La Nacional Early Dinner

La Nacional is one of the best values in the city. This Valencia inspired restaurant features an amazing atmosphere, warm service and sublime food. Helmed by Chef Paco - this place serves exquisite tapas and paella. The open kitchen and bar make the place look smaller yet more authentic Catalan charm.

We came in at a very early 4pm for happy hour / dinner - and it was a marvellous experience. It was also the only reservation slot we could land - La Nacional is a very very popular place. And we were the only non Spanish table! It’s definitely a hit with the local (Spaniards).

Every dish was above 7/10. I have to mention my daughters’ Mac and Cheese - a humble dish but made with Spanish flair using manchego cheese and pesto. This was also 7.5/10

The patatas Bravas (brave potato’s) was 7/10.

The pulpo was easily a 7/10

The paella was exquisite. This was 7.5/10 at the very least. Unlike the variants we get back in asia - every morsel of seafood came through, it was moist and succulent - every grain of rice, every mussel, every squid ring.

Pure brilliance from this age old establishment. It literally flies the Spanish flag up high in NYC. Not to be missed. Total damage USD135 including gratuities.