Boqueria

“No” means “no”.

That’s Spanish 101.

Spanish 102, on the other hand, requires a deep-seated knowledge and appreciation of authentic, traditional and contemporary Spanish cuisine. Which – we’ve discovered after careful deduction and hands-on research – you can do by eating it. More specifically, eating it at Boqueria: a cozy, Michelin-recommended South London tapas restaurant and bar filled with Spanish art, music, and most importantly, people.

On the menu, which also moonlights as a placemat, you’ll find a selection of traditional sharing plates like anchovies in vinaigrette, paprika-fried octopus, suckling pig with parsnip and sweet potato crisps, and cider baked chorizo. As well as a range of cheeses, cured meats and home-made desserts, Spanish wine and beer, and Boqueria’s speciality menu of sherries and cavas.

Now although there are quite a number of spectacular Spanish restaurants in London, Boqueria stands out for four main reasons:

1) It’s not a restaurant, it’s an institution.

2) It’s a relatively cheap eat. Which is nice.

3) It’s got a covered, heated terrace that has the capacity to host parties of up to 40 people.

4) It’s inspired by Barcelona’s most famous food and wine market, ‘el mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria’…which is Spanish 103.

Congratulations, you’re a natural.

NOTE: Boqueria is open Wednesday – Sunday. Reservations can be made here

Boqueria | 278 Queenstown Rd, Nine Elms, SW8 4LT

Like know about new London openings? Check out our excellent guide to the best new restaurants in London.