Abanico in Chelmsford

I really wanted this tapas bar to be good. But what a let down in many ways. First the quality was poor . We chose something of the daily board . Wild mushroom croquettes which came up just warm and if was blended any more it would be soup. It was awful. White bait ok but for the price very small like all their dishes. I know you will say tapas are small dises . I agree 100% but people need value. No walking away feeling ripped off. The prawns in garlic looked like they were boiled swimming in garlic. Which again would be fine. But give some bread so we can mop up the cold sauce. And garnish or should I say lack of it !! Wild boar cheeks was small but came up cold !!! Maybe the micro wave had a problem. The young girls just had no clue how to serve customers. My second beer was given to my wife who was drinking wine . Not even talking to us on placing the beer down. Looking at the website pictures are a joke making the food coming up on terracotta dishes which holds more heat. It's a joke.we had only one dish that was presented this way the rest came up on cold plates. Please remember all tables are small and crammed in . Don't let pictures confuse you!! . Overall this place is not value for your money. The quality is poor. Advice please give quality food that is hot . Better presentation. People want to support local businesses. But will not come back if they feel they have been ripped off. .. and who need jelly beans with their bill . It's better to put some nice bread on the side of the prawns to mop up the cold garlic butter.

We visited here with friends, and having previously had great experience and food (albeit a number of years ago), it was rather a disappointing visit. Despite having a table booked, and the restaurant not being overly busy, the service was slow (30mins to get our drinks order taken), we had to keep chasing for our orders. The food quality was average unfortunately and everything seemed to be bulked out with potato. This may have been our choices, but maybe this should have been pointed out at the time of ordering? The portions were small for the price. £14 for the potato platter was a little steep when you considered the small portions it was the equally of a portion of chips - so a little expensive for a cheap product. The sauces were nice though! The restaurant seems to have comprised the quality and quantity to maximise profits. Which is unfortunate as the place is very welcoming and has a great atmosphere.