With the tagline “top-notch Spanish fare—without the pretense,” Tinto on Wall St. in Norwalk is the more casual reincarnation of Meigas, which for many years was rated by Zagat as one of the best places to eat in Fairfield County. So why change? Owner Carlos Hernandez wanted to serve smaller portions at a lower price point, and revamp the look of the restaurant. After an extensive renovation, he unveiled Tinto, which features a new 35-seat bar that is perfect for drinks and tapas with friends, and a more open dining room in case you’re tempted to have a sit-down dinner afterward.
While Meigas served a handful of appetizers and many entrées, Tinto is for tapas. Hernandez has a simple formula for his new place: great ingredients that go into delicious Spanish fare, from fresh-made Sangrias to paella to charcuterie. Even the bread is chewy and delicious. Make sure to try the fresh and light grilled shrimp and avocado tapas, as well as the melt-in-your-mouth vegetarian spinach ravioli. Hernandez recommends the pork belly, chickpea and spinach tapas. “They have a lot to say,” he says. The baby rack of lamb with berries and port reduction falls off the bone. And don’t miss the popular jalapeno martini, which is surprisingly refreshing. For dessert, traditional favorites like the tres leche cake and the caramel flan are both smooth and delicious, without being oversweet.
Tinto, 10 Wall St., Norwalk, tintobartapas.com