Spanish dishes styled for the Chinese palate

[Photo by Ye Jun/chinadaily.com.cn]

The color of the dishes at Niajo is highly appealing — the scarlet of Iberian ham, the white of egg and tuna salad, the brown of freshly baked bread and the gold of codfish croquettes.

The taste of the food does its appearance justice. There does not seem to be much taste difference in the foods for the Chinese palate — everything is quite delicious, and not bland as some Western cuisine can be.

Apparently the chefs here have accustomed themselves to the Chinese palate. Otherwise their seafood paella could not be so delicious. The rice is not hard either, catering to the Chinese habit of eating soft-steamed rice. Rice cooked in pottery bowls with pork chops is also a winner, mixing pork chops and pork belly with the rice to give it a great taste.

The restaurant has been open for five years, which testifies to its popularity with Chinese diners, as many Western eateries close shortly after they open. The prices are a little high, but the quality of the food makes the cost worthwhile.

The seafood paella costs more than 300 yuan ($49), but is enough for three to four people. The decoration is warm and comfortable, suitable for a meeting with your loved ones, or a meal with an intimate friend.

IF YOU GO

Average cost is 300 yuan. C305A, 3/F Nali Patio, 81 Sanlitun Bar Street, Chaoyang district, Beijing.

010-5208-6052.