Where to get classic Spanish tapas?

[wanderingviolet]

I will be traveling to DC for a long weekend trip and would love to go out for classic Spanish tapas since there aren't any Spanish restaurants where I live. I'll be staying near Dupont Circle and I appreciate any recommendations.

[ktmoomau]

I think the white sangria at Jaleo is great. Definitely more modern than Taberna, but I think both have great items. The asparagus is really good. But those croquettas at Taberna are addictive.

[Jacey]

I have mixed feelings about Jaleo but whatever you do, don't waste your time at Mar de Plata. I had a disappointing experience there.

[reiflame]

I'm with you - I'm surprised so many people like it. I've found the food to be inconsistant and the service is lacking. Maybe it's on an upswing though; I've switched Jaleo out for Isabella's in Frederick for tapas lately.

[DanielK]

Wow, really, Isabella's?

I've eaten there twice because I was in Frederick for other reasons, and both times I felt that I should have driven the 45 minutes to Bethesda for Jaleo instead. Not even in the same ballpark, IMHO.

[wanderingviolet]

Looks like it will be Jaleo as I probably win't get into town in time to take advantage of the Happy hour specials at Taberna del Alberdero if DC traffic lives up to its reputation

[dining with doc]

Jaleo is great

[helenahimm]

I will second Taberna over Jaleo as well, of course depends on your budget and where you are planing to go chinatown area, etc.

If you happen to be in Georgetown I wouldn't recommend to go to Bodega at all, many people when shopping on M st. end up in Bodega... don't waste your money =)

In Jaleo I had the white gazpacho and pork cheeks tapas, Patatas Brava, (3 of them decent). I didn't like the Pulpo a la Gallega (octopus) although I must admit it had an amazing texture. The Sangria is better in Alabardero but Jaleo could be the second decent I've tried in DC area.

If you really want to go to Alabardero and want to save as much $ as possible, try going on Happy Hours.

Cheers and have fun.

[Elyssa]

For real classic Spanish tapas I would go to Taberna del Alberdero. You can sit in their small bar area and get incredible tapas (half off during happy hour Monday-Friday). Pretty much everything on the menu is delicious but I personally find the croquettas addictive.

[Steve]

It's sometimes hard to recreate memories of great culinary experiences abroad.... but Jaleo is successfully delicious. I like the patatas bravas, the tortilla espanol, asparagus with romescu sauce, spinach with raisins, chorizo, and the cod fritters.

[biscuit]

Jaleo is the obvious choice for me. I didn't care for Taberna.