Post card: The Spanish quarter
Sydney's Spanish quarter is fast becoming a blister on the rump of the ever expanding Chinatown. One of the more popular spots is the aging Captain Torres (73 Liverpool St). Split in two, half of the site serves as a deli and bottle shop during the day, while the restaurant portion is most alive at night.
Walk past the deli and you will see a multitude of hams hanging over the counter, emitting a scent which will either excite or disgust. I can only imagine what the deli must smells like in the middle of summer heat wave. . . I tried two of the hams. The Reserva Serrano (White pig - $A85 per kilogram) and the Pata Negra (Black pig fed on acorns - $A320 per kilogram). The two thin slices of Pata negra I bought set me back five dollars, but the flavour and richness were superb. The slices glistened with fat and even compared to the fantastically enjoyable Serrano, there was a step up in complexity and length.
In contrast to the quality of hams on offer, the wines were disappointing, with the range being limited in quantum and appeal.
I liked the restaurant, though it is (now) unadventurous and stuck in another era (1970s), which seems to appeal to many of the customers. The food is tasty, but, simple in presentation and preparation, with a clear emphasis on the well known. The wine list is surprisingly skewed to house wines, Sangria and well known local brands. The fact that no sherry is listed on the menu (though it is available should you ask), suggests an update is long overdue. . .
6 comments:
A chinatown in a big city is a delight--this is a first--a nestled Spaintown in its environs. I wonder if there are others nesting in other cities' C'towns?
Hey Edward,
Concur on the description of Captain Torres, we went last time I was in Sydney after a wander through the Spanish Quarter. I found it a bit condescending and touristy... Like a Spanish version of Witches Cauldron that hasn't changed in the last 30 years despite really needing to.
I did enjoy the tortilla and chorizo and dodgy sangria though... but that was more to do with the company than the place.
Wow - have been meaning to try those hams, now you've sent me on another expensive and time consuming project.
Genevelyn,
It's nominally a Spanish quarter, but in reality, it's a cluster of Spanish restaurants. Still my daughter and I were excited by the ready availability of jamon and chorizo.
Matt,
I can recall reading your post about Sydney, though in my mind, I had thought it was Dave (from Tinto y blanco) who had mentioned Torres.
Torres could be so much better. . .
Joe,
No thinking about Spanish small goods till you post your Clonakilla tasting note! :)
Edward, give me a call next time you come to Melbourne, I'll show you a real Spanish quarter...
Torres is very much stuck in the 70s, but its a fun night out with a couple of mates. as you say they could do a lot better...they have some great produce in the deli next door.
Dave,
I wish I had more time in Sydney to try some of the other places. Will definately let you know when I finally get to Melbourne (I'm broke at the moment so no idea when that will be. . .)
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