Discovering the Best Spanish Restaurants in London
London has undergone a culinary renaissance in recent years, particularly when it comes to Spanish cuisine. Once upon a time, the city struggled to offer authentic and delightful Spanish dishes, but today, it boasts a vibrant food scene that showcases the rich flavors of the Iberian Peninsula. This transformation is largely due to the influx of talented chefs from Spain, who have brought their culinary expertise and passion for quality ingredients to the capital.
A Melting Pot of Cultures
London is one of the most multicultural cities in the world, and this diversity is beautifully reflected in its food scene. The close ties with Europe have allowed chefs from Spain to set up shop in the city, creating a dynamic Spanish food culture that has captured the hearts and palates of Londoners. The emphasis on provenance and high-quality ingredients has become a hallmark of both British and Spanish cuisine, leading to a culinary landscape that celebrates simplicity and flavor.
Early Trailblazers
Pioneers like Brindisa and Barrafina have played a crucial role in elevating the reputation of Spanish food in London. Their focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods has set the standard for what diners can expect from Spanish cuisine. Classic dishes, while seemingly simple, are elevated through expert preparation and the use of top-notch ingredients. For instance, a scarlet prawn, grilled over salt until it takes on a smoky flavor, exemplifies how quality can transform a dish.
Best Spanish Restaurants in Central London
Central London is a treasure trove of tapas bars and Spanish eateries. Here are some of the best spots to indulge in Spanish cuisine:
Barrafina, Soho and Covent Garden
What: Barrafina is renowned for its legendary tapas, including classic croquetas, garlic prawns, and grilled sardines. The made-to-order tortillas are a must-try, bound with barely set egg yolk.
Where: 26-29 Dean Street, W1D 3LL; 43 Drury Lane, WC2B 5AJ; 10 Adelaide Street, WC2N 4HZ
Book now
ALTA, Soho
What: This multi-story Basque restaurant features an open kitchen and a live fire, crafting innovative dishes like noodle-like tentacles and wobbly burnt cheesecake.
Where: 9 Kingly Court, W1B 5PW
Book now
Aqua Nueva, Oxford Circus
What: A sleek and glamorous venue, Aqua Nueva offers a menu that ranges from traditional tapas to contemporary dishes like roasted hake and charred hummus.
Where: 240 Regent Street, W1B 3BR
Book now
Salt Yard, Fitzrovia
What: Known for its shareable small plates, Salt Yard serves up dishes like grilled octopus with sobrasada aioli and jamon croquetas.
Where: 54 Goodge Street, W1T 4NA
Book now
Maresco, Soho
What: Maresco focuses on uncomplicated Spanish plates using top-quality produce, with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for sharing dishes.
Where: 45 Berwick Street, W1F 8SF
Book now
Bar Kroketa, Soho
What: Specializing in croquetas, Bar Kroketa offers a constantly changing menu of deep-fried snacks alongside rustic small plates.
Where: 21 Beak Street, W1F 9RR
Book now
Ember Yard, Soho
What: This casual spot combines Spanish and Italian flavors, offering a small-plates menu perfect for groups.
Where: 61 Berwick Street, W1F 8SU
Book now
Lurra, Marylebone
What: Known for its Galician steak, Lurra also excels in fish dishes like grilled octopus with piquillo sauce.
Where: 9 Seymour Place, W1H 5BA
Book now
Arros QD, Fitzrovia
What: This paella restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Quique Dacosta uses wood-burning stoves to create exceptional rice dishes.
Where: 64 Eastcastle Street, W1W 8NQ
Book now
Donostia, Marylebone
What: A Basque kitchen serving excellent charcuterie and larger tapas dishes like Ibérico pork shoulder.
Where: 10 Seymour Place, W1H 7ND
Book now
Morito Exmouth Market, Farringdon
What: A stylish spot offering rustic Spanish flavors, including salt cod croquetas and jamón Ibérico.
Where: 32 Exmouth Market, EC1R 4QE
Book now
Copita, Soho
What: A breezy eatery with a daily changing tapas menu, including mushroom croquetas and scallops.
Where: 27 D’Arblay Street, W1F 8EP
Book now
Sabor: El Asador, Mayfair
What: This restaurant focuses on traditional Spanish country cooking, featuring dishes like suckling pig cooked in a wood oven.
