El Pote Espanol

How many restaurants in NYC last 3... 5 ... 10 ... 15 years? This has been my local neighborhood restaurant for 30 years and counting. El Pote has never let me down and has treated me as part of the family since day one. I fully recommend you visit "my place" whenever you find yourself in the neighborhood. 0)

I have been going to El Pote for at least 20 years now. My parents introduced it to me back when I was still in high school. The experience is always wonderful. The stuffed mushrooms in garlic sauce are awesome. The pork chops stand out as one of the best in the city. The servers have been there as long as I have been going and know the menu like the back of their hand. The owner always greets you with a warm hello and handshake. The sangria is tops. Highly, highly recommended.

This restaurant has the best quality food/price ratio, as far as spanish cuisine is concerned. Do not expect great presentation, just great food. My favorites: Veal Chops, Veal medallions a la plancha with piquillo peppers, Calamares en su tinta, broiled lobster and, if you are patient enough to order it the right way, (it would take about 1 hour) try the Paella. Very friendly and professional service (most of the waiters have been there for more than 20 years) This is one of the few spanish restaurants serving "calamares en su tinta" squid cooked in its own ink. They prepare this dish as well as the best restaurants in Spain. Don't be afraid of the name, just try it!!!!!

When you walk into El Pote, you feel as though you've uncovered a hidden gem. Though the exterior is very non-descript, the inside is everything you'd expect from a traditional spanish restaurant. The sangria is unbelievable - both red and white - and a very good value at $12.50 for a small pitcher. The paella is big enough to share (though there will be a sharing charge). The food is not spectacular, but the flavors are good and it's certainly different for the Murray Hill area. It's worth a try.

While many people rave about the paella, El Pote's true specialty in my humble opinion are the pork chops. The most tender, succulent chops I've ever eaten, bar none. You can peel the meat off the bone with a spoon. It is that moist and flaky. The arroz con pollo is very filling, if you like a hearty but basic meal. The banana sorbet (served in a frozen banana) is a great way to finish a meal. The seating can be a little tight, and a bit noisy given the small space. But a nice atmosphere.

Great quaint afforable Murray hill gem. After being in here for many years the word is finally getting out. Best paella in all NYC. Friendly waiters complete a perfect dining expierience. Understated in decor over-delivering in taste and affordability

Never had the occasion to eat at El Pote but some neighbours urged us to - excellent! Will go there often - the atmosphere is quaint and rustic - great service!