Eating Out: Spanish eatery Pinchos still a strong stalwart on the Leederville food scene

It’s hard to believe that there was once a time when we all ordered our own meals and the only way you were sampling someone else’s was to ask nicely or distract them as you pinched a chip from their plate.

Which was all good and well, until you ordered what arrived as the dud meal and your dining companion was served a glossy, generous serving of scrumptious pasta or perfectly charred chicken.

When I think back to one of the first spots where I experienced the concept of shared dishes and the now age-old experience of quizzing the waiter on how many small plates you’d need to fill your party before they’d recommend more than the table could hold — it was at Pinchos in Leederville.

It’s been the Spanish stalwart of Leedy since I can remember, holding strong on its bustling corner as many of its neighbours came and went.

For the most part, it’s easy to see why. We’re enthusiastically greeted and taken to a table, then asked about five more times if we’ve been there before and if we’re ready to order.

You mark on the menu what tapas you’d like: there are small bits and bite sized pieces, salads, cured meats and cheeses, open sandwiches and different sized plates, before a waiter whisks it away and your food arrives quickly.

I’ve found myself here a few times this year for a quick bite before a movie at Luna, the albondigas (organic beef meatballs in a rich tomato sauce with goats cheese) and chocos (grilled calamari with chorizo) are something I’ve come to I look forward to each time.

Wanting to try something different, also joined by a friend who is vegan, we branched away from my favourites and into unknown territory.

An unexpected highlight was the pintxo salmorejo: an andalucian chilled tomato soup with an olive. At just $2 (served in a shot glass) it was a taste sensation, I’d devour huge bowls of it in winter.