Inside West Town's New Spanish Cafe, Now Open, Along Grand Avenue
The new location opened this morning at 1117 W. Grand Avenue. Neal, who holds a background in marketing and design, helped transform the former Gemma Foods storefront into an inviting spot where customers can relax while sipping espresso. Martin and his crew have brought back the same drink menu (which features Metric Coffee). Highlights include a mini & basil latte and an horchata chai.
While the coffee program didn't receive enough attention in Lincoln Park, where Bocadillo debuted in 2021, it was Martin's food that earned the restaurant accolades, including a spot on Bon Appétit's Best New Restaurants of the Year. The menu celebrates Northern Africa's influence on Spanish cuisine and Martin's background as a D.C. native raised by Southern parents.
James Martin and Jessica Neal
An Horchata latte
Eggplant Melt
Patatas Bravas
Paella is a highlight, and that will return when evening dinner service kicks off in September. Martin has big dinner plans, but he feels his sandwiches deserve a bigger audience. They're filled with imported meats and in between crusty baguettes (barra de pan) imported from Spain. The bread arrives parbaked and frozen; Martin says the bread's texture gives his sandwiches an authentic Spanish edge. The sandwiches are personal for Martin as he wants to keep quality food accessible to working-class customers. He speaks fondly of his father, who was a construction worker. The menu will adjust seasonally, and other items will come and go. For example, the empanadas are currently stuffed with onion, peppers, meat, and tuna.
Walk through the space below. Bocadillo Market is now open.
Bocadillo Market, 1117 W. Grand Avenue, open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday; Dinner service starts in September from Friday through Sunday.
Bocadillo Market also stocks Spanish goods like Vichy Catalan sparkling water.
Don't sleep on the sweets here.
The coffee is by Metric.
Squash Blossom & Sobrasada
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