Tía Pol

"Tia Pol is a little tapas bar in Chelsea that’s perfect for early-in-the-game dates. Sit at the bar and share a few small plates like ham and chorizo or octopus salad with romesco. (Nothing on the menu is more than $16.) Come during Happy Hour if you want discounted glasses of wine." - team infatuation

"Tia Pol is an ultimate Infatuation First/Early In The Game Date spot. Take the edge off, have a couple of glasses of wine, maybe some sangria while you’re at it too, and conversation will be flowing freely by the time you’ll be sharing quality small plates. Just beware, there’s pretty much a standard thirty minute wait at Tia Pol. I suppose that might come in handy, should you need some time to realize that the person you brought is a snooze, and you need to bail after one drink. Alternatively, come here with a large group and share everything on the menu. Just don’t attempt coming in with a group larger than three without a reservation. Food Rundown Patatas Bravas Rough cut potatoes doused in an awesome smoky, spicy aioli. This is a must order. Jamon Serrano, Artichoke, Manchego An artichoke and manchego puree wrapped up inside a blanket of Serrano ham. The crispiness of the bacon goes perfectly with the smooth, creaminess of the artichoke. We definitely recommend. Tortilla Espanol Eh. Pretty standard. We’ve had better. Croquetas de Jamón These ham croquettes are a Tia Pol Infatuation go-to. Also, if they have the cod croquetas as a special, those are even better. Lamb Skewers Three tender pieces of lamb come steaming out of the kitchen all kinds of hot and juicy. A nice lemony flavor makes this a good option, but not a must order. Squid Served in its ink, with rice. Although it was cooked well, consensus was that this squid was a little too fishy and a little too salty. Chorizo con Chocolate Three thin slices of chorizo served over a crostini, spread with gooey, melted chocolate goodness and sprinkled with coarse salt." - Andrew Steinthal

"There used to be a lot of tapas places in Chelsea, but Tia Pol is one of the few good options remaining. This place is long, dark, and casual, and it's perfect for a date night when you want to pick at some fried chickpeas and gambas al ajillo while you attempt to make small talk. On weekdays from 3-6pm, there's a Happy Hour with discounted wine, cocktails, and snacks." - bryan kim, neha talreja, hannah albertine, sonal shah

"Once you walk the length of the High Line and stare into the windows of some multi-million-dollar apartments, exit the park at 23rd Street and take a breather at this tapas spot. Tia Pol is about the size of a single subway car, with brick walls and a chalkboard full of specials, and it's a nice place to hang out with glass of wine, especially if you're on a date. To accompany your wine, order some creamy croquetas, gambas al ajillo, and little triangles of jamón stuffed with manchego." - bryan kim, carina finn koeppicus

"Tia Pol is yet another tapas option in Chelsea, and it’s a nice, straightforward place where you can sit at a bar and eat excellent croquettes. While there isn’t quite enough room for groups in the long, narrow space, it’s a great spot to bring one other person. We suggest a date - or maybe a friend who’s had a long day and wants to eat ham and tell you about it." - hannah albertine, bryan kim, matt tervooren