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2511
Barrafina
Restaurant
7
Local Gems
CUISINE
TapasHOURS
Mon.-Sat.: 12:00pm-3:00pm, 5:00pm-11:00pm; Sun.: 1:00pm-3:30pm, 5:30pm-10:30pmBEST FOR
Lunch; dinnerRESERVATIONS
Not accepted; expect to waitBAR
NoYEAR OPENED
2007PRICE (SMALL PLATES)
~GBP 5+ per plateNOISE
MediumFAMOUS PLATES
Gambas al ajillo; chorizo; tortilla; daily specialsDRINKS AND WINE
Good Spanish wine selection (most available by the glass)# OF SEATS
23 stoolsOUTDOOR DINING?
NoPRIVATE ROOM AVAILABLE?
NoTUBE
Tottenham Court Road; Leicester Square; Piccadilly Circus
VIBE
This diminutive Soho tapas bar, with ultra fresh fare that is allegedly the most authentic in town, has been a mega-hit from day one. The tiny space holds only a handful of stools, a gleaming stainless steel bar, and an open kitchen; customers brave long lines to perch at the counter and watch their fresh-from-market ingredients be transformed into the signature stellar small plates. The cultured, casual vibe is buzzing, and an egalitarian no-reservations policy means that the nibbles-and-drinks waiting area is always hopping, too.
CROWD
Devoted Soho locals who know it’s worth the wait mix with foodies and hipsters.
WHAT WE WOULD WEAR
It’s polished casual–a chic v-neck, label jeans, and boots would work.
GO HERE WITH
A date; friends
WHY WE LIKE IT
The super tiny space paired with the open kitchen gives a happening yet intimate vibe–very cool. And, the tapas really are taste-like-Spain good. It’s definitely worth the wait. Perfect spot for a relaxed yet sophisticated tête-à-tête with friends or a date.
WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE
Definitely needs more seating!
GOOD TO KNOW
Unsurprisingly, the wait is usually realllly long. You can (try to) avoid it by getting there before 5:30pm…but no promises. A late weekday lunch is your best bet. Also, definitely not a good place to take a large group.
OTHER LOCATIONS
Fino (West End, London); Quo Vadis (Soho, London); Hart’s (Nottingham); Hambleton Hall (Oakam)
CLOSEST COMPS
Tapas Brindisa (London)
Read more about Barrafina in The Diary
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