In my observation, this Spanish tradition varies from the New York City restaurant experience in several important ways:
Differences between menu del día and New York brunch
1. Spanish restaurants are affordable.
2. Actually, Spanish restaurants are stupid cheap.
3. For example, a glass of wine in a Spanish restaurant costs $1 and comes with free food.
4. 3-course Spanish lunch costs $10-$15.
5. 3-course brunch at Jane NYC costs $100-$1000.
6. Jane has better Eggs Benedict.
7. I do love Eggs Benedict.
8. I would be hungry right now except I had 3-course Saturday lunch. For $13.
I’m not ready to say that menu del día beats the New York brunch scene. For example, I’ve never seen a B-list, pseudo-celebrity while I’m stuffing my face with Spanish tortilla in Madrid Centro. But, both types of meals have a specific and powerful in their cultures. It’s important to appreciate local customs. Also, to appreciate local table wine.
I’m off for siesta. For more of my thoughts on Spanish cooking, click here.