eventually got sorted out and we were seated in a very nice dining area. We tried to baked Brie, sweet potato tacos and roasted acorn risotto. The Brie wasn't what I expected, having loved various dishes with cheese, figs, and honey in the past. This was bland and the figs were hard and didn't really have much flavor. The honey also wasn't very flavorful, which is odd, as honey generally has a very specific taste. The bread also seemed kind of stale. The sweet potato tacos weren't great. My dining partner liked them but I found them bland and chewy. The star of the show - and what saved our evening - was the roasted acorn risotto. OMG was that delicious! From first bite to last it was soooo good. We were both marveling at how wonderful that one dish was. The roasted acorn risotto turned a "meh" experience into one of where we would return. We'd order the risotto again and try something else in the hopes we could find another delicious dish. Oddly we couldn't order from the Red Hen so we closed out our check and went next door for dessert. But remember: roasted acorn risotto. Mmmmm. read more

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This is such a phenomenal restaurant tucked away in Sweedesboro. If you have never been, give it a try- you won't be disappointed. The ambiance is serene, gorgeous and cozy. The food is chef's kiss delicious! (Shout out to the Chef who never fails on delivering the most delicious dishes each time). I'm not sure I've had anything here that wasn't absolutely amazing. The roasted butternut salad was great with infusions of pomegranate, pistachios and goat cheese, followed by my number one fav---the street steak which comes with a fantastic chimichanga eqse sauce and warm pita bread. I get it every-time I come here. The falafel was also a good choice and the grilled vegetables were so delicious. Service is always on point (shout out to Maddie who always provides the best service). Other recommendations are the lamb Kalamaki and Ceviche (not pictured here, was a separate visit that I forgot to review). If you are looking for a fab spot to have an amazing meal without crossing the bridge give Blk sheep a try, I promise you won't regret it! read more

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Service was extremely friendly doing the best with what they had. I personally found the menu limited and without theme with a very good looking interior this could be an incredible restaurant for whatever reason it has no identity. read more

This was our third trip to Blk Shp and it never disappoints. The dishes are creative and far above the quality of most restaurants in south Jersey. Don't miss the kachupari, spicy ribs, or the bourbon banana bread pudding. read more

I was very impressed! The dining room is super cute and cozy and every table has a view of the fireplace. Every dish we had was amazing! In the pic is the bruschetta and Kachapuri. You HAVE to get the Kachapuri - one of the best things I've ever had. We also ordered the squash risotto, creamed kale, skirt steak, octopus, and branzino all very good. The bacon wrapped jalapeños were good but probably wouldn't order again. read more

Blk Shp - Bruschetta & Kachapuri - Tapas Bars Near Me - Swedesboro, New Jersey

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After enjoying this place a year ago, we set it as a destination after going to the William Heritage Winery. The tapas approach is wonderful and allows you to try the garlic shrimp, the eggplant chips, the kale and numerous other fun well made dishes. Highly recommend. read more

The food, service, and atmosphere were great! But the food, especially, was amazing!!! We had eggplant chips, roasted root vegetables, and acorn squash risotto along with some of my friend's truffle fries!! I also had the butterscotch pecan bread pudding to go. Sooo delicious!! I was so impressed by the food!! We will definitely be going back again and again!! read more

I will start with the fact that this place has become a favorite! I am working my way through the menu. This evening, my friend and I enjoyed a few favorites and a new dish. All delish! The flatbread with brie and gooseberries is so good! The Blk Shp chips are a must!! The ceviche of scallops and mango is Devine! The portabella mushroom with brie and gooseberries were fabulous! To top off our wonderful meal, served by Tanner, who is a great guy, We met the chef and owner, Elizabeth. We absolutely enjoyed our conversation! She is so talented. Her menu is my favorite challenge, I want to try everything! She is a wonderful person and I am thrilled that I got to know her a bit, tonight. I look forward to our next visit, to see Elizabeth, her wonderful staff, and enjoy new items on the menu! read more

Excellent range of tapas. Interesting options. Average price ranges from nine to $20. For three of us we spent about $90 on food with no drinks. Really enjoyed the tamale and the brussels sprouts. The garlic shrimp is slightly overpriced with only five shrimp for $14 The night we were there there was loud music in the bar area but we sat outside so that was fine. Personally, I would not want to sit indoors when the music is that allowed. We stopped here during a trip between Washington DC and New York. Great place to stop a couple hours outside of DC.... read more

