Spanish cooking has been the cuisine du jour for quite a while now, and the country’s many bite-sized tapas dishes are nothing short of irresistible. However, you don’t have to book a ticket to Madrid for an authentic taste.
These top eight London tapas bars offer genuine Iberian atmosphere – not to mention accomplished dishes (like the featured image © José).
Barrafina, Soho
Barrafina is renowned as one of London’s finest traditional tapas bars, and visitors rave about the mouth-watering plates of sardines, Spanish ham and tortillas alike. Be sure to arrive early for a seat – regulars usually pack up the cosy place.
El Rincon Latino, Clapham
El Rincon Latino has been drawing in punters since 1989, well before the current tapas craze really took off across the capital. This family-run gem serves everything from chorizo and whitebait to vegetarian tapas and paella, made from both quality local and imported northern Spanish produce.
Angels and Gypsies, Camberwell
A modern Spanish tapas bar, Angels and Gypsies finds its inspiration from local and seasonal ingredients, putting a subtly British spin on its Spanish fare. In addition to its regular, extensive menu, the restaurant hosts a weekday “streetfood” lunch, which lets area business people sample from its menu of gambas al ajillo, albondigas, patatas pobres, and more.
Boqueria, Brixton
Inspired by Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, Barcelona’s world-renowned food market, Boqueria’s name associates it with a tradition of quality food and wine. This South London outpost makes diners comfortable with its Spanish ambiance, selection of Cava and sherry, and tapas staples ranging from pan con tomate to bacalao fritters.
Brindisa, London Bridge
The crowded, frenetic Borough Market may be difficult to navigate, but Brindisa stands out as an informal, lively venue with delectable cooking. Among the market’s very first vendors, Brindisa’s expertise extends to its selection of imported Spanish ingredients, available in its market shop.
Cambio de Tercio, South Kensington
Creative dishes, quality ingredients and bright, lively décor attract flocks of devoted eaters (including, rumour has it, Rafael Nadal) to Cambio de Tercio. With a number of awards under its belt, the restaurant won’t disappoint, although be prepared to pay slightly more given its South Kensington environs.
José, Bermondsey
Given its no-frills, great-value menu, José Pizarro’s tapas-and-sherry bar is always busy. As one of the most prominent Spanish chefs in Britain, Pizarro’s cooking exudes confidence and perfect simplicity in classic plates like croquetas, patatas bravas and seabream with morcilla sausage and peppers.
Drake’s Tabanco, Fitzrovia
This newly opened tabanco – a breed of tapas and sherry bar originating from Jerez, Andalusia – could very well have been transported straight from Spain. Plates like cured íberico pork tongue and scallop with avocado purée, complimented by sherry served straight from the barrel, make for a great meal.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose London guide cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas
