Restaurants offering popular street food is a trendy approach to new eateries in NJ. For example, the new Mi Espana in Princeton presents patrons with authentic street food from Spain. Here, Chef Jose Diaz uses natural and fresh ingredients to replicate Spanish street food in a food-truck inspired setting. The results are already a big hit with locals.
Mi Espana is the latest venture from Gretalia Hospitality Group, who currently operates 11 restaurants across NJ and NY. (With more on the way.) At first, the idea was to create a grab-and-go, takeout driven restaurant, like a stationary food truck. However, patrons soon made it clear they wanted something more from the 600-square foot space. “It morphed into having seating because people wanted to be there and be served,” says John S. Procaccini; partner of the Gretalia Hospitality Group. In fact, they plan to soon open a second location in Robinsville.
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Authentic Spanish Menu and Decor
Given the demand for seating, Mi Espana is now a sit-down restaurant with space for up to 20 guests. They also happen to be the only Spanish spot in the area, John says. The interior looks like a Spanish bodega, and has a warm vibe featuring Spanish-style yellows and reds. Likewise, the walls are lined with Spanish-themed artwork and décor. In addition, they offer al fresco dining with about 40 seats beneath a canopy.
As for the menu, John says Gretalia likes to be ahead of food trends. “Street food is the next one,” he explans. With this in mind, Mi Espana features the top 10 street foods of Spain. Menu items include something for everyone, such as bocadillos, empanadas, and croquetas, as well as paella. “Kids come in for the empanadas. Adults eat the paella,” John says. “Middle aged guests enjoy soups and bocadillos. It’s nice to see that diversity and not just someone eating rice.”
In particular, John’s favorite dish is the paella, which comes in three varieties; vegetarian, mixta (chorizo, chicken, grouper, shrimp), and espana (chorizo, pork, chicken, portobello). “That’s Chef Jose’s specialty,” John adds. “I have been to Spain and don’t think it tastes any different than what I ate there.”
He also recommends that sopa del mar—fish stock with mussels, clams, shrimp, squid, and grouper.
Visit Mi Espana at 301 N Harrison St, Suite 400, in Princeton. (Click here to see them on Google Maps.) To learn more: Follow them on Facebook | Follow them on Instagram | Click to give them a call.
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Mi Espana FAQs
Yes, they accept reservations.
They can make any menu item gluten-free, yes.
Mi Espana offers vegetarian options, yes.
They offer takeout, yes.
Yes, they offer delivery through DoorDash and their own direct delivery.
No, they are BYOB.
They do not have a kids’ menu, no.
All Photos: © Mi Espana
