El Parador

I went to El Parador for a birthday dinner for 12 people. The main reason for choosing it was the universal approval of the reviews below and the fact that it’s close to Koko for some follow-up partying. I’ve had some pretty good tapas in Spain and in London. El Parador is right up there with the best of them, adding a slight French and seasonal twist to you standard gambas and patatas bravas (we didn’t order any of that on the night). The artichoke and pomegranate dish is superb as is the duck and the lamb tapas. The variety is large, but not overwhelming and the house red, surprisingly good. You can also order sufficient amounts to fill you up, without spending the equivalent to a flight to Barcelona.
The service was efficient and friendly. The decor is quite Spartan. If you were to talk past the El Parador there is little chance you would have guessed the quality that lies behind the simple window and white, plain interior.
So this is a definite recommendation for just a simple meal, a romantic evening with your other half or a party of up to 20 people. What I find amazing is that 15 meters up the road is Asakusa, my favourite Japanese. So there you go. Two true hidden gems one next to each other in not the most likely of places. To borrow some guidance form Michelin, they are both worth a detour from your travels and if you’re in London then a dedicated trip won’t let you down.