Salud!

Sure everybody knows that sangria is not probably the highest grade of wine. After all, it's obtained from the third press, the press that is supposedly unfit for consumption. But if you have tried, what we have tried at Zara, then my dearies, that opinion is just about to change.

With over 15 new starters and different varieties of sangria and cocktails to choose from, this one's a veritable treat. The starters are varied and if you thought that Spain had nothing to offer except the usual paella, sausages and omelettes, then think again. From the delicately flavoured cilantro chicken to the robust chickpea salad, it's a delight all the way. There is also the heavenly grilled chicken with basil mozzarella and tomatoes and the honey garlic prawns, which should feature high on the priority list. And the Spanish have also gone a long way in establishing that it is not only the Swiss who make excellent cheeses. Don't believe us? Then try the manchego cheese platter and your opinion will change faster than you can say moo!

When it comes to the sangria, Zara did, for a brief period did have an extensively crafted Sangria menu which had everything from winter woodiness to tropical tastiness. I really wish they would bring it back though!  However, I do recommend the red wine sangria very very strongly. Two glasses and trust me, I’m a happy child! The white wine sangria is also extremely refreshing, with the wine used having a slightly citrusy, sharp note…that plays off beautifully with the crisp chunks of golden fruit. When it comes to cocktails, the highballs (90 ml of alcohol is used as opposed to 45-60 ml which is the usual measure) such as Long Island Ice tea and Bullfrog are definitely worth a shot!

Though Spain is not particularly known for its vegetarian fare, we are pleasantly surprised with the choice of starters on offer. While the Cajun spiced corn kernels is nothing to shout about, the cheese stuffed jalapeno peppers,, served with chunky salsa is a clear winner. Also worth a mention is the mushrooms in red wine and pimentos. Delicately flavoured with garlic and rosemary, this subtle dish is quite strong in flavour.

When we are talking tapas, can chorizo, beef and tenderloin be far behind? Do try the grilled beef tenderloin with potato mash, which is rare, but rendered to perfection. Another hugely popular dish is the Spanish chorizo and baby potatoes. Robust and rich, this one is full of flavour, spice and all things nice. If you are stuffed to the gills after this fabulous feast, then do not despair. Just wash down your meal with yet another heady glass of sangria, and see the world drift by in slow motion. Salud!