Flex your flamenco. Go big on your small plates. And fill up on paella before sinking that sangria. It’s time to discover the pockets of Spain right here on our doorstep. We all wish we could be holidaying in sunny Spain this year, but if, like us, you can’t get there right now, try these vibrant spots instead!
Looking for the best paella in London? Arros QD in Fitzrovia was born out of head chef Quique Dacosta’s life-long passion for this Valencian institution.
Many people think of paella as a mixed rice dish when in fact the term refers to the pan used to cook that rice. These pans are expertly wielded at Arros QD to create sizzling variations on the theme. If you aren’t in the mood for rice, you can choose from creative dishes like a rack of pork with purple shiso dressing or Yellowfin tuna tartare.
They are also fans of the open kitchen and do their cooking on a huge wood-burning stove (it measures 6 metres!). The wine list is a mix of lesser-known wines from the Mediterranean and bottles from globally renowned producers. Alternatively, you can indulge in one of their Mediterranean-inspired cocktails.
You can find the restaurant at W1W 8NQ. The nearest underground stations are Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road.
If you’re hoping to experience the vibrant Spanish arts scene, you could catch a performance at the Cervantes Theatre in Southwark. This theatre aims to bring the best of Spanish and Latin culture to life for British audiences. They stage plays, including golden age classics and contemporary pieces, in both Spanish and English. There’s also a café bar upstairs where you can grab a drink and perhaps take in one of the smaller events they host from time to time.
The theatre was opened in 2016 by the Spanish Theatre Company, a charity aiming to promote cultural exchange. They also work on educational programs for schools and provide acting lessons.
If you spent lockdown learning Spanish, you could even put your skills to the test by attending one of their Spanish language shows.
You can find the theatre at SE1 0LR. The nearest underground station is Southwark.
If you’re feeling particularly energetic (or hoping to burn off some of that tapas), a taste of flamenco dancing could be just the thing. This passionate dance is quintessentially Spanish and lots of fun. It hales from Andalusia, but has since stamped and flourished its way all over the world.
Flamenco Academy offers Flamenco tuition for beginners. It’s well worth seeing if any of them have a taster session scheduled during your trip or if they can offer an individual session just for you. Go and strut your stuff and then head back to the hotel for a well-earned siesta.
It doesn’t get much more Spanish than Tapas: small, delicious dishes that you can mix and match.
Barrafina is an authentic tapas restaurant with locations in Covent Garden, Soho and King’s Cross. Take a seat on one of their distinctive red leather stools and watch the chefs hard at work in the open kitchen.
The Barrafina’s a la carte menu features dishes drawn from every corner of Spain, complemented by an extensive wine list. Each venue also has a unique and constantly changing board of specials.
Tuck into dishes like octopus and capers, salt cod fritters and classic tortilla that have been prepared right in front of you. Can’t choose? You don’t need to. Have them all.
You’ll find a Barrafina branch on Dean Street (W1D 3LL), Adelaide Street (WC2N 4HZ), Drury Lane (WC2B 5AJ) and Coal Drops Yard (N1C 4AB).
