Every friendship has a thing, and my thing with Sam is tapas.
Boqueria is among her favorites, and it's a fabulously affordable meal right next to Penn Station. Lots of small plates, perfect for solo diners wanting more than one thing and perfect for sharing if you're out with all your friends.
Tabla de Quesos y Embutidos has an assortment of Spanish meats and cheese, but the real star is the pan con tomate. Thin slices of toast are covered with a cold, wet gazpacho-esque puree, just the perfect taste of summer.
Pimientos de Padron are my favorite preparation (blistered) and served with simple sea salt. Nothing fancy, which is how they should be done.
Croquetas de Jamon - deep fried ham and cream. What's not to like?
I'll never turn down a slice of Tortilla Espanola. In Sam's words, "tastes even better because I didn't have to make it".
Patatas Bravas are their signature standout, and I really never thought potatoes could taste so good. The crust is so crunchy, the inside so fluffy.
Maiz Rustido because why not corn and cheese? This isn't their best dish, but if it's their worst they're doing well.
Gambas al Ajillo, another simple shrimp dish, pumped full of flavor with a strong garlic swimming in olive oil and a perky pepper.
We almost forgot to get Albondigas, a hearty meatball made more juicy by blending beef and pork.
Dessert includes a perfect Flan, the eggy custard in a sherry caramel.
Churros Clasicos are best when dipped in dulce de leche, but you also can't go wrong with hot chocolate or nutella.
It's always good to see old friends, but Boqueria makes it better. A convenient location for commuters, a brief haven for those with kids. There's plenty on the menu for even the pickiest of eaters, and worst case, they do have wine and cocktails. Service is attentive, and the environment is welcoming for any and all.
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