Paella Shack

I love paella, and I can tell they’re trying the best with the limitd resources they have available at Madison Square Eats. But at the end of the day, I was left wanting for something that tasted more like paella. They cook the rice and then just throw the meats on top, which is understandable. They have a lot of options, maybe to a fault. I had the chicken, which was okay, but not great. But the staff is super nice, and it’s one of the best deals at Mad Square Eats. Just don’t expect something like authentic paella.

PROS:
— Barcelona Sangria $ 9 (garnatxa blanca, guava, and thyme) — pretty good. The wine is definitely present in sangria but the guava flavor is very light. Wish they added a little more guava juice. As for the fruit pieces, it wasn’t marinated with the sangria overnight. Looks like they just threw the fruits on top as decorations. (4 STARS)
— Lunch Combo (half paella + salad) = $ 16
— Kale Salad $ 8 — very delicious. Must get. loved the kale, pumpkin cheese, fruit, and some sort of chewy sweet berry. (5 STARS)
— Service was fast.
THE OKAY:
— Shrimp Paella $ 12 — Rice was under cooked! Some of the rice was hard. =(The good thing was they definitely didn’t skimp on the shrimp. Flavor was a little salty. I also liked that they added mushrooms and bell peppers for color. (3 STARS)

After trying 5 different places at Madison Square Eats, this spot earned our incredibly unofficial «Diner’s Choice Award.»
The paella was devoured by the group. In fact, we almost went back for more (except we opted for a wine and cheese night, so don’t hold that against them).
The staff were very friendly and the price ($ 12 for a plate of shrimp paella) was more than fair, especially if you compare it against the amount of food you get for your dollar at other places at MSE (which is typically not very much for too much).
This place is apparently presented by Barraca (which I have never been to) and they have earned a try from me based on this stand.