Bordering the Atlantic Ocean and France is the Basque Country region of Spain, a hub of culinary excellence and world class dining. As the birthplace of Tapas, these small bites of Spanish cuisine need not be a flight away since 668 the gigshack brings Barcelona to your table this summer.
Chef Andres Gomez of the Basque Country region delights with a diverse and playful menu, importing most ingredients from Spain. The chilled Gazpacho shooter was a refreshing start to a late afternoon meal on these notoriously scorching July days, as was the cool glass of Albarino Spanish wine paired with our meal. A parade of little plates followed; razor thin slices of Serrano Ham, rich Tetilla and Manchego cheeses, and Chistorra, crisp toasts crowned with spicy sausages almost too picturesque to eat.
We continued our journey through the menu, delicately nibbling on the Banderillas, picked peppers, cucumbers, onions and anchovies, dipping the buttery potatoes on the creamy Salsa Brava and marveling over the Tigres, stuffed open faced mussels. To our surprise, these perfect little plates were a culinary tour de force, rich in complexity, bold in flavor, and carefully plated with delight by Chef Andres.
The Paella of Spanish rice and seafood was the centerpiece, golden in color with subtle hints of saffron that drew attention to our table. Our encore of Tortilla Espanol, sautéed potatoes with a layer or sweet piquillo red peppers and sharp cheese, followed by the Boquerones, slender anchovies bathed in olive oil and vinegar. The Gig Shack achieves the sophisticated nature of Tapas in taste, presentation and intent on keeping guests focused on conversation and snacking rather than focusing on one select dish. Ideal for a late afternoon snack, pre-dinner appetizer, late night meal, Tapas in Montauk may have found a second home on this side of the Atlantic.
Tapas is offered at the 668 Gig Shack on Sunday and Tuesday evenings, beginning at 6pm.
668 the gigshack
782 Main St., Montauk • 631.668.2727
