Tapas Tour: Blue Owl, Bar Carrera, and GRAFFITI

We hadn't seen Neha in a while, so we made plans to hang out and catch up.

We started off the evening with a drink at Blue Owl, a hip bar with classic decor and speak-easy vibe.  The bartender took his time with each drink, and all the ingredients were extremely fresh.  Definitely a place to go if you appreciate a well-mixed cocktail.

Next, we hopped across the street to grab some sangria at Bar Carrera.  DJ (a sangria connoisseur) said this place was a must-try, and he was absolutely right!  The strawberry sangria had a great kick, and the tapas were tasty.  

But after nibbling on a couple of items we realized we were still a bit hungry.  Rather than ordering more, Neha was able to work her magic and add us to her later reservation at Graffiti and we were in!  :)

We say "work her magic" because Graffiti is known for its amazing tapas... and amazing arrangement of seating in a very limited space.  Imagine a NYC brownstone living room with an adjacent kitchen; now imagine cutting it in half.  That's about the size of this place.  The seating area is a feat of physics, with 8 people fitting around a table meant for 4.  And the kitchen is the width of one average-sized adult.  Hence, reservations are a hot commodity.

 Funny thing is, in spite of space limitations this is probably one of the best tapas places we've been to.  The service is friendly, attentive, and prompt; the decor is reminiscent of being in someone's home; and the chef's creative flavor combinations are unexpected and refreshing.  If you're able to get a seat, this place is an absolute must.

 watermelon and feta salad, topped with mint sorbet