With a well established location near Old Street that's a couple of years old now, Pinchitotapas decided it was time to take its tasty Spanish menu to the western frontera of Bayley Street.
Good thing too for folks round the Goodge Street/Tottenham Court Road area! On our invited visit to PinchitoTapa's new digs, we noted a steady stream of peeps popping in for lunch. Merely weeks old, many of the diners nevertheless seemed to be regulars. And judging from the dishes we tried (as well as a fun and frisky vibe), we can see why Pinchitotapas's WC1 restaurant is already a local fave.
We savoured every bite of the daily special of caramelized dates with hazelnuts wrapped in streaky bacon with cheese and a peach puree (£5) and didn't mind downing an order of croquetas de cocido Madrileño (mixed meat croquets - £5) served on a bed of salad with honey vinaigrette. What really got our taste buds buzzing was a dish of gulas al ajillo (baby eels with garlic - £6). Yummmmy! Maybe not for the squeamish, for the rest of us it's an especially delectable treat!
As full as we were (three dishes seemed more than plenty for lunch and for many, two tapas should probably be enough to constitute a meal), we couldn't resist the manager's req that we stay awhile to sample the freshly made paella. We're sure glad we did. Among the best we've tried in London, Pinchitotapas takes its paella seriously and even offers paella masterclasses (which we'd be keen to sit in on).
Obviously, tapas are best enjoyed with friends. A tough to decide menu, hefty list of cocktails and wine and an atmosphere that may remind you of that funky joint you happened upon last time you were in Barcelona all leave Londonist thinking that this new Spanish restaurant is a brilliant place for you and your best mates to check out soon.
Pinchitotapas WC1 is located at 11 Bayley Street (WC1B 3HD). Find out more at www.pinchito.co.uk.
