Spice level warning — Paella is not what I expected
I underestimated Paella. The rich with olive oil description didn't prepare me for the reality. saffron brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.
the tapas tradition developed as small accompaniments to drinks. The a Sunday family paella setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. horchata cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.
Paella