Places for tapas
If you know your Albóndigas from a plate of gambas then this possibly isn't the guide for you, mainly due to the fact that we don't know either, we just know it's yummy.
Tapas is a social cuisine, great for getting close to the people your eating with (mainly due to the fact that your generally all sharing plates). Across London there are quite a few places where you can indulge in this food sharing frenzy and knock back a few jugs of Sangria to make it just that little bit more friendly.
Barrafina, Soho
Anyone who knows anything about tapas in London will have been to Barrafina in the heart of Soho. This area has so many restaurants that some of the hidden culinary treasures can get swamped and lost. Barrafina can get its customers a little obsessed with Spanish cuisine with its authentic atmosphere and helpful staff. It can get expensive if you start ordering lots and unfortunately you can't book, so you may have to prop up the bar with some sangria while you wait.
Del Parc, Tufnell Park
Ais a word of mouth sensation in North London. It seems that everyone who walks through its doors is greeted by passionate staff that goes that extra mile to serve outstanding Spanish tapas. You can see the skill with which the food is prepare by the single chef in the open kitchen. The fresh produce it is made with is on display so you know that nothing that arrives on your plate has been placed in a microwave or freezer. Such a fantastic place is this little independent restaurant that you'll have to book a good few days in advance to get yourself through the door. Most definitely some tip top tapas.
Moro, Exmouth Market
When eating something that you aren't familiar with it's always a relief when you are recommended something that is guaranteed to be good on the menu. Tapas virgins do not fear, the waiters at Moro near Exmouth Market are experts in recommending off their ever-changing menu, with wine and side dishes to go with them too. This make a refreshing change from the average restaurant when the staff haven't even tasted what you are about to spend your hard earned money on. Moro really does serve fantastic food and it comes highly recommended.
Fino, Fitzrovia
If you're feeling confident with tapas and fancy splashing out on some of the finer dishes, Fino in Soho can impress the palette. It does cost about £50 a head but the restaurant’s tables are always filled - the good food speaks for itself. Unlike other tapas places, there is a lot space a Fino - you aren't sat on top of each other and there is loads of room on the tables to put all your little dishes. It's more of a luxury dining experience and it gets the thumbs up from us.
Galicia, Notting Hill
If you want the more traditional, understated Spanish experience, try Galicia restaurant. This quaint little restaurant can get forgotten in the bustle of Notting Hill but it really shouldn't. The food is perfectly cooked and served promptly to your table. Described as a 'gem in the area' by the locals it isn't a place to be brushed aside. We think that if you fancy Spain in London; this is the place you should be booking your table at.