Tapas destination La Metro puts the rich tradition and culture of Spain on full display
Led by chef and owner Hector Santiago, the Ponce City Market eatery offers an array of tapas, paella, dulces, and much more
Sugar to spice—La Metro has it all. Ponce City Market’s new tapas concept brings heat to Midtown, providing an authentic Spanish experience.
No stranger to the Atlanta area with multiple local eateries to line his resume, including El Super Pan which resides across from La Metro in the main atrium of Ponce City Market, chef proprietor Hector Santiago knew what Atlanta was missing and filled an untapped market. “I really want to stay true to Spanish tapas bars and that kind of communal hanging out,” says Santiago, inspired by his many trips abroad.
Named after a landmark building and community hub in Madrid, the restaurant evokes a similar feeling. “My favorite building, the Metropolis, has a lot of character, strength, and finesse,” says Santiago. “And being in Ponce City Market is like being in the middle of town at the Metropolis.” Although Atlanta is a newer city in comparison, Ponce City Market holds a long history and is a historic preservation success story, as is true of many Spanish buildings.
“It shows Spain—it doesn’t show us,” says Santiago of the interiors. “That’s the goal with everything and how we wanted the place to look.” Colored glass windows and tile transport guests to the vibrant streets of Spain. The bar seating evokes a metropolitan feeling where strangers do not exist and community is found at bustling tapas bars. Nearby gallery walls are composed of dancers, matadors, and the balance of Spanish culture where both softness and strength, something light and something bold coexist.
These opposing forces are evident in the menu where quick counter-service bites shine as bright as the 500-day-aged ham. “I tried to keep it all very authentic,” says Santiago. A Spanish staple, the Shrimp al Ajillo is cooked in olive oil, giving it a sweetness, while chilies add spice. Santiago notes that Puerto Rico has their own version of this dish—shrimp and garlic—which was a favorite of his when growing up there.
Authentic eats continue with an array of tasty tapas including the Patatas Bravas. Fresh from the fryer, crispy potatoes are paired with Spanish hot sauce, and aioli balances the flavors. “It’s delicious and different from every other hot sauce you know with just enough spice to have you craving more,” says Santiago. Despite the speedy service, dishes are never rushed. The aging process for the goat’s milk in the Caña de Cabra is over three months long.
Add a little sweetness with decadent dessert selections. Guests can opt for an authentic offering like the Crema Catalana Espuma, Spanish custard foam with burnt sugar, or stay tried-and-true with the ever-popular churros and chocolate. Just as indulgent, the drink menu is dotted with cava, vermouth, beer, and Spanish wines, as well as creative cocktails—like the Golden Martini with gin and vermouth. “Every time I have it, it tastes like a sunny day in Madrid,” says Santiago. Also on the can’t-miss list, the Adonis cocktail with vermouth, amontillado sherry, and orange bitters is full of flavor.
On the go or dining in, La Metro opens its doors to everyone. “It’s simple,” says Santiago. “Everybody deserves great food.” And La Metro is the place for just that. lametroatl.com
