VIBE

Stepping into this lively, shoebox-sized, Michelin-starred resto is like planting yourself in Barcelona–what it lacks in square footage, it more than makes up for with all the atmosphere and delectable aromas you would expect from a top-notch Spanish restaurant. We love sitting at the counter overlooking the kitchen (these seats are first come first serve), but most diners end up packed in at one of the tables. The menu is not your typica tortilla and croqueta packed deal–Casa Mono specializes in haute tapas whipped up from delicacies like duck eggs, cod cheeks, and octopus. But if you prefer to stick a more basic fare (or have friends that do), never fear, you can find that here, too (steak, patatas bravas, jamon and pan con tomate, and the like, are all on the menu).

CROWD

Downtowners and in-the-know foodies

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

A boldly fashionable outfit: killer jeans, a bright, silky blouse, and arty accessories.

GO HERE WITH

A tapas loving friend or two

WHY WE LIKE IT

We love sitting stool top and seeing the magic happen in the open kitchen. (That said, the food is so good it can be hard to take our eyes off our plates long enough to watch.)

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

It’s loud and crowded. Can be fun, or can get old fast.

GOOD TO KNOW

In true tapas style, the menu is best enjoyed by ordering family style. In addition to being offered by the bottle, wine is sold by the cuarto (a quarter bottle), so no wine by the glass is served (makes for a more festive night!). The restaurant cannot accommodate groups larger than six. If you want to plan for a pre-dinner drink (or decide to tough out the wait for a counter seat), don’t miss cozy Bar Jamón right next door (same management, you can even bring wine back and forth between the two establishments), which offers a smaller list of cold tapas and desserts like churros y chocolate.

CLOSEST COMPS

Barrafina (London); Boqueria (New York); Mercat (New York)

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