By Hamy Nguyễn

Comfort foods are different for everyone, but there is one thing that they have in common, they always bring back memories of the good times.

When it comes to sharing a bottle (or two) of wine with close friends, Pincho is first on my list. This preference is increased, particularly on brisk winter days when the balcony calls. The meat plate, expertly presented at the table and garnished with stunning raclette cheese, is a must-order.

Pincho is Hà Nội's first tapas restaurant. VNS Photo Hamy Nguyễn

Pincho is housed in a villa on Cao Bá Quát Street. A little Hà Nội-style alleyway serves as the entry, and it is decorated with several pictures, thought-provoking phrases, and a sizable board with information on the restaurant. Pincho is Hà Nội's first tapas restaurant.

Tapas is served in the Spanish style, although Pincho is not a truly authentic Spanish restaurant. Apart from over 20 varieties of tapas, the Pincho menu is a blend of worldly cuisine with the concept of Spanish tapas at its core. It emphasises coming together and sharing.

My meals at Pincho always take in two restaurant specialities: some tapas, followed by a signature meat plate with melted cheese.

I can usually eat two to three pieces of grilled mushroom and truffle oil tapas (VNĐ70,000 for two pieces). Although the mushroom topping is thickly chopped, we can still feel the mushroom's luscious and chewy texture. Combine with aioli sauce for a rich, creamy, and garlicky combination. Perilla adds a hint of Vietnamese taste and aids in the dish's fusion qualities.

Truffle oil tapas. VNS Photo Hamy Nguyễn

Another dish, I always have when I visit Pincho is Vietnamese bánh đa which comes with smoked salmon, spicy crab and avocado (VNĐ90,000/ 2 pieces). I eat bánh đa, a classic rice and sesame cracker, a lot as a Vietnamese. But I had no idea that it could taste so good when paired with high-quality delicacies like crab meat and salmon. It was easy to consume this kind of tapas, which highlighted the delicate texture of all the ingredients.

Vietnamese 'bánh đa' with smoked salmon, spicy crab and avocado. VNS Photo Hamy Nguyễn

Scallop with wasabi mousse (VNĐ120,000/ 2pcs) is a delicious and delicate dish that is worth trying. The scallops are perfectly seared; their insides are soft, gradually turning pink, while their exteriors are caramelised and browned. The mildly sour sauce counterbalances the sweet softness, which is enhanced by the creamy wasabi mousse. The amount of mousse on the scallops is a touch excessive, the one thing about the meal that bothers me.

A special meat plate with raclette (VNĐ1,320,000) is the highlight of each supper. Two varieties of quality meat will be included in each: Wagyu flank MBS 7/8 and Iberico pluma, along with 3-fire fries, pepper sauce, and aioli sauce. The medium rare option is always mouth-wateringly tender. The molten raclette, with its nutty aroma, creates a luscious base.

As each diner selects their preferred combination of meats and accoutrements, here you can engage in a delightfully communal and convivial dining experience, creating a memorable meal filled with warmth.

Meat plate with melted raclette cheese. VNS Photo Hamy Nguyễn

I usually get a bottle of Syrah wine to pair with the raclette. Typically full-bodied, this kind of wine is excellent for winter consumption. Moreover, the faintly peppery aroma of the wine complements the smokey flavour of the raclette.

Comfort food is about more than just a dish – it's an experience. I have been thinking about my favourite Pincho meal for the past five years, and I feel it would be selfish to keep it to myself.

The staff are also pleasant and knowledgeable, so don't be afraid to ask for recommendations. Asking how many pieces are in each portion when sharing is a smart idea at this superb little restaurant. VNS

Pincho – Tapas Kitchen & Drinks

Address: 34C Cao Bá Quát St, Ba Đình Dist, Hà Nội

Tel: 0949 022 882

Price: from VNĐ70,000-1,320,000

Comment: Vibrant, vintage, sociable, exquisite, and flavourful fusion.