Pamplona
New York, NY 10016
Phone: (212) 213-2328
- Price:
- $$$
- Cross Street:
- Between Madison Avenue and Park Avenue
- Directions:
- 6 at 28th St
- Hours:
- Mon-Thu 5:30pm-12am, Fri-Sun 5:30pm-2am
Editorial Review for Pamplona – by Justin Hartung
The Scene
Alex Urena closed his eponymous restaurant in the Flatiron District and reopened it as this more downscale, tapas-oriented spot named for a Spanish city. The revamped decor is less formal, although the mirrored walls, round lamp-style chandeliers and hotel-like carpeting create a somewhat impersonal ambience. Fortunately the crowd, a mix of foodies and neighborhood folks, settles into plush banquettes to create their own micro-scenes.
The Food
Chef Urena strives to elevate the presentation of his tapas above bar-food offhandedness. White asparagus, chorizo and quail egg salad creates a color splash worthy of a Miro painting, but the dish's drizzle of green and orange sauce impresses less the second time, accompanying fried manchego cheese balls. Less eye-popping, but still well-prepared, larger plates include moist chicken with leek puree and a generous paella whose only fault is lacking crispy bits. Mint ice cream lends leche frita, a fried milk dessert, extra desirability.
Hits: Tapas so pretty they should be hung in a museum.
Misses: A room seriously in need of an HGTV makeover.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
What to DrinkWines by the glass range from $7-$12. A must-try is the Muga Rioja Rosado ($8), a berry-kissed rose that flatters the food well.
Dine at BarThe white-topped bar up front provides an alternative if the tables are full, and is a perfect spot to watch the chef up close.
Know Before You GoDishes are priced in three groups: tapas, appetizers and main courses.
User Reviews for Pamplona
02/03/2008 Posted by guyfromnyc
We went there last night and really enjoyed it. They were very accomodating with the table especially because we were a party of two. We simply called ahead and they told us when to come in. Upon arrival we were seated almost immediately and not left at the bar like many restaurants. We ordered a nice bottle of the Mano a Mano wine. It was reasonably priced, medium body, not too dry, and delicious without the bite that some wines give on the first sip or two. We ordered 6 different tapas for the two of us and that was plenty of food. Specifically, chickpea fries (excellent), pattatas bravas (a staple and well portioned), Bocadillo de Jamon (a little panini), beer battered cheese fritters (yum), meatballs (great with the parsnip puree), and the chorizo/shrimp skewers over goat cheese toast. Unfortunately they were 86'ed on the tuna or we would have tried that as well. All in all, a great meal with good service. We will definitely go again.
12/25/2007 Posted by dispatcher62002
I enjoyed Pamplona a lot. The maitre d', hostess and waiters were very nice. The new decor makes it easier to feel more relaxed. This is a great place to go for Tapas after work as well as a date. The "chuleton" was amazing. The seasoning makes it, possibly, one of the best steaks out there.
Pros: tapas, main courses
Cons: -
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