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LA CONCHA TAVERN
Two tapas bars became our go-to places Despite the stools, we were back to quaff
on La Latina’s tapa mecca, Calle Cava Baja. La Concha’s famed vermouth drink, called
The first one we found, the modest Taberna the Manuela. The bar owner named this
La Concha, stood out near the end of the tasty apéritif after his daughter Manuela
street with its turquoise-painted facade. and they mix it using their house vermouth
The basic interior offers small turquoise ta- right in front of you with impressive show-
bles and square-topped wooden stools. manship. First, the friendly bartender
Hard, uncomfortable seating seems to be spritzes a large chilled martini glass with
tapas bar staples, designed to keep cus- three sprays of gin from an aerosol bottle.
tomers from lingering too long. But enjoy- Next is a hearty pour of the house ver-
ing a lively scene, creative dishes and good mouth, a dash of Campari’s bitters, and
cheap wine is worth a little pain. Right? green olive and orange peel garnish. Salud!
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