Spanish tapas, always a good deal! Even if I haven’t planned to visit Rico Libre by the end of 2014. It just happened when I was in the Digbeth – on one of those Sundays afternoon looking for some new street art in the area.
And as it was very cold, the client Spanish food seemed to be a good option for my husband and I. I had not booked a table for that day, but we were so well welcomed at Rico Libre that I really felt like I was invited to someone else’s house for supper.
The idea was to tuck in some tapas of all types and taste. Some seafood, meat and fried ones. We decided to start with the delicious pan of ajo – toasted garlic bread.
As Rico Libre is not currently licensed establishment, it is working as a “bring your own booze” kind of restaurant, and I really missed the chance of having a decent bottle of wine with me to accompany my tapas indulgence. However, some delicious options of juices did the trick, anyway.
While our tapas (from a selection of 3 for £12- not bad!) were being prepared I had a look at the restaurant itself. The décor is very personal, with a bit of music in the air. Don’t forget to have a look at the ceiling – there are posters, posters and more posters
I have to confess that I thought it was a bit unusual. Why Jared Leto, by the way? But I am sure there is a funny explanation behind this …
A very friendly service is provided by the family who run the restaurant. It is proof that Rico, apart being a brand new place in town, is already well-established in the area.
A tip: as Digbeth streets can be a bit tricky sometimes, it worth it having a look at the map before visiting, just in case you are not sure where Rico is located. It’s also a good idea to check its opening time.
Time for some food so. Six Tapas plates delivered! I had some pescado frito (deep fried fish in a light batter), gambas pil pil (king prawns in chilli and garlic oil)-absultely delicious!-and some championes al ajillo ( mushrooms sauteéd in garlic and parsley).
My husband was persuaded (by me, of course) to try the chicken livers with chorizo and red wine because I knew it would be delicious! He also got more mushrooms sauteéd and albondigas Jardinera (Meatballs in a rich tomato sauce).
I really think that £12 for 3 tapas is quite a lot of food for a very good price. You’re definitely very well fed at Rico Libre.
I was temped to try the passion fruit mousse but there was no more room at my tummy. But a (free) espresso ended well my food marathon that day. Siesta, por favor!
Rico Libre is a delicious experience. This is about food made with passion. Spanish passion. Olé!
Published January 13th 2015 here.
