Ortega review
Having eaten in tapas bars in Madrid and Granada, both of which claim to be the birthplace of tapas, we were looking forward to seeing whether Ortega, the new tapas bar in the Theatre District, was authentic. The original meaning of ‘tapas’ is ‘a lid’ - to keep the flies out of the wineglasses a piece of bread was the first ‘lid’. This then progressed to a variety of small dishes, each served with a glass of wine.
We were not disappointed; Ortega is as good as it gets outside Spain. The décor and ambiance is all very Spanish, some but not all of the waiting staff speak the language, and even the music is suitably loud and true to life. The freshness and authenticity of the food was spot on and certainly hit the mark. For those who are not up to speed on the etiquette of tapas, you traditionally pick a number of dishes all at once. The portion sizes are small but then so is the price. They all come to the table at once and you get to sample a range of different foods and flavours.
We chose to pick six tapas dishes between the two of us to see how we got on, you can always order more if you are still feeling peckish. We went with a couple of classic tapas dishes Tortilla Espanola (potato tortilla with egg and onions) and Patatas Bravas (deep fried potatoes in a spicy tomato sauce). Both had a wonderfully authentic taste and the portion sizes were just right. We also chose two fish/seafood dishes; Gambas pil pil (garlic prawns) and Chanquetes (fried whitebait with aioli). The prawns were really garlicky which is how they should be and the whitebait was probably some of the best we have ever tasted. We finished off with two meat dishes; Albondigas (pork and beef meatballs in a tomato sauce) and Lentejas con chorizo (traditional Spanish chorizo cooked with lentils). The meatballs were rich and juicy and the chorizo warm with a bit of a spicy kick to it.
Although you don’t have to have garlic-flavoured dishes, it does play a big part in Spanish cooking.’ Aioli’ is a Spanish garlic mayonnaise and it does come with a lot of the dishes. Luckily we are both big fans, but it is something to bear in mind. There are other non-tapas dishes available such as paella, steaks and chicken or fish skewers (kebabs). But if it is your first time tasting the Spanish way of cooking then the multitude of tapas dishes on offer has to be given a go.
And don’t forget to leave room for your dessert! They have a number of options including the simply wonderful Crema Catalana (a light custard dessert with a crispy caramel top) or Tarta de Chocolate (layers of dark, milk and white chocolate mousse on a crispy base). You can then finish off the meal with a selection of coffees.
The restaurant also has a large bar area where you can relax with a drink after work or enjoy a night out sampling the delights of Sangria with friends. An extensive wine list compliments your meal or you can choose from a range of draught or bottled beers.
A tapas restaurant is a very social experience, the plates are all put on the table together for everyone to share and try. Ortega does this very well and creates a great atmosphere with very knowledgeable staff. It would be equally good to share with a partner or a friend, or for a larger group celebrating a special occasion. Ortega gets the basics right with very tasty, freshly-prepared food, giving you the true taste of Spain.
Ratings:
Atmosphere: 8/10
Menu range: 9/10
Quality of food: 8/10
Service: 9/10
Value for money: 8/10
Summary:
Overall this a great Spanish experience that everyone should try at least once. But if you enjoy it you will find it slightly addictive! You’ll find yourself saying, ‘I don’t really feel like cooking tonight’ and the next thing you know you’ll be walking through the door and ordering your favourite mix of tapas dishes and a cold beer. This is easy dining out and means you don’t have to think too much or spend too much to have a really good night out and come away feeling very full up indeed.
Facilities:
Children’s menu
There is no children’s menu but as the tapas dishes are small these would be suitable for children.
Disabled facilities
Restaurant is all on one level and has wide doors so gives easy access.
Parking
Parking can be difficult and expensive during the day around the shopping centres. Although there is a free multi-storey car park just 50m away.
Other amenities
Separate bar area allows for a drink before or after your meal. Look out for special theme nights and special offers such as the Fiesta Tapas menu.
