Upon my travels in my neighborhood, I happened to happen upon a little restaurant called “Aza Wine & Tapas.” Either I’m hallucinating or just a couple of weeks ago this was a little dive/whole in the wall known as “Tequila Jacks.” Now, I realize that New York is a fast-pace city where it is virtually impossible to keep up with the latest “hot” or “not” of the moment, but it seemed this place turned over faster than a subway door closing on your face.
Hoping that I’m not experiencing the early signs of sheer lunacy, I go in and check it out. I notice a vast difference from before. No more crowds of people, creepy bazaar regulars or drunken college types. Although still dark, much of the dinginess has been replaced by plush red cushiony chairs and candlelit tables. And music that would’ve formerly made your ears bleed has been defeated by some unique, soothing French, jazz-like influence type of music, calming like the sounds of the ocean. Oh—and I almost forgot one of the most disconcerting things of all… a child. Yes folks, this is now a child friendly environment!After realizing I had followed the yellow brick road into uncharted territory—ending up in a place somewhat reminiscent of the Village—I decided it was my patriotic duty as your newest local connection to all things Upper East Side to introduce Aza to readers. The owner, Don, was nice enough to allow me to monopolize a small portion of his time to engage in a short discussion.
Don Detelj opened his doors approximately 8 weeks ago to Upper East Side residents and tourists alike. He was a former investor in the old establishment and thought the business could use a “new perspective.” He is pleased to engulf himself in the social environment that coincides with owning a restaurant, and receive customer appreciation and satisfaction; as well as provide a heightened edge and classiness that the restaurant presents to the neighborhood. He admits that opening a restaurant is a laborious profession, dominating majority of his days and nights (up to 18 hours or more even per week), but he works to continuously brainstorm new ideas to evolve his business and introduce new events to patrons. An avid cook himself, he also enjoys all types of exotic cooking (preferably Italian food).
Don leverages his staff to their full extent and supports their efforts. For example, a recent event was held on Sunday February 27th featuring a member of his bartending staff who goes by the name “Keyke” performing original music. He also utilizes the cultural background of staff members from Spain to ascertain new and interesting menu ideas. Two new beverages recently introduced to the brunch menu include “Calimocho Madrillo,” which consists of red wine, dash of grenadine, and a slice of lemon; another is “Tinto De Verano,” which is red wine, sprite, sweet vermouth, and lemon.
During my visit to the Spanish tapas and wine bar my friend and I ordered the restaurant specialties, “Churrasquito” (flame broiled mini skirt steak), “Camarones Diablo” (shrimp cooked in spicy sauce), “Paella Valenciana” (saffron rice cooked with fresh seafood, chicken and Spanish sausage). We also indulged in sweat potato fries and “Mini Hamburguesa Aza” (Black Angus burger, bibb lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles). My personal favorite was the “Churrasquito” because the meat was tender, flavorful and the cream, paprika sauce was heavenly (spicy but not too 
hot). My friend favored the “Camarones Diablo;” although it was delicious it had a more buttery flavor than a spicy one as it stated from the menu. There are a few non Spanish plates on the menu as well like chicken skewers with peanut sauce too, mac and cheese, spring rolls, hummus, etc. to appeal to the masses. The wine selection for the wine bar is slightly limited; however, it is expanding and the owner maintains “quality over quantity.” Prices for tapas menu range from $4.45 to $12. There are also a few entrees ranging from $14.95 to $17.95; dinner for two with cocktails expects to pay upwards of $80.00, comfortably.
Aza appears a great place to bring that special someone, set up to create a sensuous and sexy experience. From the deep dim lighting to the luxurious backroom seating, it is sure to give you all the privacy you can desire. I have visited Aza now twice and each time dined on a diverse selection of various foods with healthy portions that won’t leave your tummy aching from the stroll back to your Manhattan walk-up. This restaurant is brand new and still evolving. It leaves me hungry to return and visit the new developments that are underway such as a “Wine Tasting Wednesday” and “Late Night Happy Hour.” For more information please visit the website or on Facebook at http://www.azanyc.com/, and as always go to http://www.uppereast.com/ to stay abreast to the newest events and business on the UES.Aza Wine & Tapas
1668 3rd Ave
New York, NY 10128
212-426-1416
212-426-1416
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