I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Peace and Justice Studies, indicating my time in New York City would be wrapping up before I begin summer vacation back in my suburban hometown. To celebrate commencement, my fellow senior friend, Brady, joined me for an evening at a dimly lit, moody restaurant serving Spanish cuisine and providing live music. Tio Pepe, a Manhattan locale just around the corner from New York University, showcases talent on Thursday and Sunday nights for their patrons as they consume European breads, meats, and desserts.
The simple choice for an appetizer were the chips and guacamole, which have an adjustable spice-level suited to the customers’ liking. Brady confided his typical disinterest in avocados and guacamole, though the two of us finished the traditional starter. We sipped on drinks throughout the evening, with Brady enjoying his Sangria and I indulging in various mocktails.
“Chips and guacamole? Super delicious! The chips were perfectly crunchy and salty and the guacamole was a really creamy and smooth consistency, all while still being able to taste all the components,” Brady eagerly began. “My drink was so strong, but had a very nice level of sweetness and was super delicious. For how strong it is, the flavor wasn’t too harsh.”
A ceramic dish of ham croquettes and a charcuterie board followed the primary appetizer, both aesthetically pleasing and undoubtedly scrumptious. The soft, melt-in-your-mouth croquettes were delightful on their own and with the provided creamy dipping sauce. The cheese platter consisted of specialty cut meats and bitter slices of cheese, rather than a smooth or sweet type.
“The jamón croquetas were unreal, like mozzarella sticks on steroids. The aioli sauce is so delicious and pairs with the mashed potato-like yuca flavor of the croquettes. It’s a definite must try!’ Brady raved. “I liked the charcuterie board, especially the delicious Serrano ham. Chorizo has a really nice smoke to it. As someone who doesn’t typically like a harder cheese, the manchego was really nice. It paired with the chorizo and ham, plus the bread was very fresh and had a perfect audible crunch when I bit into it.”
My main course was a large serving of lobster ravioli, plated elegantly amidst a tomato sauce and acted as a sharp contrast to my cherry-topped pina colada. The dimple garnishing of cilantro and parmesan allowed for the dish to speak for itself. I wholeheartedly enjoyed the entree among the sounds of casual conversation and soft laugher emitting from surrounding booths.
“For the lobster ravioli—I am not a tomato fan, yet I still really liked the sauce. Pleasurable consistency of the lobster ravioli. It all blended together really well,” Brady commented. “I believe I got the chicken al ajillo, which reminds me of the taste of chicken off the grill during the summer, but the saltiness of the garlic sauce kept the chicken very juicy. The rice is really nice, too. Very classic Spanish rice and still tasty.”
Tasting the Spanish flavors, suggested by the amiable manager who regularly checked on us throughout the evening, was a pleasant change of scenery and cuisine. I fully intend on returning to have more ham croquettes and drinks on a summer Sunday night. Tio Pepe was a lovely choice located in a familiar area for many students, acting as an excellent date-night spot or a fancier after-class dinner.
“This place has a really amazing aesthetic with a beautiful open front that looks onto the street, with great lighting, music (live or otherwise!), and so many interesting nooks and crannies to be seated at. The food was really delicious with a lot of different comforting flavors, from the guac and the starters to the main dishes. Need to come back to try more!” Brady admitted.
Since our dinner, Brady has returned and plans to perform his original music at their open-mic nights. The Spanish establishment is a brisk walk from the NYU campus, establishing it to be an ideal spot for a group hangout area, whether it be for drinks or a three course meal. Tio Pepe has partnered with the Campus Clipper to offer students a discount when they present our coupon with their valid student ID.
