Hidden behind an unassuming white door on Calle Cuevillas in Miramar, Bar La Unidad has been a secret sanctuary for those in the know for the past seven years. The only clue to its existence is a discreet red light at the entrance, beckoning curious patrons into a bygone era. Stepping through that door is like stepping back in time to the roaring 20s and the days of prohibition.
The intimate space of La Unidad exudes an irresistible speakeasy vibe. It boasts a beautifully crafted dark wood bar and plush seating for about ten small tables, creating an atmosphere of exclusivity and charm.
One of the first things that struck us was the ambiance. Soft background music allowed for easy conversation, creating an ideal setting for a memorable evening. But it wasn’t just the setting that impressed us; it was the attentive and knowledgeable wait staff who truly elevated our experience. They offered impeccable food and drink recommendations, and were quick to accommodate our requests, making us feel like valued guests.
Of course, a visit to La Unidad wouldn’t be complete without indulging in their impressive cocktail menu. We explored both classic and creative concoctions. Classics like the Gin and Tonic and Margarita were impeccably crafted, but it was the innovative options that truly stood out. The “Smoky But Berry Fresh,” a Mezcal-based libation, arrived in a beautiful lantern, a testament to the attention to creativity in presentation. Its unique blend of Mezcal, fresh herbs liqueur, lemon juice, pink grapefruit juice, passion fruit juice, and muddled black & blueberries topped with Cava was an explosion of flavors. Equally intriguing was the “Tropic Thunder,” a blend of white rum, spiced rum, passion fruit, vanilla tincture, lime, simple syrup, and beer, delivering a delightful interplay of flavors with passion fruit taking center stage.
When it came to the culinary offerings, La Unidad offers a limited but creative bar menu that didn’t disappoint. Their menu featured a diverse selection of small plates, including hot, cold, and raw bar options. From the hot bar, the “Foie Gras Jibaro” left us awestruck. The foie gras was perched atop a generous brioche toasted bun and crowned with Queso Del Pais crumbles and a papaya compote was a symphony of flavors. My only complaint is that the ratio of bread to foie should have been better balanced. The brioche was very large and the foie was very small which left us with a lot of bread that had no topping. But honestly, the bun was delicious even on its own.
Our venture into the raw bar led us to the “Hamachi Tartare,” an absolute standout. The harmonious blend of fresh Hamachi, jalapeños, salmon roe, avocado, and the garlic ginger soy ponzu sauce was nothing short of perfection. Accompanied by taro crisps, it was a dish that left an indelible mark on our palates and left us wanting more.
Our final plate, from the cold bar, featured the “Spanish Octopus Salad.” While the octopus itself was very tender and flavorful, we found the seasoning a tad too salty for our taste, a minor hiccup in an otherwise exceptional meal.
In conclusion, La Unidad impressed us with its speakeasy charm, outstanding cocktails, and a culinary journey that had its highs and a few minor lows. Overall, we’d rate our experience a solid 4 out of 5 crowns. The allure of this hidden gem is undeniable, and we’re already looking forward to our next visit. La Unidad has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of the prohibition era in the heart of Miramar.
The Queen's Critique 