Philadelphia Weekly

FOOD > GUIDE

Tinto

Tinto, a colloquial expression used to describe the red wine served in typical pintxos bars throughout Northern Spain, is the ultimate expression of what a Basque wine bar should be. Located in the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood, the cozy restaurant, which draws inspiration from the rich cultural and culinary traditions of Basque country, inspires, tantalizes and satisfies all who enter with extraordinary cuisine created by Chef Jose Garces. It is an intimate restaurant and bar and features a warm atmosphere reminiscent of a rustic wine cellar. Hand crafted wooden grids, housing thousands of wine bottles, completely surround the dining room. A 22-foot bar constructed with reclaimed orange-stained lumber, and black and white Spanish tile, provides seating for up to twelve guests. Like the bars in the Basque region, chefs prepare and serve charcuterie, cheese plates and other small dish specialties at the bar. High-top tables also constructed with reclaimed lumber and black bent wooden chairs offer additional seating. Floor to ceiling bi-fold glass doors open up to the street, where guests can enjoy al fresco dining, weather permitting. Downstairs, Tinto offers a lounge atmosphere, with cozy dark brown and mustard colored vinyl upholstered sofas, and black laminate tables. A tempting selection of pintxos (pronounced: “Peen-choes”), the Basque region’s equivalent of tapas, is offered at the restaurant and there is a wine list showcasing the exceptional varietals and rare yields from premier vineyards in Northern Spain and Southwestern France. The menu also features a varied selection of charcuterie, cheeses, mariscos (shellfish), brochettes and bocadillos (sandwiches).