One enters from a side entrance in the building, and then down a spiral staircase to a simple entryway, with a spare but pleasant dining room beyond. Decor is limited to a few small paintings and decorative objects against exposed brick walls and some light wood accents, but there is just enough there to set the tone for elegance. This is accentuated by the managers and the waiting staff, who are very courteous in a warm but slightly formal way. Respect seems to be the operative word here, both for the patrons and for the experience of good dining. One opens a menu to find a range of dishes that are both decidedly authentic Spanish offerings but decidedly stylish, providing a range of meat, poultry and fish that prove to be elegant and enjoyable without resorting to the seasoning and presentation cliches of many a med grille in these parts.
Every bite is clearly Spanish, but done with great attention to the balance of flavor.
Although not always on the menu, try to time your visit for the presence of their snails, which are very tender and prepared with a wonderful blend of spices, sweetness and pungency. Feel free to ask for suggestions, which will be forthcoming and useful. What makes the experience a notch above most other fine restaurants, though, is the impeccable service. All this is done with a low-key manner that will have you perhaps not even noticing the quality of the service, since it seems to flow so naturally. By going a little light on things like wines and side dishes you can actually get out for a pretty decent price, but in general the experience is best enjoyed with all the stops pulled out, including a delicious round of coffee and traditional Spanish deserts.