It is a funny thing here in NYC, it seems the word "Spanish" has come to be synonymous with "hispanic". Going out for a "Spanish" meal here usually means inevitably getting jalapenos or yuca on your plate - two ingredients that are not at all native to the Iberian peninsula but come from South America.
So where does one go when craving the salty, flavorful dishes of Spain? There is currently only one place to go and it is merely a cafe that has been added on to the only Spanish market in the city, Despaña on Broome Street in SoHo.
While the cafe is very small and has no table service, the food is tasty and stays very true to Iberian culinary heritage. The tapas come in a great variety including bacalao, octopus, Serrano ham, croquettes and Spanish omelette (with onions of course!). There are also cured meat sandwiches, salads and soups.
In the summer try their Gazpacho, it is what gazpacho is supposed to taste like. Their croquettes taste like they were made in Madrid. And their chistorra, made in the US, can only be described as maravilloso. Wash it all down with some sparkling water or a Estrella beer.
The best thing about this place is it's ability to inspire. With all of the products available for sale and the best Spanish wine shop in the city next door, you will easily find yourself with an expensive bag of goodies sure to wow your friends. Maybe it will even help you roll those R's, correcto?!
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