Socarrat Paella Bar

I’m sitting here enjoying risotto and it’s making me think about the amazing paella at Socarrat Paella Bar.

My Honey pot took me on a date to a churro spot once in soho (or maybe it was noho), where this paella bar was it’s neighbor and I vowed to visit. So, when my girlfriend wanted to grab a bite after work in the neighborhood, this was just calling me. I’ve actually been there twice so sit back for a dose of both experiences. The downtown location is dark and moody. There’s a super long wait for a table and it’s completely worth it. Don’t expect a neat cocktail though; this one is strictly a wine bar. Not in midtown though…the Midtown location is bright. I made a reservation (since I learned from last time) but the dining room wasn’t packed anyway. They DO have cocktails here and I ordered “the lola” which was pretty good. It was very strawberry and had an obvious kick to it.

I believe I finished my drink, which I probably baby sat, before I decided on which Paella to try. The menu is mouth watering just by reading what they’re tossing in each dish and it gets overwhelming, especially when you’re out with people who want to eat it all. *cough* Martine and Mike *cough* But finally, we came to a compromise. This was after reviewing paellas that have eggplant, sugar snow peas, and rabbit. And those were in three different paellas, so imagine. Any who, in Downtown, I had the Socarrat (chicken, beef, calamari, shrimp, white fish, cuttlefish, mussels, clams, and green beans) and in Midtown I had the Carne (pork, duck, chicken, chorizo, and mushrooms).

The Socarrat was so rich and flavorful. It had bright flavors and not too much of the rice stuck to the pan. We devoured this “Bowl” for two somehow and I still wanted more of it. The Carne, however, was heavy, which left me full instantly. The mushrooms, which I usually put towards the side, were full of the flavors from the meats and the textures were similar, yet all providing something different. It was all so good and it’s even better a day later for lunch.

If you like Paella, Socarrat Paella Bar is definitely worth the trip.