Dining Out: Paloma celebrates Spanish tapas, paella and fresh craft cocktails
From sangria and tapas to lingering over great food and drink with family and friends, there’s so much to love about Spanish-style dining. Located on the first floor of the AC Hotel in downtown Greenville, Paloma is the Spanish-inspired restaurant concept that celebrates these traditions and more with its new spring menu.
Big flavors make a statement in a lineup of tapas and small plates meant for sharing. A few standouts include gambas al ajillo, a classic Spanish dish of sauteed spicy shrimp, and a satisfying small plate of beef and ricotta meatballs in stewed tomatoes. Other options include the pintxos de pollo, tasty grilled chicken skewers paired with smoky chorizo, and the patatas bravas, a shareable app of crispy potatoes drizzled with a spicy tomato sauce.
Charcuterie fans will love Paloma’s version, which features Spanish-cured sausages and meats, such as Jamón Ibérico, a premium ham and Spanish specialty, and assorted aged cheeses, Spanish olives, and buttery Marcona almonds.
While Spanish tapas reigns on the menu, there are also a few entrees, salads, handhelds and sandwiches. Try the Spanish ham sandwich featuring layers of thinly sliced Jamόn Serrano served with Manchego and tomato on a baguette.
Paella, one of Spain’s most iconic dishes, is a must-try. Prepared for two, this rice dish is loaded with fresh seafood, such as shrimp, fish, squid, mussels, clams, and chicken. For the base, Calasparra rice, a premium short grain rice sourced from Spain, is cooked in a saffron broth, rendering its rich flavor, while roasted piquillo peppers provide a hint of smokiness.
Inside, vibrant original artwork created by award-winning local artist Joseph Bradley adds to the refined but casual vibe. On warm-weather days, it’s easy to feel transported when the retractable walls in the bar open to patio seating and views of Main Street. Find a spot to try a signature sangria or one of Master Mixologist Baileigh Wilson’s easy-drinking craft cocktails. The most requested, the Dove (Paloma is Spanish for dove), features a scratch-made mango jalapeno purée with smoked tequila, grapefruit and lime.
Monday through Wednesday, the bar is a popular destination for an after-work social hour, with espresso martini flights featured on Mondays. There is live music most Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Paloma is open daily for lunch and dinner. For more info, visit palomagvl.com.