Ita was a small place named for the nickname of the Chef Mariela Fernández’s grandmother. nickname.  The seasonally based menu was a la carte with a couple specials to offer.  Her husband, William ran the front of house and also has sommelier training in addition to a Master’s degree in economics. Mariela previously was a chemical engineer but studied at the Basque Culinary Center, as did William.  This restaurant was their dream since arriving in Madrid in 2014.  The space combined natural stone, copper, painted wood and green terrazzo to make an inviting and cozy atmosphere.  The front room held the counter and its seats and the second room was small tables.  Jazz music was in the background and both hosts spoke good English and were super friendly.  They are the only staff but you never felt unattended.  I wish I had a place like this near my house, I would go all the time.  It’s not fancy food but it was very tasty with nice sized portions and they were happy to serve things one at a time so we could split everything.  It gets a solid thumbs up. Continue reading →