The Spaniard Reviews Menu West Village Nyc

Nathan Jahnke

2 min read

·

20-12-2024

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The Spaniard, nestled in the heart of New York City's West Village, offers a vibrant tapas experience that blends traditional Spanish flavors with a modern, sophisticated twist. This review delves into the restaurant's ambiance, service, and, most importantly, its food.

Ambiance and Service

The restaurant boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere. The dimly lit interior, accented with rich wood tones and tasteful Spanish décor, creates a cozy and romantic setting, perfect for a date night or a relaxed evening out with friends. The service is generally attentive and friendly, although on busier nights, the pace might feel slightly rushed. However, the staff's knowledge of the menu and their willingness to offer recommendations are commendable.

The Food: A Culinary Journey Through Spain

The menu at The Spaniard is extensive and diverse, showcasing a wide array of Spanish tapas. While the classics are well-represented – think perfectly cooked patatas bravas and succulent gambas al ajillo – the chef also incorporates creative twists on traditional dishes.

Standout Dishes:

• Croquetas de Jamón: These creamy, crispy ham croquettes were a standout, exhibiting a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The richness of the béchamel sauce was beautifully offset by the salty ham.

• Pulpo a la Plancha: The grilled octopus was tender and flavorful, expertly seasoned and cooked to perfection. The accompanying potatoes provided a satisfying textural contrast.

• Paella: The paella, while a bit pricier than other dishes, was a delicious and substantial main course option. The rice was cooked al dente, and the seafood was fresh and abundant.

Areas for Improvement:

While most dishes were excellent, a few minor issues were noted. The manchego cheese, while tasty, could have been served at a slightly warmer temperature. Also, the portion sizes of some tapas, while appropriate for sharing, might feel small for those with larger appetites.

Overall Impression

The Spaniard provides a delightful culinary experience, offering a sophisticated take on traditional Spanish tapas. While some minor improvements could be made, the overall quality of the food, coupled with the charming ambiance, makes it a worthwhile destination for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Spain in the heart of the West Village. The price point is slightly higher than some other tapas restaurants in the area, but the quality justifies the cost for a special occasion or a celebratory meal.