We haven’t been back to Bar Pintxo in quite some time so being in the neighborhood around 4 we couldn’t pass up the Happy Hour deal of 6 tapas for $6.00. The high tables have been replaced by low tables with chairs – much more comfortable and more conducive to dining rather than just snacking.
You can sit at the bar, or tables in the rear or outside on the patio.
The open kitchen
This is Joe Miller’s restaurant and he happened to be there. It was terrific to get reacquainted with Joe as we have known him for over 30 years when he was the chef at Brentwood Bar and Grill.
David Plonowski is the executive chef. We had a chance to chat and his philosophy of cuisine exactly mirrors mine – superior ingredients using precise technique and skill with a keep it simple approach – in other words let the ingredients shine.
Beer for John plus delicious olives
Wine for me
6 Pintxos for $6 – each one was delicious
Tuna Concerve, Anchovie, Cornichon
Mejillones Escabeche
Serrano Jamon, Manchego Cheese, Fresh Tomato
Huevos Rellenos con Vinagretta Vasca
Mushroom Escabeche
Chorizo y Tomate
Calamar a la Plancha – seared calamari with garlic, lemon, parsley, olive oil – the calamari was cooked perfectly and the sauce was perfect for bread dipping
I overheard Chef Plonowski have his sous chef taste a paprika sauce he was working on. Not being exactly shy, I asked for a taste. It was delicious and as a special treat the chef made the above dish. On bread from Spain, chickpea puree, smoked paprika sauce, red wine braised octopus, Pedro Jimenez reduction – what a treat.
Chorizo with crispy potatoes
We won’t wait so long to return to Bar Pintxo – it is definitely worth a return visit.
0 Responses to “Bar Pintxo – Santa Monica”