Dumbo Bar
What: A delectable pintxo bar
Why: For authentic Spanish drinks and bites from the El Willy Group
Where: 20 Donghu Lu, near Huaihai Lu. Tel: 5404 8085. Web: www.elwilly.com
This cosy and casual venue, which seats just 20 people, is tacked onto the side of elEfante, in the El Willy Group’s ubiquitous antique colonial villa on Donghu Lu. The atmosphere is warm and inviting with a simple marbled bar located at the back of the room and a selection of high tables and bar stools at the forefront. Drinks are kept simple, with a menu consisting of reasonably priced white and red wines (from RMB 48 per glass), rosé (RMB 320 per bottle), cava (RMB 65 per glass), red and white wine sangria (from RMB 170), Spanish beers (RMB 45 per bottle) and signature, flavoured gin and tonics (from RMB 55).
The main reason to come to this pintxo bar is, of course, the bites. This is chef Willy Trullás’ creation after all! The food menu is divided into three sections, montaditos (all priced at RMB 38), tins (all priced at RMB 38) and platillos (all priced at RMB 48). We were impressed with the preserved tuna belly, spicy tomato chutney and baby leaves, which we excitedly gobbled down with a glass of cold white wine. We also enjoyed the tender octopus, confit paprika potatoes and chorizo tin, which we mopped up with the toasted bread provided. Another standout dish was the meatballs and white bean stew; the perfect anecdote to a cold winter day.