Luis Santos, the executive chef at Candela Candela, has opened what he’s calling a “bistro Latino” in East Williamsburg. The cuisine is a fusion of Spanish and Latin American, with tapas ingredients coming from Spain and the tamales de maíz being made fresh in-house. We can vouch for the generous portion of Spanish tortilla and the surprisingly fresh pan con boquerones. Santos is also serving daily specials like ropa vieja and piquillos stuffed with sausage and Manchego, as well as brunch dishes (from 11 a.m. till 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays) like a Basque omelette and tamales with huevos rancheros. The tiny spot seats about a dozen at a few tables and a service bar (you’re looking at pretty much the entire room). Disregard talk of a “deep selection of Spanish wines” on the menu, below — while El Matador awaits its liquor license, you can bring beers over from the Mexican market across the street, or just order delivery.
El Matador lunch and dinner menus
El Matador, 795 Grand St., nr. Bushwick Ave., East Williamsburg, Brooklyn; 718-599-2959
