I have never tasted paella before so I was excited about Saturday night dinner at this tiny Spanish restaurant in Middle Park. Wednesday and Saturday nights are Paella Nights at Santiago.
We ordered 2 paellas to share between the 7 of us but it was a disappointment because the paella was a little bit too soggy; taste almost like a risotto.

Traditional Paella (sorry no proper pic of the paella because everyone was very hungry) and Black Squid Ink Paella.

Tapas dishes L-R:
PIMIENTOS del PIQUILLO RELLENOS de ATUN* – House specialty! Sweet roasted peppers stuffed with fresh tuna, dressed with a parsley, cream and red pepper coulis. A visual and taste sensation.
QUESO de CABRA FRITO con MIEL – Rich, hot goat’s cheese drizzled with honey & parsley.
PANCETA FRESCA ASADA con COMPOTA de MANZANAS y ALBAHACA – Roasted pork belly with stewed apple drizzled with basil oil.
CHORIZO al VINO – Santiago famous homemade Spanish sausage cooked in red wine and topped with a dollop of crème fraiche
ZANCARRON de CORDERO GUISADO – Braised lamb shank, slow cooked to perfection
ALBONDIGAS – Traditional meatball dish, served in our chef’s famous tomato sauce.
The braised lamb shank was absolutely delicious and was cook to perfection.
GRAN SANTIAGO BOARD – A board of Spanish cheeses including Manchego 100% sheep from Castilla, Valdeon Azul (blue goat/cow from Asturias, Mahon 100% cow from Baleares, Serrano Jamon (cured Spanish ham), roasted almonds with paprika and Salchichon (Spanish salami). Served on a board with dried fruits and quince paste.
There were more quinces than cheese in the cheese platter *scratches head*. I tried the Mahon cheese and a small piece of the Serrano Jamon ham since DJ insisted its different from other ham. Liked the cheese but not the ham. Too porky to my likings.
I highly recommend their traditional Spanish hot chocolate with real melted Spanish chocolate if you are a serious chocolate lover. *two thumbs up*
Sorry no photo of the hot chocolate because it was too yummy and I finished it within minutes
Overall, the food in Santiago was just moderate. Be prepared to wait for your orders because there is only 1 waiting staff working at the dining room upstairs. I still do think Movida serves better tapas and I am still on a search for a Spanish restaurant that serves good paella.
Posted: July 22nd, 2008 under Munchies.
Comments: none