Located behind Hato Rey's financial district "La milla de oro", El Gsto de Lavapiés is a hidden gem. And I mean hidden. If not for the sign on the door, you'd walk/drive past it and not notice. Even with the sign, you'll likely miss it. Limited private parking, plus street parking. Inside dining only. Interior is intimate. Total of 4 tables. Three small and one large table, good for about 10-12 people. Reservations only. Take out is available.
The waitress told us they opened 3 years ago as a careening service and private Chef's table events. This past year they opened to the public as a restaurant. The name comes from the Madrid neighborhood of Lavapiés, the Chef's hometown.
Service was great. The waitress warmly welcomed us and was more then happy to explain the restaurant's history as well as the menu. The Chef also came out to greet us and explain everything. The menu changes week to week, depending on what he finds at the market and customer feedback.
We started off with their famous croquetas, 3 ham and 3 cod. We also ordered the albóndigas and hojaldradas, rectangular shaped patatas bravas. For the main course we shared the arroz negro con chipirones (black rice with baby squid), arroz xtuleta (rice with ribeye), cachopo (breaded steak stuffed with ham and cheese), and the rabo de res with apio trufado (beef tail with truffled mashed celery). Everything was delicious. I would reorder everything again. The tail was tender. The cachopo and arroz negro were my favorites. I also loved the croquetas. For dessert, they only have a cheesecake. I'm not a cheesecake fan, but everyone at the table enjoyed it.
I hope they continue to grow and I won't be surprised if they move to a bigger location soon because the food and service are great. Put this place on your short list. read more