Petit Déjeuner

The disadvantage of being an early riser is that most eateries don't open until almost midday. Incredibly, late night hot spot Bar Raval may close at 2 a.m. but they re-open at 8 a.m. So on Saturday, I headed over to try their menu. Reviews often talk about the unique curves and swoops in the bar. They were right, it was like being inside a "hipster Hobbit" home (in a good way). Even more amazing, except for the oyster bar, everything else on the menu was available as well as breakfast items arrayed on the bar-top.
Though everything now is labeled tapas this or that, Raval is a true Spanish tapas joint. It was also clear how they can open so early. Most dishes use raw or cured ingredients that just need some deft assembly on a plate. Nevertheless, this was high-quality stuff. So my first bite into the Galacia octopus ($8) was heaven: thinly sliced and tender. The sardines floating on top of a creamy base for the Stracciatella and Boquerones ($7) was equally delicious and not too strong in flavour.

Unfortunately, the Jámon croissant ($4) was a disappointment. Whoever they source their croissant from didn't do a great job. This was thick, heavy pastry closer to store-bought than the light, multi-layered, buttery decadence from a quality bakery. The ham was obviously high-end, but too thick and tough. The almond teacake ($4.50) was better: lightly sweet and not too dense. But the poached pear didn't have that usual lovely flavour.
So the take-away for me was stick to the main menu. The early opening hours are a blessing but at $35, Bar Raval is a bit steep to serve as a regular breakfast joint.