This place was sooooooo good, and everyone who works here is really nice. I had an expensive bracelet fall off on my way to the restroom and didn't even notice. One of the waiters saw it and brought it back to me at the table. I would never have realized it until we got to our next destination. Ok, back to the food. All of it, terrific. The croquetas, the chorizo, the patatas bravas, all of the classics, well done. A rando standout? Fried chicken. In Bath. In a Spanish restaurant. Some of the best fried chicken I have ever had. Come to this warm and inviting restaurant, so well worth it.
La Perla was a welcome sight for lunch, as we walked down the narrow stairs past the outdoor seating to the dimly lit cave that awaited us. A bit dark for a summer day but romantic. There was a bar at the entrance and then we were led back to tables that were essentially a really lovely basement under the street above.
Tapas menu was perfect because there were many selections to choose from and enjoy with a glass of wine. Hey, when on holiday, day drinking at its finest! We opted for the bread basket with ample types alongside dipping sauces and large, meaty olives. Then came the cured ham, sliced thin with almonds, really flavourful. A small side salad enough for two and cup of gazpacho were next. The gazpacho was cool and fresh but a bit plain for my taste. I thoroughly enjoyed the fried squid which came with dabs of aioli and was of great quality. Last was the spicy chorizo hotdog with cheese. This was a strange menu item, but my dining partner had to have it. I tried a bite, and thought it definitely livened up the traditional hotdog.
The food was delicious but there was just something lacking from the service department. Our waiter was very attentive to but did not smile once. He also had a habit of only looking at my partner when both of us addressed him. Aside from a lively hen's party at the table near us, the place was empty. I think perhaps if they stepped up the service (and marketing?) they could have easily served more people on a weekend. Nevertheless, it was a lovely meal and romantic setting.
The food here is amazing! We got six different things and not a single one was less than great. If you are in bath, you NEED to go here!
We got:
Duck (Pato Confitado)
Fried squid (Puntillitas)
Patatas Bravas
Bread selection
Seafood paella (paella of the day)
Prawns (Gambas Alajillo)
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