Hunting
for a new eating hotspot this weekend?
You might want to stop by La Boqueria, a two week old eatery located on 3rd Avenue's bustling food corner in Parktown North.
The menu panders to the tastebuds of Jozi’s food lovers by offering a melting pot of world flavours.
This establishment boasts a warm ambiance with its mismatched cabinetry, floor-to-ceiling windows that open into the mezzanine level, giving it a very spacious feel as well. There are colourful scatter cushions on the couches and hanging greenery at the front of the restaurant.
I’m told the décor has a mid-century influence.
Of course, this isn’t a Garden and Home kind of story. It’s about the food and whether it satiates the appetite
Last night, a few foodie writers and bloggers got to sample several things off the menu; all of which were paired with vino from the barrels of a wide-selection of winemakers across South Africa.
There’s also a pretty extensive offering with craft beers, bubbly, tequila, whisky and gin on offer.
So let’s get to the nitty-gritty of this - does it live up to the palates expectations?
There were many hits and a few misses. Again, I must point out, this was a tasting session - not a proper sit down.
I have to commend the chef on the plating of the nibbles: hot fried olives, blistered edamame and hot, sweet and salty blistered peppers. It looked scrumptious, even to someone not partial to veggies.
There were two types of fire-roasted market bruschettas floating around: one was an oxtail marmalade toast and the other was topped with wild mushroom. I loved the first option; it was bursting with flavour and had a lovely crunchy texture.
We also got to try the Baingan fries from the street food section. However, the Serrano+Asiago Croquettas was a winner for me.
It’s the perfect wholesome indulgence for winter. Perfectly soft and yummy on the inside and crunchy on the outside. It was moreish.
On the flip side, the Paella Marisco as well as the Mexicola Chicken kabobs was too bland for me. It was very under-seasoned.
What really bowled me over, though, was the Crying Tiger Beef kabobs; succulent and marinated to perfection. It was beautiful to look at too. I have to warn you, the Drunken Pork Belly will leave you licking your fingers.
My sweet tooth was in heaven with the churros. The dough wasn't heavy like most are after the first bite. Dunking it in that warm, milky chocolate sauce, was the cherry on the top.
You can chose to enjoy your meal in a tapas style or order a main off their poultry, meat and seafood signature dishes.
Also, the owner and his wife travel regularly and are looking to infuse their culinary experiences with the menu.
Bottom line, it’s a vibey spot with unique options for an adventurous palate!