NOW CLOSED...Formerly: While the interior of Terry Alexander's recently deceased MOD evoked a Jetson's space pad comparison, the new space (also designed by Suhail) comes closer to a studly bullfighter's lair. Mosaic-tile walls meet enormous swaths of hairy hide in which glowing red slits give that "just been gashed" impression. Merlot-hued velvet serves as a decoration that would make any bull fume. The distressed concrete floor resembles sand (perhaps sand in a, ah, bullring), and the curvaceous ceilings and walls bear a Gaudi-inspired stamp. In short, blink several times and you still won't miss the homage to Barcelona.
Andrew Zimmerman, who has been cookin' with Alexander since the days of MOD, whips up a menu of both hot and cold small plates that average about $7. Expect Spanish flavors as spicy and exotic as the decor: Menu items range from pumpkin and goat cheese croquettes to sardine and avocado bruschetta. And know that you'll be committing a grave misstep by passing on the much-hyped squid that come stuffed with chorizo and dusted with squid ink. For dessert, try the roasted figs doused in honey and served alongside Mahon cheese-flavored ice cream.
At night, a DJ spins tunes in the lounge to create the perfect vibe for sipping wine. The wine list reps Spain only (no surprise there) and glasses of grape go for about $7. Sunday brunch is offered from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Reviewed By: Jennifer Berg
