Living in New York City means having access to all types of ethnic food. The more I travel, the more I realize how good the cuisine is in NYC. This week experience one of my favorite things, flavorful tapas from Spain. You get to order double and taste more dishes!
Amada (250 Vesey Street) Chef Jose Garces took a quick ride from Philadelphia to open another Spanish tapas hot spot in the Big Apple. Monday through Friday from 5-7 p.m. pig out on $8 tapas and wines plus $5 beers. The chorizo garlic sausage and the pimientos de padron peppers are absolutely delicious. If you’re with a large group splurge for rabbit chorizo paella ($68) or lobster seafood paella ($78). One of their specialties for groups is a whole roast suckling pig that needs to be ordered in advance. If you visit for brunch, add $15 for for two hours of bottomless cava or sangria.
Tía Pol (205 Tenth Avenue) This tiny gem makes me feel like I’m eating in someones kitchen. Brick lined and cozy the tapas dishes here are top notch. The gambas al ajillo ($12) shrimp is swimming in a super dip-worthy sauce. Ask for extra bread! The octopus salad with white beans and olive oil is also dippable. Explore the all Spanish wine list and discover a crisp white albariño with your meal. I dare you not to order at least two pan con tomate ($8). Piled with tomatoes and olive oil, it is the perfect compliment to everything you order. I could make a meal of them with some cheese.
Socarrat Paella Bar (3 locations) Socarrat is the crispy rice that forms on the bottom and sides of the pan that is considered a delicacy in Spain. In other words, “Socarrat” is the result of a paella cooked to perfection. Check out their eight varieties plus a paella of the day all priced per person. For parties of twelve or more they offer a three-course dinner including two paella selections starting at $45 per person. The lunch special is $24.95 for three courses with, of course, paella. For happy hour – Chelsea (Monday-Friday 4-6 p.m.), Midtown East (daily 4-7 p.m.), Nolita (4:30-7 p.m.) – locations offer half off tapas and $7 drinks. Unlike some places, the paella portion isn’t overly huge but it is tasty. Brunch is $39 for three courses and two hours of unlimited sangria or mimosas. Check their website for additional specials like half price wine bottles over $60 and flamingo dancing.