Madeleine Pearce

Review of Bar Isabel

This restaurant is so overhyped it hurts. After ha...

This restaurant is so overhyped it hurts. After having a reservation for over a month, I was disappointed.

Service was average, though our waitress took time to explain certain dishes to us.

The interior takes the term grunge to a new level of ugly. Dinner conversation becomes a screaming match between you and the table of flannel-clad patrons at the table next to you.

To eat:

Sobrassada, Foie Gras & Honey Montadito: It was good. Probably the best thing we had, albeit a little too sweet.

Roasted Bone Marrow: A hot greasy mess.

Patatas Bravas: You can't really screw this one up.

Cheese Plate & Beef Carpaccio: Three cheeses selected by the chef, possibly the three most conveniently located closest to the plating station and a carpaccio you might get at a mediocre banquet hall.

1/2 Grilled Octopus: Supposedly the show piece of the restaurant, but nothing special.

Wine selection by the glass is basic. I have happily paid $12-19 per cocktail but unhappily did so at Bar Isabel.

Overall: Wouldn't go back, wouldn't suggest anyone wait a month to spend their money there.

If you are looking for great tapas go to Portland Variety for similar food and price point, better service, better atmosphere and perhaps a conversation over dinner that doesn't consists of "what did you say?!"