Where: 35 Heddon Street, W1B 4BS
Book now
Ibai, Farringdon
What: Specializing in Basque cuisine, Ibai offers some of the best steak in London alongside unique dishes like marmitako fish stew.
Where: 90 Bartholomew Close, EC1 7BN
Book now
Best Spanish Restaurants in South London
South London is home to some culinary gems, especially if you’re a fan of José Pizarro’s restaurants. Here are a few must-visit spots:
Pizarro, Bermondsey
What: The smarter of José Pizarro’s two Bermondsey eateries, this restaurant offers top-quality ingredients and a fantastic wine list.
Where: 194 Bermondsey Street, SE1 3TQ
Book now
Tapas Brindisa, Borough
What: Located near Borough Market, this restaurant features seasonal dishes and classic tapas staples.
Where: 18-20 Southwark Street, SE1 1TJ
Book now
Bravas Tapas, Tower Hill
What: A rustic setting with artisan snacks and unique specialties like foie gras ‘crema catalana’.
Where: St Katharine Docks, E1W 1AT
Book now
José, Bermondsey
What: A standing-room-only tapas bar serving exemplary hams, cheeses, and traditional dishes.
Where: 104 Bermondsey Street, SE1 3UB
Book now
Peckham Cellars, Peckham
What: A trendy wine bar offering a monthly-changing menu inspired by Spanish flavors.
Where: 125 Queens Road, SE15 2ND
Book now
Bar Tozino, Bermondsey
What: A hidden gem focused on jamon and wine, with a fantastic atmosphere on market days.
Where: Lassco Ropewalk, SE1 3PA
Book now
The Little Taperia, Tooting
What: A cozy spot serving classic tapas and inventive dishes like pork cheeks with truffled celeriac puree.
Where: 143 Tooting High Street, SW17 0SY
Book now
Best Spanish Restaurants in West London
West London offers a mix of lively sherry bars and authentic tapas spots. Here are some favorites:
Prince Arthur, Belgravia
What: A British pub serving incredible Basque menus, including wood-fire grilled dishes.
Where: 11 Pimlico Road, SW1W 8NA
Book now
El Pirata, Mayfair
What: A favorite among the Spanish community, offering authentic flavors and speedy service.
Where: 5-6 Down Street, W1J 7AQ
Book now
Capote y Toros, Chelsea
What: A lively dining room featuring a vast selection of sherries and classic tapas dishes.
Where: 157 Old Brompton Road, SW5 0LJ
Book now
Best Spanish Restaurants in East London
If you’re in East London, don’t miss these spots for Spanish-inspired small plates:
Legado, Shoreditch
What: A tribute to regional Spanish delicacies, featuring dishes like arroz campero and skate wing tortilla.
Where: 1C Montacute Yards, 185-186 Shoreditch High Street, E1 6HU
Book now
Morito Hackney, Hackney
What: A casual spot with a vegetarian-leaning menu, offering vibrant small plates with a Cretan twist.
Where: 195 Hackney Road, E2 8JL
Book now
Sagardi, Shoreditch
What: A Basque steakhouse known for its grilled meats and traditional dishes.
Where: 95 Curtain Road, EC2A 3BS
Book now
Best Spanish Restaurants in North London
North London may have fewer options, but it still offers some hidden gems worth exploring:
Llerena, Islington
What: A family-run tapas bar focusing on authentic Spanish flavors and traditional fare.
Where: 167 Upper Street, N1 1US
Book now
Parrillan, King’s Cross
What: A unique dining experience where guests cook their own food on mini grills.
Where: Coal Drops Yard, N1C 4AB
Book now
TOPA, Islington
What: A pintxos and small plates restaurant reflecting the spirit of San Sebastian.
Where: 167 Holloway Road, N7 8LX
Book now
Escocesa, Stoke Newington
What: A top-quality tapas bar focusing on Scottish seafood with a Spanish twist.
Where: 67 Stoke Newington Church Street, N16 0AR
Book now
Many of these restaurants also feature in our list of best tapas restaurants in London. If you’re a fan of small plates, be sure to check it out! Additionally, don’t miss our favorites among Portuguese restaurants in London for more Iberian delights.
