Some dishes are served seemingly straight from the can or jar but don’t suffer at all. In Spain they’d begin with simple pinxtos like the piquant anchovies, olives and the salty, crispy, extra-addictive Marcona almonds. All are basically unadorned, yet as flavorful as the more fussed over counterparts – proof of quality ingredients. But don’t be fooled by the lack of a kitchen or suit-clad servers (Sasa is the main guy and is almost without speech); stashed behind that bar is an array of culinary devices that would grace any well-equipped kitchen. There’s a deep fryer for better-than-classic patatas bravas and a kitchen torch which graces my favorite dish of 2007, so far. The juniper pork is juniper-scented pork belly caramelized with a kiss of the flame and snuggles next to an herbaceous white bean puree.
Although the dishes come from all parts of Spain, some even inspired by Adria’s molecular gastronomy and friend of the bar Wylie Dufresne’s culinary adventurism sometimes it’s the most simple dishes that are the best. A wonderfully airy baguette is served with murky unfiltered olive oil - making a natural foil for simply sautéed chorizo and morcillo (blood sausage).
All of this food was made for wine. Carrera’s list offers a wide selection from all parts of Spain and pieces of Portugal. Over 20 wines are offered by the glass, all for under $10, yet the pours seemed to be on the small side and ordering by the bottle is more economic, if a bit less adventurous. For extra-theatrics order the sparkly Txacoli, a traditional Basque drink, and the bartender will pour it from such great heights encouraging more vigorous bubbles and an applause-worthy performance. Or drink your way through the ports and sherry’s; the tawny port and bitter chocolate combo is nothing less than erotic.
Bar Carrera
175 Second Ave.
New York, NY 10003 nr. 11th St.
?212-375-1555
Bring the younger woman or the carefree, fun-loving adventurous type.
Bar Veloce
175 Second Ave.
New York, NY 10003 nr. 11th St.
212-260-3200
Bring the older woman, the sophisticated executive or the intimate, romantic date.
Run over to Despana on Broome Street to bring the tasty, trendy Spanish food from Bar Carrera home. Look out next year as they will be getting the ultra-rare, extraordinarily delicate Jamon Iberico.
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