pinch bar

September 15, 2011 By splendid 5 Comments

Tempted by the display of tapas and oysters we dropped into Orio for a quick bite to eat.

Loved this sign – the logo is cut out to reveal the original brick wall.

I liked the concept of this modern day Basque tavern in the center of the Gothic Quarter.

This is called a pinch or “pintxos” bar, which is typical in this area.

Peppers wrapped in an anchovy with green olives.

Here’s how it works: you sit down and order drinks (they sell wine by the inch ~ seriously!}

A red pepper stuffed with some sort of chicken salad and topped with greens.

Then you take your plate to the bar and help yourself to whichever tapas look appealing to you.

Sundried Tomato, Mozzarella, and a marinated artichoke heart.

Each tapas has a toothpick,

Anchovy wrapped caper berry, tops a tomato slice, mound of cheese and a tuna salad.

when you are finished, the waiter counts up how many toothpicks you’ve accumulated and charges you accordingly.

Omelet wrapped in a cucumber slice, topped with something creamy and caviar.

I have to say, the food quality was a little lacking,

but it all looked quite beautiful.

No tengo la menor idea!

Sardines, with some sort of a onion confit and sprouts.

I think this would be a fun way to serve a casual dinner or lunch at home.

I may have “pinched” a few too many delights, the pate with caramelized onions was numero uno!