Ferran Adrià protégé Alex Ureña is finally giving up on the space he’s tried to make work for four years, first as molecular-minded Ureña and more recently as the more classic Pamplona. Gael Greene thought Pamplona’s tapas were “expertly done” and “easy to love,” but the truth is, the restaurant was cursed by an off-the-strip location on E. 28th Street and a dreary, awkward interior. Florence Fabricant reports that today will be its last day.
Update: We’ve just received a press release that explains, “The space located at 27 East 28th Street between Park and Madison, 212-213-2328, will become a lounge (name to be determined) and Alex’s staff will remain. He and Martine will take some much deserved time off to spend with their two beautiful daughters and explore options in New York or possibly outside New York City. Alex and Martine truly appreciate the friends and customers they have made at Pamplona, and extend their gratitude for your business.”
Alex Ureña Closes Pamplona [Diner’s Journal/NYT]
