While we’re firmly in the ‘you eat what your order’ school of thought when it comes to an Indian or a Chinese, we do accept that sharing perfectly portioned tasting plates can really add to the atmosphere when out for a meal among friends. Which is why we’ve always been huge fans of an authentic Spanish tapas. So much so, we made a list of our favourite tapas restaurants in London!
Tapas Brindisa
Location: Borough Market, 18-20 Southwark Street, SE1 1TJ.
Nearest Tube: London Bridge
Probably one of the more famed tapas haunts in London, Brindisa have been gracing the hallowed grounds of Borough Market since the 90s, importing some of the best hams, cheeses and other Spanish delicacies London has to offer. The warehouse then turned into their first tapas bar in 2004 and they’ve never looked back. The food is quite honestly superb, and while it can get a little expensive, the deep green Borough Market surroundings make it well worth the trip.
Orford Saloon Tapas Bar
Location: 32 Orford Road, Walthamstow, E17 9NJ.
Nearest Tube: Walthamstow Central
If you’re looking for a hidden gem, we don’t you’ll find many more suitable than the Orford Saloon. This friendly local tapas bar and deli on Walthamstow Village’s Orford Road opens daily for tapas, wines, sherries and beers, coffees, bocadillos and cakes – alongside a great selection of drinks, charcuterie, chocolates and gifts in the deli. It’s also incredibly good value, and on Mondays and Tuesdays you can head in for two tapas, a basket of bread and a glass of wine or a beer for just £10.95. Bargain.
Navarro’s
Location: 67 Charlotte Street, W1T 4PH.
Nearest Tube: Goodge Street
Located in upmarket Fitzrovia, Navarro’s brand of wholesome and homemade tapas attracts customers from all over the world. The homely atmosphere and tiled walls, as well as its more than reasonable prices given the area, make Navarro’s the perfect place to head for a relaxed meal among friends. There’s plenty of room and given its central location, we’d recommend Navarro’s if you’ve got a large group to cater for.
Dehesa
Location: Kingly Court, 25 Ganton Street, W1F 9BP.
Nearest Tube: Oxford Circus
For something a little alternative and more contemporary, look no further than Salt Yard’s Dehesa. Salt Yard has gained quite the reputation since its inception a decade ago for serving some of the best Spanish and Italian-inspired tapas in the capital. While it may not be the biggest of places, as well as catering well for vegetarians, the wine list at Dehesa is by far the best on our list and is the worth the trip alone.
Camino
Location: 3 Varnishers Yard, The Regent’s Quarter, N1 9FD.
Nearest Tube: King’s Cross St. Pancras
Located a stone’s throw from King’s Cross Station, Camino is as authentically Spanish as tapas gets. If you think that’s a throw away comment, they send their staff to Spain twice a year on reconnaissance trips. While all your tapas staples are here, there’s also some more exotic options on the menu with an emphasis great modern presentation. Ideal for groups, Camino will serve up a whole roasted Segovian style suckling pig if given 48 hours’ notice, which serves up to twelve. We’d recommend booking ahead as its proximity to the station means it can get busy, even on weeknights.
Barrafina
Location: 26-27 Dean Street, W1D 3LL.
Nearest Tube: Tottenham Court Road
One of the more recent tapas bar openings on our list, Barrafina comes with a sterling reputation for excellent service and even better food. There’s no booking here and given its Soho location, you should be prepared for a small wait. But don’t let that put you off. The selection of Mallorcan and Catalan dishes is incredibly impressive and there’s also a daily changing specials menu unique to each of Barrafina’s three restaurants. The wine list is filled with Spanish favourites and the open kitchen only adds to the experience.
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