NYC’s Cozy Spanish Gem That Lost a Star But Kept the Magic 🥘✨
Just had to pause my trip to rave about Casa Mono—this tiny Michelin-darling-turned-underdog Spanish spot is too good to keep quiet. Went at 3PM and scored the last bar seat (perfect for watching chefs work their open-kitchen sorcery). 🍽️ Dish Ranking (Save This List!) 1️⃣ Razor Clams: Garlicky, briny, perfect chew. 🥥 Scallops (TIE): Thai-inspired with coconut-lime foam—unexpected heaven. 🦆 Duck Breast: Skin = Peking duck-level crisp. 🍳 Creamy Egg + Uni: Sweet sea urchin melts into silky custard. 🍞 Foie Gras: Luxe, but too sweet (still ate it all). 🐟 Cod Rice: Boring alone, magic together. ⚠️ Skip: Bone marrow (salt bomb), oxtail (meh). 💫 The Vibe • Service: Impeccable—they read minds (and offer off-menu gems!). • Seating: Bar = best show (no back kitchen = all drama upfront). • Warning: Too delicious—you’ll overeat and kill romance dead. Damage: ~$100/person (worth every penny). Hot take: Michelin snubbed them, but we know better. Your fave NYC Spanish spot? Fight me! 👇 #NYCSpanish #MichelinMiss #CasaMonoLove #FoodComaAlert #NoRegretsEats