September 12, 2008

9/11 Restaurant Review - Bar Pintxo, Santa Monica

The good: HUGE assortment of Spanish wine and tapas, for a decent price, with friendly and accommodating service.

The bad: Muy uncomfortable stool-chairs.

Our party of 9 enjoyed 6 bottles of wine and probably 20 tapas, for about $500.

This is probably the way to do Bar Pintxo - not for a comfortable, quiet, culinary dining experience - but with a group of wine-loving friends who are too busy enjoying each other's company, and daring one another to eat a shrimp head, to focus much on the quality of the food itself (or lack thereof).

So, go with friends, drink some wine, and enjoy the tapas just as a constant stream of "things" to try, but don't expect any show-stoppers.

4 comments:

Sharon said...

IF you're in the mood for the latter mentioned culinary experience, venture East of the 405 and make a reservation at AOC on 3rd Ave just West of Crescent Heights. Voted highly everywhere, AOC has the largest winebar in the city and offers wines by the glass on hundreds of bottles. Go, and be sure to order the parmesan stuffed, bacon wrapped dates.

Nikki Shlosser said...

Thanks for the recommendation Sharon! I have heard of AOC, and have not been... that will be our next place to try. :)

John Spezzano said...

Another great wine bar is in Hollywood called Vinoteca Farfalla at 1968 Hillhurst. It's not the best place for pinching a penny, but the wine selection is nice and I think it's a cozy little joint. If you're in the mood for a glass or two and some small food, check it out.

Nikki Shlosser said...

John, I've actually looked into that place - I think for a place to go before the Greek Theater. Haven't gone yet though - thanks for the recommendation! Always looking for cozy places to drink wine...