Photo: Stacy Zarin-Goldberg
One sip of my friend's slushito and I knew I was in for a treat at Estadio. This modern day slushie, a combination of pumpkin, scotch, and sherry, tasted like a tangy version of red hot candies. Wowsa. My white sangria was almost as good. And what an unusual combination: rosemary, tequila, apple, and white wine. The mixologist behind these magical drinks should star in the remake of Cocktail. Another round for these friends of mine.
Photo: Stacy Zarin-Goldberg
Tapas at Estadio are sure to give a certain José a run for the bulls. From the cured meats selection we started with a mixto, a salty "taste for all." My favorite: the thin slices of jamon serrano. Next came pintxos, a memorable offering of chorizo, manchengo, pistachio crusted quince on a toothpick. From the sea we had perfectly seared scallops with roasted cauliflower.
Photo: Stacy Zarin-Goldberg
It's not all meat at Estadio. Vegetarians will be happy with the traditional spanish tortilla, creamy mushroom croquettes, and they will ooh and ahh over the veggie bocadillo, bursting with roasted red peppers and onions. It was my favorite dish on the table.
The only dish to disappoint my taste buds was the grilled chicken, which had a hard time standing up next to the others, and at $12 bucks for a small plate of chicken I thought the price was a little steep.
Dessert included an almond cake and an apple tart. Both equally good.
The plates arrived as they were ready and the service was attentive.
I wanted less from the dining room. The Moorish decor was a little too concentrated, just stopping short of over the top, and the big chairs were comfortable, but awkward. I felt like a brontosaurus getting up from the table.
Estadio is located on 14th, a street that has come a long way in ten years. It's a great place for drinks and a few small plates.
