Traditional essence with a modern edge
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| Green beans, cockles, sherry vinegar |
Many new high-end openings from around the world have been focusing on cutting-edge, creative modern cuisine. Every once in a while is nice to revisit traditional cooking. A'Barra in Madrid was an interesting one for me, as the setting has a very contemporary feel to it, but on the other hand, the menu has a classic theme with many dishes served tableside and based on a type of protein next to some garnishes. For those who enjoy something a little bit edgier, the place also has a bar dining where you can go for a more creative tasting menu format.
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| Artichoke, hare, pork jowl, langoustine |
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| Menier, hazelnut, onions |
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| Lobster, Iberico lard, white wine |
For my first course, I had the artichoke cooked in a hare and Iberico ham broth, with some langoustines delivering a soft sweetness. My lobster course was stunning. I really liked the use of a thin slice of Iberico ham wrapped around the sweet lobster, which delivered a bold savoury umami taste and it totally uplifted the fresh taste of the lobster. The main event of the red partridge was slow cooked in orange and cinnamon, the meat was super tender, and absorbed all the lovely spices flavours, it was a really comforting dish.
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| Slow-cooked partridge, orange, cinnamon |
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| Cake with sudachi sphere, ivory mousse and blood orange ice cream |
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| Hazelnut and chocolate dacquoise sponge cake, dulcey ice cream |
The service had a touch of old-school charm to it as well, it had a great balance of professionalism and humor, despite their limited English. A'Barra for me is what modern-age fine dining is all about, serving good food in a lovely contemporary dining space with caring service to match. The Michelin 1 star status for me is just right and if I ever return, I would be keen to try out its counter tasting menu to see another side of the restaurant.
Food 4/5
Average cost without drinks and services:
£120 (dinner)
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