It’s been awhile coming, but Chef Grant van Gameren – former culinary genius that helped The Black Hoof gain fame and glory in the city – has finally opened Bar Isabel. Inspired by the pinxtos bars of Spain, Bar Isabel stocks a menu of almost four dozen different plates, great for the share-plate loving YP.
Bar Isabel’s team is impressive: van Gameren, Max Rimaldi (formerly of Enoteca Sociale and Pizzeria Libretto), Guy Rawlings at front-of-house, Brandon Olsen (also from The Black Hoof). A culinary conglomeration like this certainly has the pedigree to take on such an intriguing menu.
Speaking of which, dishes like raw horse and hot sauce, salt cod arancini, stewed tripe with chorizo and egg, and salted chocolate are bound to excite foodies. And there’s a host of cured meats, great cheeses, and bar snacks that are excellent for pre-partying.
The cocktail list is impressive if a little overpriced. But when your cost for food is relatively minimal, you can splurge on expertly crafted drinks like the Absinthe Drip or the Last Word.
Ladies and gents, Isabel’s here to stay.