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Hey food lovers! Have you ever craved a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine, one that goes beyond the trendy foams and gels? As a food blogger always on the hunt for genuine culinary experiences, I recently found myself at Salinas, a charming Spanish restaurant nestled in the heart of Chelsea, NYC. Let me tell you, this place is a breath of fresh air for anyone seeking a taste of Spain’s rich culinary traditions.
A Chef’s Return to Tradition
Salinas marks the return of Chef Luis Bollo to the New York culinary scene. You might remember him from his previous venture, Meigas, where he initially embraced the avant-garde style of Spanish cooking. This time around, Chef Bollo takes a different approach, delving deeper into the heart of Spanish cuisine and showcasing the beauty of traditional flavors and techniques.
And let me tell you, this return to basics is a resounding success!
A Warm and Inviting Ambiance
Stepping into Salinas is like stepping into a cozy Spanish courtyard. The restaurant boasts three distinct spaces: a lively bar and lounge area, a den-like middle section, and a stunning rear dining room. This last space, with its exposed brick walls, gas fireplace, and retractable roof, is the real showstopper. Imagine dining under the stars on a warm summer night, or enjoying the cozy ambiance on a chilly evening – the retractable roof makes it possible year-round.
A word of caution: the dining room is quite dimly lit, so much so that even those of us in our prime might need a little help from our phone flashlights to navigate the menu.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
The menu at Salinas is a love letter to traditional Spanish cuisine, featuring a tempting array of tapas, appetizers, main courses, and desserts. While the pre-appetizer menu might seem a tad excessive (who needs that much food before the actual meal?), it does offer a delightful mix of classic and contemporary dishes.
Here are some highlights that had my taste buds singing:
- Crujiente Mahonés: This simple yet irresistible dish features flatbread topped with a symphony of flavors: melted cheese, sweet honey, earthy thyme, and a sprinkle of sea salt. The combination reminded me of za’atar, the fragrant Middle Eastern spice blend.
- Braised Tripe: Don’t let the name scare you! Chef Bollo works his magic on this often-overlooked ingredient, braising it to melting tenderness with tomatoes and veal feet. The result is a hearty and comforting dish that will warm you from the inside out.
- Pulpo Appetizer: This dish is a testament to Chef Bollo’s ability to elevate traditional flavors. Thin slices of tender octopus, infused with smoky paprika, are artfully arranged atop a bed of creamy puréed potatoes. It’s a visually striking and incredibly flavorful take on the classic pairing of octopus and potatoes.
- Pumpkin and Chicken Soup: This rich and creamy soup is a symphony of autumnal flavors. Imagine tender chicken, sweet pumpkin, earthy broccoli rabe, and chunks of savory chorizo and bacon all simmered together to perfection. It’s the ultimate comfort food for a chilly evening.
- Suckling Pig: This dish is a must-try for any pork lover. The pig is slow-roasted to achieve a crispy skin and incredibly tender, flavorful meat. It’s a true testament to Chef Bollo’s mastery of traditional Spanish cooking techniques.
- Rosejat Rápida: This dish is a flavor bomb in a bowl. Imagine crispy fideo pasta tossed with tender chicken, spicy chorizo, briny cockles, and a generous dollop of saffron aioli. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to lick the bowl clean for.
- Torrija Caramelizada: This classic Spanish dessert is a revelation. Imagine a slender loaf of bread pudding infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, a hint of citrus, and a scoop of refreshing coffee gelato. It’s the perfect sweet ending to a memorable meal.
A few things to keep in mind:
- While most dishes were exceptional, the paella negra fell a bit short. It lacked the depth of flavor I was hoping for and was surprisingly salty on both occasions.
- The wine list leans heavily towards full-bodied, oaky Spanish wines. While these can be enjoyable, they might not be the best pairing for the more delicate flavors on the menu. If you prefer something lighter, I recommend asking your server for recommendations.
Final Verdict
Overall, my experience at Salinas was a delight. Chef Bollo’s dedication to showcasing the authentic flavors of Spain shines through in every dish. While the restaurant might not be pushing the boundaries of modern Spanish cuisine, it excels at what it does best: serving up delicious, soul-satisfying food that transports you straight to the heart of Spain.
So, if you’re looking for a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine, look no further than Salinas. It’s a culinary journey back to basics that will leave you feeling satisfied and wanting more.
For those interested in exploring Spanish cuisine further, here are some resources:
- The Foods of Spain: This book offers a fascinating deep dive into the history and culture of Spanish food.
- Spanish Food Uncovered: This PBS series explores the diverse regional cuisines of Spain.
- The Spanish Table: This website is a treasure trove of Spanish recipes, cooking tips, and cultural insights.
