La Vina

Sipping a drink while gazing at whole cured ham legs arranged along the counter is one of the distinct pleasures of a Spanish bar. Tucked into the ground floor of Capital Gate Place, Spanish Cuisine Tsukishima La Viña (スペイン料理月島 ラ ヴィーニャ) has gained a loyal following for bringing an unpretentious taste of authentic Spain to the neighborhood. A natural first order is the top-tier Jamón Ibérico de Bellota, cured for 50 months. The fat softens gently at body temperature, releasing concentrated savoriness and a deep, nutty aroma with every chew.

From Casual Tapas to Sizzling House Specialties

The expansive selection of tapas is another highlight of the menu. Sampling small plates available in half portions or picking from an assortment of colorful pintxos makes for an easygoing drinking experience. Standing out in particular is the slow-baked giant mushroom stuffed with cured ham, where the juicy liquid released by the large cap melds cleanly with the salty ham. Other offerings include piping-hot shrimp or white mushroom ajillo meant for dipping bread into flavorful oil, as well as fried potatoes tossed in spicy brava sauce, each composed to pair naturally with wine or beer.

Concentrated Flavors in Paella and Nuanced Sherry Pairings

For the centerpiece of the table, slow-cooked paella is essential. In addition to fragrant saffron seafood paella, the special squid ink paella—where rich house-made sauce infuses every grain down to the toasted, crisp bottom—is a dependable favorite. To close out the meal, order the La Viña Basque cheesecake, inspired by the renowned institution in San Sebastián. Baked with scarcely any flour, the batter remains smooth and softly molten at the center, complementing the lightly bitter caramelized surface with deep cheese flavor. Following the venue's suggestion to pair the cake with an Oloroso-based sweet cream sherry or an intensely sweet Pedro Ximénez enhances the depth of both, leaving a luxurious aftertaste.

With wines by the glass, sherries covering dry to very sweet profiles, Spanish beers, and hours running until midnight, the bar serves well for both relaxed dinners and late-evening second stops. Offering both counter and table seating, it provides an inviting setting for enjoying an evening with good company.