Bar Jamon

Good tapas, good wine, horrific service

by CeCe Shelburne

I've been here many times and really enjoyed the tapas and wine selection. So when I brought a friend from out of town recently I was looking forward to a long, fun evening.

We ordered our wine and told the waiter that if space at a table became available we'd like to stay and order tapas as well. Upon which he snapped "WHAT DO YOU PEOPLE EXPECT??? THIS IS A BAR!!! I AM ASKED THE SAME THING ALL THE TIME!! FORGET IT!!"

I said "I didn't mean to upset you" giving him a chance to say, "no problem" or apologize for his unprovoked outburst. Instead he huffed off.

So we left and I apologized to my guest as well. And then called to apologize to my many friends to whom I have recommended the place.

The food may still be good, I wouldn't know and I don't care because I'm never going back.

• Pros: spanish wine selection
• Cons: nasty abusive waiters

Great little tapas place - quick & chic

by jay2002

I discovered this place (like many others) on nights when i could not get a table at Casa Mono around the corner. A tiny room surrounded by wine bottles and shared tables that are packed - it really feels like Spain. The menu is a board on the wall above the preperation station, and involves mostly different types of spanish jamon, cheese, olives, and classic cold tapas such as pane con tomate and tortillas (don't hold me to spelling). The wine by the glass are served in generous large glasses and are delicious. If you like small packed places that feel like people should be smoking and speak in Spanish... this is it. It has become one of my favorites as either pre-dinner or a light dinner.

• Pros: Delicious jamon & cheese, atmosphere can't be beat
• Cons: No warm dishes only cold cuts

Great place to start your eve

by thecfaktor

Great place to get the evening started with one of Mario's fantastic plates. He serves up excellent Spanish style tapas with fantastic cheeses and meats.

• Pros: Amazing charcuterie, cheeses and wines
• Cons: Small space

A COUPLES BEST KEPT SECRET!!

by McPinks

My husband and I love this place for a cozy, intimate chat, great wine and fantastically fresh tapas plates. Don't go if you're looking for a meal! We find that their selection of cheese, shaved prosciutto, and a variety of other Mediterranean snacks are more than sufficient for a light bite. Why would you want to overkill a great bottle of wine anyway? If you're on a budget, their wine list is not for you. We particularly like to go on Sunday through Wednesday nights, as it's communal tables don't seem so cramped, and we're able to find a cozy nook of two bar stools fairly easy. It's pretty cool that it's used as an overflow or waiting room for Batali's restaurant, "Casa Mono" next door, however we like Bar Jamon so much, that every time we make a reservation for Casa Mono, we end up just staying at the wine bar instead. Yes, it's that great! This place is a perfect place for 2 gals wanting to catch up, a first date, an intimate place for any couple, or a fun stop with friends while touring around Manhattan! It truly is a hidden gem, that I wished stayed more of a secret!!!

• Pros: Fresh food, great wine, cozy ambiance, romantic, great area!
• Cons: It's almost self-serve, you have to get up to the bar yourself if you want anything. Sometimes hard with cramped space!

Authentic

by Spain123

I was born and raised in Madrid, so I write with the background to substantiate my review.... Bar Jamon is typical and authentic! it reminds me of a tapas bar in the middle of Madrid. The staff is great and personable, and the food, wine, and beer are excellent. My wife and I stopped by after a Broadway play, and we were able to find seats right away.

I will stop by next time I am in NY for sure.

• Pros: Authentic
• Cons: Can't think of any!