Blk Shp - Menu - Tapas Bars Near Me - Swedesboro, New Jersey

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Stopped in for lunch and sat at the bar. I got the Gambas Al Ajillo (garlic shrimp) and they were amazing! Lots of flavor, garlic and served in a cute small fry pan. I also got the Hanger steak which was even better! So much flavor and the chimchurri sauce was so tasty. Will definitely be back for happy hour or meals. The bar tender was friendly also. The atmosphere is very laid back and the bar and restaurant has fun decor. read more

October 10 630pm til 930pm - Another amazing meal here - I drive 35 miles/1 hour from Moorestown in work traffic to come to this fine place. Heather once again was fun as our server. Great cocktails, beautiful ambience. nice portions for tapas, and fair pricing for the quality of drinks and food. The Georgian cheese bread is amazing. Eggplant chips can't go wrong with. The empanadas are probably the best I've ever had - the filling is perfect and the use of puff paste really elevates it. Did the ribs again and this time they were fall off the bone. The dry rub with a hint of rosemary coming thru (perfect with pork) and the sauce are well composed and work together. They could back off on the sauce as the ribs were swimming in it (all that sauce isnt necessary). Also got the pork belly (as a preface I make porchetta twice a year as well as well as siu yuk (Cantonese crispy belly). Blk Shps's belly was perfectly tender and meaty. The pomegranate sauce/syrup was delish and the green sauce with it made it interesting and worked well. However, the belly meat itself was bland and would have benefited from a simple salt/pepper dry brine on the meat side for at least a 24 hour period prior to roasting. It's also my opinion, that prior to saucing, the skin could have been crisped up to make it more crackling for a textural contrast - still delish but could be even better IMO. Had the bread pudding for dessert which was nice and "eggy", hint of bourbon, just sweet enough, and the chopped toasted pecans gave it a nice texture. Another great meal - I'll drive the hour again as it's worth it. read more

We were in the area from Washington, D.C. to visit family and were told about a unique restaurant in Swedesboro that combined two great menus under one roof--BLK SHP (Mediterranean tapas) and The Red Hen (Classic American fare). While each restaurant has its own dining space (BLK SHP - more refined historic vibe / The Red Hen - bar and casual seating), the center section where the bar is located allows you to order from both menus. It was the perfect solution for the varying interests of our guests. My husband and I enjoyed several absolutely DELICIOUS tapas dishes from the BLK SHP menu (Branzino, Spicy Shrimp, Chicken Slouvlaki, etc) and our guests tried a couple of different taco options from the Red Hen menu that they loved-large delicious portions. Both restaurants were very busy that night, but the service team was excellent and took time at our table, and we had na opportunity to meet Chef / Co-owner Elizabeth before we left who was gracious to spend some time with us. It was great to learn about the inspiration for the two restaurants. We'll definitely be back--especially to sit in the very cute BLK SHP side of the restaurant to enjoy the rest of the Tapas dishes on the menu! Could not possibly recommend this place more! 5 stars! read more

Blk Shp - BLK SHP - Swedesboro, NJ - Tapas Bars Near Me - Swedesboro, New Jersey

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I was in Jersey for an event and found this place. I love a good tapas restaurant and know they are few and far between in the area. Upon arrival there was confusion of what door to go in and what bar/restaurant I was actually in. Apparently Blk Shp connects with the Red Hen and one restaurant is closed on certain days while the other is open. Reguardless- I was handed a stack of menus containing items from both restaurants. Very overwhelming and confusing! When at a tapas restaurant you order a bunch! The small plates that stood out have to be the mussels with their delicious cream sauce and the spicy shrimp (though not very spicy). The wild mushrooms were tastey but the consistency was odd. Many things came with bread which I love but it was all very very hard and almost not enjoyable. read more

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After our second visit I can say this is one of our favorite restaurants. Be warned, the portions are far more generous than typical tapas! We way over ordered our first time. Service is always terrific!! read more

Amazing food and atmosphere! Small plates that are gourmet and truly delicious! Enjoy! read more

Blk Shp - At Black Sheep Restaurant - Tapas Bars Near Me - Swedesboro, New Jersey

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Very pleasantly suprised. Excellent menu selection and top shelf food. We are coming back a lot! I'm a verified customer. I'm not the owners aunt! Very good food in Swedesboro! read more

Blk Shp - a fireplace in a living room - Tapas Bars Near Me - Swedesboro, New Jersey

3rd time enjoying BLK Shp. Amazing food, excellent service (If you get Christian you're very lucky!), and the ambience is cozy and elegant. Love this place! If I lived closer I'd eat there more often. I've never had a bad dish there and the serving portions are large! Bring your appetite when you go. read more

Absolutely loved this restaurant. The food was delicious, service excellent, atmosphere beautifully classic. read more

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Good spot in Swedesboro. The kachapuri and the ribs were standouts but everything we had was very good. The churros were excellent and tasted like apple cider donuts. read more

What an amazingly cute restaurant!!! The food was amazing. We ordered 4 different vegan tapas for my friend and I and we had leftovers to take home! If you are vegan (or even if you aren't) - get the creamed kale! It's sooooo good!!!! I will definitely be back! read more

The food was delicious. Service was impeccable. Get the butternut squash risotto...incredible!

