I never noticed the Spanish cultural center in the brownstone on West 14th. It’s both the restaurant La Nacional and a gathering place open to all reflecting Spanish traditions and contemporary culinary practices.

We headed there early one evening and sat outside in their structure as it was a warm evening. Their happy hour had not yet been instituted.

I sampled their Candelas Expresso Martini  ($10) combining freshly brewed Candelas espresso, vodka and a dash of coffee liqueur. My dining partner had their red sangria with red wine, triple sec, peach schnapps and fruit.

I highly recommend their jumbo shrimp ($16 for 8) with lots of garlic and guindilla pepper in extra virgin Andalusian olive oil. The wild mushroom croquettes, croquetas caseras, ($8 for 4) were too doughy for my tastes.  Their grilled octopus  — pulpo a la plancha ($18) — came sliced thin and arranged atop a bed potato crème garnished with crispy parsnip chips.

We’re planning to return to this neighborhood establishment for more tapas once they begin their happy hour menu.

La Nacional
Chelsea
239 W 14th St
New York, NY 10011
lanacional.org