"The food's excellent, always. ALWAYS. Had the gazpacho AGAIN, because it's just that good. Creamy, with deep rich tomato, blended with other veggies, spices, and great quality oil, there's none better in the City. And for the first time, I had the squid in its own ink with rice. It was excellent. The squid had a natural sweet creamy quality, while the ink broth was that wonderful salty earthy combo of oceany and mossy goodness that it should be. The Albariño by the glass was the perfect accompaniment to this dish. The service is attentive and friendly, always. Always. Our server and those who brought the food to the table were gracious, quick witted and very helpful. They didn't miss a beat. Even the maitre d' was playful and friendly in the midst many guests at once. The staff is really a sweet group of people, and which really adds to the experience. The space is problematic, always. Especially in summer. Open to the street, there's no temperature control on hot days. And for heavens sake PICK ONE: music or the sound for the large TV screens. Both at once are too much and cancel each other out. Nobody, NOBODY is listening to either. The music and the TV screens and the ceiling fans and the Lincoln tunnel traffic on facing 30th street (replete with horns and sirens) are really too much to compete with, especially when your tables and chairs invite guests to relax way back from the table. I looked around and everyone was sitting forward on the edge of their seats straining to hear their table companions. Other than the space issues, the Spanish Diner at Mercado Little Spain gets all the stars I can give it."
