Tapas have been on the tip of everyone's tongue for the last decade, but one of the best places is also the oldest. Zarzuela has been around for 16 years and is still going strong. Chef Lucas Gasco wrote the book on tortilla espanola and his flaky empanada of the day. He roasts Muscovy duck legs in prune sauce, and gives an earthy essence to white bean stew. The restaurant features a few larger plates such as grilled lamb chops, Castilian-style oxtail stew and paella. The interior has a classic Spanish feel with beamed ceiling, stucco walls and tile floor. Co-owner Andy Debbane orchestrates pitch-perfect service.

 
Specialties: Shrimp sauteed in garlic and olive oil; chicken and ham croquettes; poached octopus; grilled pork tenders; braised quail; paella; zarzuela (seafood stew); crema catalana.

Hours

Dinner 5:30-10 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, until 10:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday.

Cuisines

• Spanish
• Tapas

Features

• Corkage ($12)
• Credit Cards: Accepted
• Delivery/Take out
• High Chairs
• Parking: Difficult
• Parking: Street
• Private Dining Room (For 20 people)
• Seating (50)
• Reservations: No