Review

With trendy countertop seats circling chefs working over open flames, Fuego is an interactive and theatrical dining experience that sizzles with creativity, drama, and flair. Drawing inspiration from the quality and intricacy of Japanese cuisine intelligently melded with the dynamic and social atmosphere of Spanish tapas, this stylish and daring venue captures the essence of both cultures well. Here is a true culinary adventure, fit for the most discerning of foodies, yet offered in an entirely unpretentious, convivial manner that will delight casual diners. The menu adopts the spirit of Spanish tapas, encouraging diners to order a wide variety of small sharing plates. Highly recommended is the comfortingly rich wagyu truffle bikini, mini grilled sandwiches packed with a classic combination of melt-in-the-mouth Japanese A5 omi wagyu tataki, Spanish Manchego cheese, and luscious black truffle aioli. Or hotate and ikura, a fragrant and umami laden dish of Japanese scallops served in a warm, silky veloute of perfumed sake and miso, salmon rose, and shiokombu. There are also stellar options for larger plates; paella is sensational, particularly a 48-hour marinated duck or the squid ink version, topped with succulent, juicy charcoal grilled prawns. The rice is perfectly executed in all cases, balancing juiciness with bite and char, the sought-after benchmark texture. For dessert, try the signature miso melty Basque cheesecake to end the meal with a magically runny consistency.