Avecita’s ‘Pintxos + Paella’, A New Taste of Spain

Wanting to feel like you have transported to northern Spain?  Then look no further than the Kimpton Seafire’s “Pintxos + Paella” night hosted at Avecita.   As soon as you enter, the restaurant is dripping with Spanish vibes; from hostesses dressed as if they were plucked off of a flamenco stage to the guitarist and drummer playing smooth tunes in the background.  The vegetarian paella station is just off from the bar and you can watch it be made from start to finish, whilst the pintxos are lined up across Avecita’s countertop.  This is not your typical Spanish tapas night in Cayman as the pintxos portions from Basque Country (northern Spain) are traditionally individualised and snack-like as you socialise with friends or family at a bar.  Typically you would expect these small bites to consist of a skewered item, usually to a piece of  bread, and Avecita has done a phenomenal job at sticking to tradition (pun intended) and incorporating their own modern twists.  This theme night strives for authenticity, so food products are imported to give you a true taste of Spain.  Classics including charcuterie and cheese boards, croquetas, patatas bravas and gambas can all be found, but the innovative creations in the form of a chistorra “hot dog” with spicy aioli and kimchi, marinated octopus in sherry and olive oil and burst-in-your-mouth olive spheres are uniquely found at this event.  Your beverage options are plenty with communal cocktails being served through the entertaining (and challenging) porron, a wine glass pitcher used in Spain.  After a quick lesson from the staff you’ll be pouring into your glass (or mouth) like a pro! Take advantage of their discounted beverages, including white and red sangrias by the glass or order a communal cocktail suitable for 2-4 guests (I loved the Birds of a Feather).  Even though you may already be full, save some space for their beautiful and tasty selection of desserts.  With a set price of CI$48 with gratuities for unlimited pintxos and paella, and a selection of crafted cocktails at discounted prices, why wouldn’t you try Avecita’s new Wednesday night.