The newest jewel on the Tatel brand’s crown, Tatel Beverly Hills debuted last evening in the former Nic’s space on North Canon Drive. Celebrity Iberian athletes Rafael Nadal, Cristiano Ronaldo and Pau Gasol are all part of the investment team behind this high-end Madrid-style terraza concept, with Michelin Star Chef Luigi Fineo helming the kitchen. Live music, dim lighting and lively social vibes pervade throughout.
Cocktail: Sin Nombre (Green Chartreuse, Vermouth, Orange Bitter)… A very well-poured aperitivo.
Onto the food! ¡Buen provecho!
Jamón ibérico de bellota… The premium ham slices here were cut too thick, which detracted from its full enjoyment. The pan tumaca accompanying was quite tasty, though.
Tortilla española (Tatel Classic), with black truffle… Splendid!!! Huge bite! The tortilla was served nice and warm (but not piping hot), with the egg slightly runny in the center. Though the truffle was supposed to work its magic, I found its aroma and taste to be virtually undetectable in this dish (something which I was actually kinda glad about, since it allowed me to focus on the potatoes and eggs). This is the best Spanish tortilla I’ve yet experienced ion Southern California - Try this!
Seeing a server rush by with what looked like a beautifully cooked arroz dish, I just had to order it for myself…
Carabineros paella… Perfectly cooked carabinero prawns topped this classic Spanish dish. The complex sofrito used in the paella obvious involved using the shrimp heads (this scored big points with me). I quite liked the wonderful reminder of the giant prawns as I ate every grain of the rice. Though imbued with flavor, it’s a shame that the arroz arrived too moist. Despite me asking my server in advance to allow the paella more time to cook in the kitchen, alas there was little socarrat to be had, as the rice I received should have stayed on the fire just a tad longer.
Dessert time!
Tatel World Famous Cheesecake… Basque in style, this was a nice little treat. I enjoyed it with a cappucino to round out my meal.
El retrete…
I hope the management hires or trains someone to care for that beautiful jamon a bit better…
With indoor, outdoor and bar seating, Tatel Beverly Hills hopes to import the frenetic, highly social terraza scene from Spain for all Angelenos to discover. Late night local diners will be happy to know that, true to the Spanish spirit, the kitchen stays open quite late, and especially so on Friday and Saturday nights. I’ll definitely try to return for more of the Spanish dishes from Chef Fineo’s menu.
RECOMMENDED.
Tatel Beverly Hills
453 N. Canon Dr.
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
424.380.7902
tatelrestaurants.com/beverly-hills
