I first met sommelier Abraham Harillo in 2016 when he and his uncle Álvaro were running La Cata Ciega in calle Zaragoza, which soon became a neighbourhood favourite but then sadly closed after Covid lockdown in 2020. So in September 2022 I was happy to see that Abraham was back with a new solo venture simply called La Cata (The Tasting), featuring a short list of classic tapas and an ever-changing wine list with approximately 30 references available by the glass. La Cata is in a great central location in the heart of El Arenal, between the Cathedral and the river. The attractive corner space is divided between a dining area and a bar with high tables and stools with lots of windows and a wine-themed decor.

Although I was sad to not find my favourite mojama paté on the menu this most recent visit (I’ll keep the photo here in case it comes back) I discovered an unexpected new favourite… the artichoke and prawn ensaladilla (big surprise for me as I’m not usually an ensaladilla fan). The smoked sardines are also delish and don’t miss their star dish of smoked eel with pickled red onion and horseradish mayo. There are stews that come either as tapas or raciones (large plates) and a selection of other typical dishes that are available as raciones. Friendly personal service, a perfect spot for wine lovers.

Bread/Service Charge: 1€

Pavia 12
Tel 659 32 85 65
Open 13.00 – 16.00 / 20.00 – 23.30 Wednesday – Sunday
€ € € €

Food 8 | Wine 10 | Service 8 | Ambiance 8

Cantabrian anchovies on buttered toast

artichoke and prawn ensaladilla

mojama paté (please come back!)

smoked eel, picked red onion, horseradish mayo

ensaladilla de puchero with hierbabuena mayo

smoked bacalao (salt cod) with salmorejo

chicharrón de Cádiz taco

sardina de la casa

cured albacore tuna belly

smoked sardine on avocado

smoked fish paté

tuna ijada (flank)

presa Ibérica mechada

carne al toro

Barbate tuna in tomato sauce

arroz con pringá

carrillada de jabalí (wild boar cheek)

solomillo al whisky

brioche torrija with baileys ice cream

Abraham Harillo

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Updated February 2025