Delicious Spanish Tapas via the UES
By Miss Jane
For Spanish tapas at a classy, yet not-so-stuffy restaurant, venture to the Upper East Side’s El Porron. Providing a warm, bistro-like atmosphere, this eatery, run by father chef “Mr G” and his dapper son, Diego, offers a menu of hot and cold tapas, dinner entrees, delectable desserts, and an extensive wine list.
Bring a party of your favorite girls, grab a booth and start with their sparkling cava sangria, which has a fresh fruit spritzer taste. Then order an assortment of tapas for everyone to share. I highly recommend the Mejillones a la Vinagreta de chardonnay (fresh mussels in a Chardonnay vinaigrette), the Jamon Serrano (thin slices of dry-cured Spanish country ham served with toasted garlic bread and fresh tomato) and a Mr. G specialty, the Vieras con Tocino en salsa de Esparragos (pan-seared sea scallops sprinkled with bacon, garlic, and breadcrumbs.)
For a great fish dish, try the halibut, according to Mr. G. it’s made with “capers and a little heart.” The flaky fish,with its fresh ingredients is served with carrots and asparagus and tastes amazing.
My guest enjoyed the Solomillo de Conchinillo Adobado, grilled pork tenderloin marinated in herbs in a tomato mushroom brandy sauce. The pork was tender and the veggies added a nice healthy touch with the meat.
The menu also boasts paella in meat, seafood and vegetarian variety.
For dessert, you can’t leave without trying the berry parfait with sherry cream, fresh seasonal berries, and homemade whipped cream. It’s a touch of sweet heaven!
The Torrejas, or caramelized strips of french toast soaked in Rioja (red wine), are served with vanilla bean ice cream and comes in as a close second in an utterly fantastic ending to a great dining experience.
