We had a delightful alfresco lunch at Bravas Tapas in St Katharine Docks, East Smithfield, London E1. Having dined there a few years ago, we eagerly anticipated sharing a selection of dishes. With the sun casting its glow and our table overlooking St Katharine’s Marina, it transported us to a Spanish holiday vibe. Bravas Tapas, an independent restaurant, serves contemporary Basque small plates complemented by a fine array of Spanish Wines and Cocktails. Whether searching for Tapas in St Katharine Docks, places for lunch in East Smithfield, or an evening meal in E1, Bravas Tapas is a must-visit.
“With stunning views of St Kats Marina, top-notch Basque Tapas and a glass of Sangria, you’ll be transported to Spain for a couple of hours,” Homegirl London.
Bravas Tapas Menu
For starters, we opted for three premium Cheeses served alongside Quince Paste and a couple of toasted Bread slices. They were presented on a rustic wooden board from the Artisanal Snacks selection. Other enticing options comprised Traditional Spanish Pickles, Marinated Cantabrian White Anchovies, Iberico Ham and Roasted Marcona Almonds. These Artisanal Snacks ranged in price from £4 to £24.
I was pleased to discover several vegetarian options on the menu, priced at £5-£6, including Pan Con Tomate and Blistered Padron Peppers. My first choice was the Spinach Croquetas filled with creamy Spinach with a satisfying crunch. The plate held three Croquetas, and I happily ate them all!
Another standout dish was the visually appealing Malaguena Salad. It featured Pineapple and Fennel adorned with delicate Radish slivers and Microgreens, all dressed with a Sherry Vinaigrette.
The Bravas Potatoes were a hit, perfectly cooked and seasoned. I appreciated that the Salsa Brava and Aioli were served on the side, allowing me to enjoy the Potatoes without the Aioli, which I’m not particularly fond of.
For those with a penchant for Seafood, the menu offers enticing options such as Fresh Salmon ‘Rulada’ with Shoestring Sweet Potato and a Spicy Citrus Dressing, which impressed my partner. Alternatively, you can explore Crispy Piquillo Wrapped Prawns, Seared Mediterranean Seabass Fillet, Grilled Octopus, or Oysters on the Half Shell, with prices ranging from £8 to £15.
Although we didn’t sample Meat or Poultry Tapas, the menu boasts an impressive selection. Choices include Foie Gras, Morcillas de Burgos Sliders, Roasted Iberian Pork Belly, Galician Beef Short Rib and Moorish Spiced Lamb Chops. Prices are £9-16.
From a choice of three Desserts, we opted for the Torta de Santiago with Morello Cherries and Torrija, a Caramelised Brioche Pudding with Passion Fruit Sorbet, both delicious. The Fresh Macerated Strawberries with White Chocolate and Cava also sounded tempting. Desserts cost £6-8.
Bravas offers an extensive drinks selection to accompany your meal, featuring Wine, Cava, Beer, Cocktails, Sangria, Spanish Digestives, After-Dinner Sherries, and Spanish Brandies.
Watch My Bravas Tapas Video
Helpful Information About Bravas Tapas St Katharine Docks
For further information, please visit the Bravas Tapas website. You can find them at St Katharine Docks, East Smithfield, London E1W 1AT, just a ten-minute stroll from Tower Hill Station. Their current operating hours are from 12 noon until 10 pm every day, except on Sundays when they close at 9 pm. The interior exudes charm and cosiness, adorned with natural brick walls and wooden beams. A bonus is their outdoor seating area, which provides a scenic view of the tranquil, car-free marina. This restaurant is ideal for a romantic evening, a business luncheon, or a place to unwind and savour the summer vibes.
If you want to explore the area, you may find these articles of interest:
St Katharine Docks Waterside Dining London E1
Ten Things To Do In St Katharines And Wapping
St Katharine Docks To Canary Wharf Walk
London Bridge To Tower Bridge London Loop Walk
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. I only write about eateries where I had a good experience. I recommend you do further research as standards fluctuate, as do opinions. Please check if the establishment is still in business and the opening times before you go. If you discover this restaurant has closed, contact me to remove it from my blog.
