Best Tapas Restaurants In London

The term tapas may no longer be exclusive to Spanish plates (you'll find everything from Peruvian to Mexican below), but it's still wholly defined by its gorgeous flavours and broad ingredients. For small plate fun in the city? We're bringing you croquetas in Shoreditch, slinky wine-led tapas bars in central London and padron peppers in Brixton. Check out our favourite London restaurants for tapas.

Last edited by Kiera Chapman

Last updated on 12th June 2025




El Pirata

If you're looking for places to eat tapas in London, then El Pirata should be on your radar - having won the SME Award for Best Spanish Tapas in London for 2020-2021. Their focus is on family cooking and traditional Spanish hospitality, having been transporting diners to the streets of Madrid for over 30 years. Serving up all the classics from light bites and seafood plates to grilled dishes and plenty of wine, this is one to book.

El Vino - Various Sites

Soak up Spanish wines and dig into sharing plates from London Bridge to Blackfriars and beyond. Whether you choose to dine alfresco on a sun-soaked terrace or cosy up at a table inside, El Vino won't leave you disappointed.= when it comes to a classic tapas experience.

Escocesa

Escocesa can be found serving the finest tapas from their Stoke Newington Church Street location, promising the very best Scottish seafood and Spanish produce too. The result? Everything from charcoal tenderstem broccoli with crumbed mushrooms to seabass ceviche and slow-cooked Iberian pig cheek with apple chutney on the menu, with owner Stephen's love of sherry shining through on the drinks list. Plus, executive chef Pablo Rodriguez has a wealth of experience at Michelin star restaurant Jean Luc Figueras in Catalunya alongside London's Barrafina and Moro too, so your tastebuds are in great hands.

Waterloo Sky Bar

If you're in search of an elevated tapas experience in London, quite literally, Waterloo Sky Bar offers an intimate and stylish setting for Mediterranean small plates with a view. Located atop the H10 London Waterloo Hotel, this chic rooftop pairs skyline panoramas with delicious dishes like ham croquettes, Manchego cheese, and golden churros.

The tapas menu is accompanied by classic cocktails and a carefully selected wine list, including crisp Cava. Perfect for a relaxed evening of sharing plates and conversation, it's a refined alternative to London's busier tapas haunts.