My Review

10 out of 10 stars
El Pirata of Mayfair is a top-tier London restaurant for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Spanish tapas.

On our recent December visit, we find the place packed full & abuzz with conversation & excitement. El Pirata has two tapas tasting menus for those unacquainted with tapas. Those who know their tapas can craft their own special tapas menu along with a bottle of wine.

We especially reccomend the pimientos de padron ( green peppers lightly pan fried in butter/garlic ) and the almejas ( muscles cooked in a delicious garlic sauce ). Best to go with the plain bread for dipping in the various sauces as your tapas flow to the table. Mix & match various hot/cold, seafood/meat/veggie tapas to create your own dining journey. Consider the jamon iberico negra ( at £17 it's pricy, but worth it if you crave the best cured ham Spain has to offer ). Basically, just come to Pirata with an appetite & play with the menu on each visit.

Service is prompt, friendly, & always attentive. Upon learning that our desired wine is not in stock, our capable server suggests a bottle of Val Tosca - a perfect choice. Be sure to leave room for dessert & some espresso to wind down after a perfect dining experience.

One can also sit at the rustic bar enjoying a Tio Pepe or glass of wine along with a few tapas snippets before heading off shopping or to the theater. It's a real people place where you become part of the action while the food and drink flows about you.

We can't say enough about the food and the atmosphere at El Pirata on Down Street. It's too bad that we live in the States as we're be regulars at El Pirata.

Barry