Every time I walk by the old Chelsea Hotel, it’s hard not to get a little sad to see it still under renovation and closed to the public. Thank goodness the old-school Spanish restaurant El Quijote is still going strong.
I love slipping into El Quijote right after work for a drink and a snack. It’s like stepping into a time warp with the waiters dressed in jackets and the historic decor that hasn’t changed in decades.
Though I like the seafood and paella in the dining room, it’s a little out of my price range, so I always opt for the gorgeous bar. Here you can order fairly priced beers and wine by the carafe along with tasty tapas like salt cod croquettes that make the perfect snack. Snag a stool and chat with the other patrons or make friends with the convivial bartenders. Sometimes you’ll even get a complimentary plate of garlic chicken or some other delight that they share with customers at the bar. Just say “gracias”, order another drink, and settle in for the night.
Note: There are recent rumors that a new chef might be on the way, which probably means huge price hikes too. So stop reading and go now, before the whole scene changes!