Looking for change of pace during our roadtrip, we stopped here. A nice selection of tapas dishes as well as a nice bar selection to complement all our food. All the dishes we sampled were very good. we especially enjoyed the hearty mushroom dish and the hot roasted peppers. The service was friendly and knowledgeable. I would definitely eat here again. read more

Blk Shp - a dining room with a lot of chairs and tables - Tapas Bars Near Me - Swedesboro, New Jersey

2nd time at Blk_Shp, only because it's a drive from my house, otherwise I'd be there more often. My BFF is Vegan so we always order Vegan for her and I order vegetarian for me. Don't be fooled by the term "tapas" at Blk_Shp. You will get so much food you'll leave with togo containers and if you order like we do, meals for the next 4 days! They recently changed their menu but all our favorites, and now some new favorites are there. For the amount of food you get and the low prices, you definitely get a steal! The ambiance of the restaurant is cozy and inviting. The service is always spot on. We LOVE Blk_Shp and will be back. Blk_Shp is a gem in Swedesboro, I highly suggest you check it out. Next time I'll take food pics to share, until then, follow Blk_Shp on IG - trust me, your mouth will be watering. read more

Inside is warm & cozy. Not busy at all during a recent Saturday night. I forgot to take pics of the food but we ordered truffle fries (wish there was a bit more truffle on top), Brussel sprouts (they were okay), and rosemary bread (pretty good). We also ordered patron margaritas which were awesome. Our server was friendly & attentive. We had the small room all to ourselves for most of our visit so it felt very romantic with the Fireplace & candles lite. It's small tapas plates so don't expect sandwiches, steaks, etc. I think the Red Hen next door offers that. read more

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The staff and food were excellent!! If you are ever able to try out the Blk Shp I would highly suggest you check it out. Many of the tapas were large enough to share with four if needed. The staff members were very knowledgeable about the menu as well. read more

Been here plenty of times. Chef is passionate and it shows. In my opinion the only good restaurant in the swedesboro/Mullica hill/Mantua area. read more

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Omg! So happy that I found this cute little spot in downtown Swedesboro. First off, the staff is super sweet and helpful. Upon walking into the restaurant we're immediately greeted and seated. In fact they gave us the option to sit wherever we would like so we chose the comfy couch section which is great for a group. They have a bunch of board games to play in that sections as well. Ambiance was relaxing and calm and they had a fire place going. I think the best way to describe this restaurant would be homey. Food::: You can bring your vegan friends with! There are multiple Vegan and Vegetarian options for us! Food was awesome! I'll break it down by dish: Fried Long Hot Peppers (VEGAN) - Delish and simple. Wild Mushrooms - that toasted sourdough bread that it comes with issss soooo goood! This dish was not complicated and I liked it! Spicy Grilled Shrimp - This was basically shrimp with guacamole slapped on it. It wasn't bad but it wasn't that exciting either. Creamy Kale (VEGAN!) - so I was expecting this to have somewhat of a hummus consistence since the waiter explained it to be something like an artichoke dip. But it was in fact not like an artichoke dip at all lol it was like sautéed kale with chickpeas and a creamy sauce. I did not come with anything to dip with either. It was still good. Lamb lollipops - my dad ordered this but the menu says it comes with 4 but it came with two thick pieces. He confirmed that it tasted very good. Beet salad - can't ever go wrong with a beet salad. It was great! We didn't have enough room in our stomach to try more menu items but I will definitely return back soon! read more

Blk Shp - Sign outside - Tapas Bars Near Me - Swedesboro, New Jersey

This is such a great place. We went for the first time tonight. Cool Dining room, great cocktails, excellent fresh food. Our server Heather was super attentive as well as her busser (I didn't get his name) We ordered a few dishes and then order a few more. Everything came out at a nice pace where the table didn't get crowded with plates. At the end of the meal, Chef Elizabeth came out and introduced herself and chatted with us as well as every other table. It was an awesome dining experience and we will be back. read more