El Mariachi Tapas — Restaurant in City of Albany

Dive-y little place on Lark, only open I believe certain days as staff rotate between here and their main location near the Plaza. Have whatEVER the longtime bartender gentleman recommends! Our first time here we walked in and we were the only ones there. It was actually during the St. Patrick’s Day parade. This spot was where we felt the most welcome! Upon arrival you could smell a spicy, garlicky goodness wafting from the kitchen. We received menus and when the bartender/server came to our table he said, “can I order something for you?” I said “absolutely! it smells wonderful, whatever’s is going on in the kitchen.” He brought a sizzling plate of shrimp in a garlic oil sauce with crusty bread to dip in it, and it was heavenly. I’ve never had a bad meal here or at the flagship restaurant El mariachi....

The tapas selection is varied and promising, and the mararitas were amazing. Tried the Paella, the Pimientos Reyenos De Queso Cabra, the Pulpo a la Gallega and one other dish. The paella was good, but had not developed the signature crust. The pimientos had great flavor, but were described as stuffed and were served layered (had to send them back because they had no cheese in the first serving). The octopus well was presented, but overcooked. Unfortunately, I compare it to a recent grilled octopus in NYC that simply flaked... It was first Friday at the end of the run, and the owner was very gracious. I'll go back to try again. The menu...

I've lived one half of my life in NY and the other half in Cali! I know authentic Mexican food! I ordered my favorite, Menudo! It's a Mexican soup! It was horrible! I ordered large to begin with, I got a medium container! It didn't come with the usual; cilantro, onions and lime and corn tortillas! It was full of garbanzo beans and very little meat! Very disappointed! It tasted authentic though and the customer service was A1! Won't...