The MAD Experience
With the opening of MAD this Summer, the River Oaks District welcomed the latest addition to the expanding Houston gastronomy scene. This Spanish themed restaurant boasts an eclectic and bold upscale theme, with eye-catching murals and a dazzling 6,000 square foot interior space that seats just over 150 people. From top to bottom, this place is made to be seen. Even a visit to the restrooms is a sight to behold with a trippy series of mirrors in the hallway that reflect infinitely.
Partners Ignacio Torras and Chef Luis Roger are no strangers to the Houston food scene, having successfully run BCN Taste & Tradition, a Barcelona-inspired restaurant in Montrose which offers a more traditional style of Spanish cuisine. With MAD, they have channeled the vibrant and stylish Madrid culture, evidenced by both the amazing decor and the array of offerings on the menu, as well as a very thoughtful series of cocktails and drinks.
“Luis and I have always aimed at sharing the love of Spanish cuisine and culture with Houstonians, showcasing a culinary experience that is part exceptional interior design and innovative cuisine,” said Ignacio Torras, owner. “With MAD, we hope to continue highlighting the evolution of Spanish culinary experience and spotlight the traditional tapas and paellas which strongly label Spanish cuisine around the world.”
LCA had the privilege of sampling many of MAD’s specialities including some with very unique and interesting twists. One of our absolute favorites was the Olivas Líquidas, or liquid olives, something we have never seen the likes of. Consisting of olive juice encased in a shell of cocoa and served on an “olive branch”, these delicate morsels pop in your mouth with a surprisingly vibrant effect. The MAD Tomato is another must have. This very colorful dish is made of pesto and Parmesan mousse in the shape of a tomato, served over a pile of “soil” which is actually crumbles of toasted pumpernickel bread. Visually appealing and even more tasty, the crunchy pumpernickel acts as a perfect textural element to contrast the soft mousse.
The house speciality is the Wood-Roasted Rice or paella. No Spanish menu would be complete without it and MAD did not disappoint. A beautiful yellow saffron colored bed of rice topped with small lobster tails, bits of scallop, and peas, this is a definite must try. It comes in a variety of optional toppings, but we chose the traditional seafood route. The presentation was in a classic cast iron dish which crisped the bottom of the rice adding texture and tremendous flavor.
MAD’s bar scene takes center stage and specializes in a curated selection of Gin and Tonics that appeal to a wide variety of tastes. Also available are seasonal cocktails including a refreshing Sandia watermelon signature drink, and the masculine Clavo, take on the traditional Old Fashioned mule with a piece of honeycomb. A special bar menu offers bites for the late night crowd.
We know LCA readers will be excited about this new gem in the already exquisite River Oaks District.
Photos and input by Sandeep Khandelwal.
