Spanish deli, supplier to the city’s Iberian restaurants and most recently, a tapas haven, El Bierzo feels like it could be a step or two from Plaza de Catalunya. Alas, this Hispanic gastronomic cave is in sleepy Montparnasse. Calamari, croquettes, choquitos, boquerones, patatas bravas and even Pata Negra ham – all typical sharing plates at the very reasonable price of €4 to €5. The owner began with a tapas bar in Bastille and has returned to his roots with this spot.
There’s all the classic Spanish foodstuffs in the deli: olive oil, turon and jams. The wine cellar spotlights Rivera del Duero, Rioja Crianza or the Sangre de Torto from €8; don’t miss the super-dry apéritif sherry Tio Pepe (€22). And if you have the time, try the stellar Serrano ham from El Bierzo’s sister store, a charcuterie, just a few metres away.
TRANSLATION: MEGAN CARNEGIE