Barceloneta Spanish Bistro & Mercat

• Cuisine(s): Brunch, Latin, Latin American
  Hours: Dinner Mon-Sat 6 p.m.-midnight, Sun 6-11 p.m.; brunch Sun noon-3 p.m
  Price: $$$, $$$$
  Payment Types: All Major Credit Cards, cash
• Attire: Casual
  Features: Kid Friendly, Patio/Sidewalk Dining, Wheelchair Accessible
  Serving: Brunch, Dinner
  Alcohol: Beer/Wine
• Reservations: Not Accepted
  Parking: Meters, Valet

Description

This hip neighborhood spot succeeds for the same reason the team's other two venues (Pubbelly and Pubbelly Sushi) have prospered: chef-driven, value-friendly food and drink in a convivial and casual environment. Like a great actor, Barceloneta doesn't strain to achieve authenticity but reflects real Spanish cuisine through its own natural perspective. "Mercat" selections include Spanish cheeses -- from Manchego to Mahón at $5 per ounce -- and charcuterie such as jamón ibérico and Serrano ham. Better value comes via meats and fish grilled simply, such as a juicy eight-ounce skirt steak from Meyer Ranch or a meaty octopus tentacle from Spain for $15 each. Heartier bistro courses include the traditional (tortilla española); traditional with a twist or two (chorizo a la sidra with added apples and creamy Valdeón blue cheese); and Ferran Adrià-inspired wonders such as octopus, chorizo, piquillo peppers, and tomato confit beneath a rich, delicate potato foam speckled with smoky pimentón de la Vera and drizzled with chorizo oil. Wow. Great Spanish wines, beers, and cocktails contribute to the good times. Barceloneta is an ideal spot to sit for a poet's dinner: glass of Tempranillo, Manchego cheese, and some of that crusty $2 bread. In fact, this is an ideal spot for dinner, period.