While this wasn’t my first time here, the last time I visited was so long ago I barely remember it. And I don’t know why. For a while I even lived just around the corner. Anyhow, I decided to remedy this situation and paid a(nother) visit this week. La Trastienda opened its doors in January 1994 by Manuel Pérez Ponce, who ran it until his death in 2015. Then former employees, led by Manuel Fuentes, took over and were determined not to lose the essence of the bar. Looks like they’ve managed it. It still has the feel of a classic seafood tavern, with a long L-shaped bar on one side and a few high tables running along the wall opposite. The open kitchen is on the right as you enter.

The menu is divided between tapas and seafood, with a nice selection of charcuterie, cheeses and montaditos. Seafood is mainly from Huelva and is sold by weight, though there are a couple of hot dishes (gambas al ajillo, grilled duck liver) as well as daily specials that include grilled meat or fish options. We sat at the bar (recommended) and tried a few of the tapas, as well as the super sizzly gambas. Another visit is required to sample some of the seafood, but we enjoyed everything we had. Good wine list and very friendly bar service. I like that it still has the feel of a cosy neighbourhood bar.

Bread/Service Charge: 0.50€

Alfalfa 8
Tel. 954 21 04 63
Open 12.00 – 16.00 / 20.00 – midnight Tuesday – Thursday
12.00 – 18.30 / 20.00 – midnight Friday – Saturday
12.00 – 16.00 Sunday
€ € € €

Food 8 | Wine 7 | Service 7 | Ambiance 7

smoked salmon with salmorejo

Cantabrian anchovy with torta de serena cheese

caña de lomo

jamón & lomo mechado

gambas al ajillo

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