Boqueria W40th

My boyfriend and I came to eat after going to the movies. Our reservation was at 6:15 but we got there a hour early. They said they could seat still. We were happy. We got seated outside which was fine with me. The waitress asked us what we wanted to drink and started with apps. We asked for sparkling water. We needed some more time to look over the menu. Seated next to us was a cute elderly couple. They had the paella, massive. Of course, we wanted the paella, instantly when we saw it. The couple finished their food and asked the waitress for a cappuccino. We spoke to the couple and we ordered the cheese charcuterie board. Very yummy. I’m gluten free and my boyfriend has a severe nut allergy. So they made accommodations for us. As we were eating, I noticed the couple still didn’t receive their coffee. I called over a waiter and said it’s been over 25 minutes, they’re waiting on their cappuccino. The waiter was sweet and said he would check on it. Our waitress came back and took our plates. She asked what we wanted next. We both agreed on getting the seafood paella since the older couple plate looked so good. She said it took 45 minutes and if it was okay. We said sure, it was fine. The manager brought out the cappuccino and did take it off the couples bill since they did wait a really long time. I was happy. We waited for our food and it started raining. We didn’t mind the rain, it added to the night. Listening to the rain hit the roof. It was nice. The soft breeze of cool air made sitting outside more desirable. Another couple was seated in the corner where the elderly couple sat. Very happy and nice. As the night progress, I noticed we all including another dinner table could hear this nerve wreaking, soul scratching sound. It was the back door the waiters and waitress were coming through. At first, I ignored it but as the night went as we’re waiting for our food, I’m sorry, I couldn’t take it. I told my boyfriend, “the door is screaming WD-40.” At some point everyone next to me was noticing the loud sound coming from the door. We continued our conversation, with me staring at the door. Our paella comes out and it’s small and it looks amazing. The seafood was tender and delicious. The flavors at the surface were on point. When I took the first scoop out, I hit something hard. I’m thinking maybe it’s a clam shell, but it wasn’t. It was burnt black rice, not the cocholón that’s suppose to be at the bottom. It gave the dish a burnt taste at the end of each bite. I sipped sparkling water after every bite and noticed my boyfriend doing the same. We finished the paella and the waitress asked how the food was? I was honest, I told her it was burnt. She tried to explain, it’s suppose to be. I said no, paella is not suppose to be burnt. The rice at the bottom is suppose to brown and crispy. Not burnt and black. I actually recently made paella for my kids 3 weeks ago. So, I know how to make and the ingredients, time and preparation, that required for paella. She said she’d tell her manager. The manager did come to our table and I explained what happened to the food. The manager agreed, she took the paella off the bill. She even gave us free apps next time we come back. My boyfriend said he’d love to come back. I said I was down to come back. I was impressed how they handle everything. Not one mean thing or misunderstanding. My boyfriend and I look forward to coming back. Our experience was fun and the food was good outside of the burnt paella. The alcoholic drinks were super yummy. And we appreciate the accommodations because of our allergies. My boyfriend is allergic to nuts and we have already experience him going into anaphylaxis at another restaurant. So, the accommodation made us feel safe and comfortable. 4/5 is a great in my book!

We and our 2 kids arrived at AC hotel worn out from a cruise. Keith and the waitstaff took awesome care of us, and the food was unbelievable. Best Paella we've ever had, and we spent 2 weeks in Spain last year! Plus, 2 of us are Celiac and they were very attentive to this. Can't wait to go back!