I'm pretty much a purist when it comes to Spanish food so I suggest visiting Casa Armas if you're not familiar with the cuisine. This place has been around long before I have and while their original branch in Malate still stands, I prefer their Jupiter branch just because it's closer to home.
Start your meals with a bowl of lentejas or lentil soup--make sure to add some vinegar and olive oil for the perfect balance of flavors. Follow that up with ham and cheese croquetas, which is the only thing I ate as a kid but somehow carried over to my adult days. They're fried potato balls with cheese and ham best with hot sauce, what's not to like about it? And for the main entree, paella. The paella usually takes 20-25 minutes to prepare so it's best to call in ahead so you won't have to wait too long. But while you're waiting, try their Chorizo Frito which is Spanish chorizo fried in olive oil. Feel free to dip some whit bread into it while you're at it.
Back on the paella front, the Paella Valenciana is their best seller because it has pork, chicken, and seafood to satisfy everybody at the table. Another favorite is the Negra which gets its name from the squid ink thats used to cook it. Just make sure to make use of the table napkin they leave at the table.
Casa Armas may seem like a dated idea but it's longevity is proof that sometimes the oldies are still goodies--may even the best. read more