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El Pote Español
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
El Pote Español
8.0
For decades, El Pote Español has served Castilian-style paellas and seafood platters in a brick-walled Murray Hill dining room. Regulars come for big-format rice dishes, sangria pitchers, and old-school hospitality instead of flash.
Must-Try Dishes:
Paella Marinera, Mariscada en Salsa Verde, Chorizo al Vino
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Long-running Spanish spot known for paella and hearty seafood plates.
Who should go: Groups craving classic paella and sangria in comfort.
When to visit: Weekend dinners for full-room energy and shared platters.
What to order: Paella Marinera, mariscada verde, chorizo al vino.
Insider tip: Share one paella and appetizers; portions easily feed two or more.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive in the evenings; nearby paid garages are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but many diners lean business-casual to dressy.
Noise level: Moderate — lively during peak hours but still allows for comfortable table conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetable paella, tapas, salads, and several vegetable-forward sides
Vegan options: Limited — primarily vegetable tapas and simple rice or grilled vegetable plates
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free seafood, rice, and meat dishes; confirm sauces with staff
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a relaxed, sit-down dinner than a quick first-date drink — the focus is on shared dishes and long conversations.
Can I get a table without a reservation? On weeknights, yes with some flexibility; on weekends, reservations are strongly recommended, especially for paella.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — family-friendly atmosphere with shareable dishes that work well for older kids.
Best For
Better for: Traditional Spanish comfort cooking, big-format paellas, and unfussy old-school hospitality.
Skip if: You’re looking for modern small plates, flashy tapas, or a trendy cocktail-driven Spanish menu.
El Pote Español
8.1
This Asturian-influenced neighborhood stalwart has anchored Murray Hill since 1977, serving generous portions of home-style Spanish fare in a cozy brick-walled setting. The paella draws loyal regulars, and the sangria packs an honest punch that keeps the after-work crowd returning.
Must-Try Dishes:
Paella Valenciana, Gambas al Ajillo, Calamares en Su Tinta
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Nearly five decades of consistent home-style Spanish cooking at neighborhood-friendly prices
Who should go: Paella lovers seeking authentic portions without pretense
When to visit: Early dinner before theater or late lunch for quieter seating
What to order: Paella Negra, gambas al ajillo, white sangria
Insider tip: The owner often visits tables during dinner service to ensure satisfaction
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 2nd Ave near E 38th St; metered spots available but competitive after 5pm. Nearby garage on 37th St runs $20-30 for 2 hours.
Dress code: Casual - jeans and sneakers perfectly fine. This is a neighborhood spot where comfort trumps fashion; come as you are.
Noise level: Moderate - cozy brick interior absorbs sound well. Conversation flows easily without raising voices.
Weekend wait: 15-25 minutes without reservation; rarely packed but paella takes 25 min to prepare so plan accordingly
Weekday lunch: No wait typically; popular with nearby office workers but turns tables quickly
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - Spanish tortilla, gazpacho, vegetable sides, white asparagus. Traditional meat-and-seafood-focused menu.
Vegan options: Very limited - salads, gazpacho (verify preparation), sautéed vegetables. Not a strong suit; call ahead.
Gluten-free options: Moderate options - seafood dishes, grilled meats, and rice-based paellas work well. Staff accommodating but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Good for casual dates where you want conversation over pretense. The cozy, no-frills atmosphere takes pressure off. Not ideal if you're trying to impress with ambiance - choose Toledo instead for that.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Almost always yes. El Pote rarely fills up despite its quality - it's a true neighborhood secret. Friday/Saturday dinner might have a short wait, but walk-ins are the norm here.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - casual atmosphere, generous portions easy to share, and staff accustomed to families. No dedicated kids menu, but chicken dishes and tortilla española work well for younger palates. High chairs available.
How strong is the sangria really? Legitimately potent - multiple reviewers warn it 'sneaks up on you.' The fruit at the bottom soaks up the alcohol. Pace yourself, especially with the pitchers. Two glasses is plenty for most.
Is the paella worth the 25-minute wait? Absolutely - it's made to order, not sitting in a warmer. The Valenciana with chorizo is the signature; regulars swear it rivals versions they've had in Spain. Order it as soon as you sit down.
Best For
Better for: Generous portions at fair prices, no-fuss authenticity over Instagram aesthetics, groups sharing paella and pitchers of sangria, or when you want to feel like a regular even on your first visit
Skip if: You want modern tapas, trendy cocktails, or a scene - El Pote is proudly old-school. Also skip if you need extensive vegetarian options or are looking to impress with decor