Romance, Roses & Sangria: Salinas | NYC

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This was perhaps my last birthday celebration in New York City, therefore it was celebrated at Salinas NYC with delicious sangria, delectable food and the one I love.

Located in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, Chef Luis Bollo’s Salinas showcases Spanish Mediterranean cuisine in a romantic, garden setting that will transport you to Spain. Romantic Restaurant NYC - Salinas NYC

As you walk in there is an intimate lounge and bar to you left. Ahead is the main dining room and a garden retractable glass roof towards the end.
Bar, Main Room, Garden Room - Salinas NYC

Bar, Main Room, Garden Room - Salinas NYC

It’s not often that I find delicious Spanish cuisine in New York City, but the food & wine at Salinas is especially delicious.
Salinas NYC

Beautiful fresh flowers arrive weekly from Ecuador that adorn this stunning restaurant. Salinas is easily one of the most romantic Spanish restaurants I have been to, and one that is now close to my heart. Flowers Salinas NYC

Sangria
Tinto Seco: Prepared with Spanish red wine, brandy, pomegranate, ginger, orange and lemon. This sangria was lightly sweetened with a hint of orange. Absolutely delicious and the best sangria I’ve had to date. A favorite.

Small Plates/Para Picar
Coliflor Con Remolacha: Flash fried multicolored cauliflower, baby beets citrus yogurt, and pimenton de la vera. The cauliflower was smoky and had a subtle bacon flavor. The citrus yogurt at the bottom was unique. Well made.
Coliflor Con Remolacha - Salinas NYC

Croquetas Del Dia: The fried croquettes were outstanding and melt in your mouth delicious. Soft, creamy interior that paired beautifully with a cumin aioli sauce. A favorite.

Spanish Rice/Arroces
Seco Paella: Spanish rice prepared with chicken, scallops, peas, octopus, prawns, monkfish, shitake and chorizo. Perfectly cooked rice with tender fish and so flavorsome. I ended up having leftovers and the paella tasted even better the next day. A favorite.
Seco Paella - Salinas NYC

Mains/Platos

Fish of the Day: The branzino was cooked to perfection and flavored with lots of olive oil. The white flaky fish was deboned and flaked off with the touch of a fork. The potato that accompanied the fish was so delicious. Although I really enjoyed the branzino, I wasn’t wowed by it. Beautiful presentation though!
Fish of the Day - Salinas NYC

Dessert/Postres
Migas Sevillanas: Seville style honey and olive oil cookie crumbs, crispy cocoa meringue, truffle, marcona praline topped with chocolate gelato and sea salt. The cookie crumbs had a bold flavor of olive oil. A good dessert to have if you are looking for something traditional or gelato.
Migas Sevillanas - Salinas NYC

RESTAURANT REVIEW: Salinas
COST: $$$
CUISINE: Spanish/Mediterranean
FAVORITES: Red Wine Sangria | Croquetas Del Dia | Seco Paella
VERDICT: 4.25 / 5
It’s not often that I dine at Spanish restaurants, and when I have in the past, often times I have been disappointed. Salinas NYC is one of the best and most romantic restaurants I have been to, and definitely a good first date spot. I was seated in the garden room which is absolutely beautiful and feels like a dream, additionally it is the perfect spot to people watch. The service here is great, and I believe most servers were of Spanish origin. You can’t leave Salinas without ordering sangria, it is incredible. Furthermore, the croquettes are a must! Given the portion sizes, Salinas is rather pricey, but then for intimate ambiance like that, you will quickly look past it. Highly recommended.
Food: Excellent | Drinks: Excellent | Décor: Romantic/Intimate | Service: Professional/Friendly Value: Pricey

LOCATION
136 9th Ave.
(chelsea)

What’s your favorite Spanish restaurant in NYC? What’s your favorite Spanish dish?