Before Christmas, my partner and I hosted our office Christmas lunch at Barrafina Borough Yards in London SE1. It was an intimate affair, just the two of us enjoying delicious tapas, accompanied by our Jack Tzu dog. Although Spanish cuisine isn’t that great for vegetarians, we discovered enough to keep us happy. Situated in the atmospheric Borough Yards, a stunning development of Victorian railway arches near Borough Market, Barrafina merges historic charm with contemporary style. If you’re looking for the best spots to enjoy tapas near London Bridge or Spanish restaurants close to Borough Market, you’ll undoubtedly appreciate Barrafina.
“Although Spanish cuisine isn’t known for its vegetarian options, we found enough plates of delicious tapas to satisfy our hunger, and there’s always churros!” Homegirl London.
Barrafina Tapas Menu
The menu is a testament to the art of Spanish tapas, blending traditional and innovative dishes. We started with a few selections from the para picar section, a Spanish phrase meaning snacks or light bites.
The Pan con Tomate, a simple yet delicious dish of fresh, juicy tomatoes spread over crispbread, evokes memories of my first trip to Barcelona in my early twenties. I enjoyed it for the first time there. I loved it then, and I still love it now.
We also enjoyed Pimientos de Padrón, a smoky green pepper seasoned with just enough salt to enhance its flavour. Other snacks include Ham Croquetas and Marcona Almonds, prices range from £5 to £22.
For heartier options, the Classic Tortilla stood out. Cooked well done, as requested (we’re not fans of runny eggs), it arrived perfectly firm yet fluffy, offering a comforting and satisfying dish. Other Tortilla choices included the Txistorra (spicy pork sausage from the Basque Country) or Squid Ink; prices ranged from £13.50 to £14.50.
Similarly, the Patatas Bravas did not disappoint. Crisp golden potatoes were served with a spicy brava sauce and a refreshing aioli dollop. However, the red brava sauce was not vegetarian, so I refrained from dipping into it.
We tried the Baby Gem Salad for a lighter option, usually served with anchovies and pancetta; it was adapted to fit our dietary preferences. Even without the toppings, the dish overflowed with flavour due to its bold, tangy dressing.
Another favourite was the Wild Mushrooms with a Fried Egg, customised to a well-done specification. The earthy mushrooms elevate this dish to a highlight of the meal—items from the vegetable section cost between £10 and £18.
We indulged in a modest cheese board featuring Manchego, rustic bread, toasted hazelnuts and quince, priced at £6.50 and £16.
Despite being nearly full, we made room for dessert, which was worth it. The Churros con Chocolate was golden and crispy, with a sumptuous chocolate dipping sauce. Meanwhile, the Basque Cheesecake (my favourite) was a creamy, indulgent delight that perfectly rounded off the meal. Desserts at Barrafina are priced between £7 and £10.
I’ll give the non-vegan and vegetarian options a shout-out – seafood enthusiasts can delight in Grilled Squid in Ink Sauce and Tuna Tartare, priced between £24.50 and £28.50. Meat lovers will enjoy Torreznos (crispy fried pork belly strips), Lamb Pintxo Moruno (spiced lamb skewers), Chicken Thighs with Romesco, Lagarto Ibérico (pork from acorn-fed Ibérico pigs), and Arròs Brut (a traditional Mallorcan dish consisting of a soupy blend of rice, meats, and warming spices). Prices vary from £10 to £29.
Helpful Information About Barrafina Borough Yards
To find out more, visit the Barrafina website. The Borough Yards branch is located at 2 Dirty Lane, London, SE1 9PA, and is open from Monday to Saturday, 12 pm to 10.30 pm, and on Sunday from 12 pm to 9 pm. The restaurant is part of a renowned group, which includes other locations in Dean Street, Drury Lane, and Coal Drops Yard, each offering a distinct atmosphere.
The Borough Yards restaurant boasts industrial-inspired interiors featuring exposed brickwork, contemporary lighting, and an open kitchen. These features add vibrancy to the dining experience. The ambience feels cosy and lively, making it ideal for a memorable occasion.
If you want to explore the area, you may find this article of interest:
Ten Reasons To Visit Borough Yards
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. I only write about eateries where I have had a good experience. I recommend doing further research, as standards and opinions can fluctuate. Please check if the establishment is still open and note the opening times before you go. If you find that this restaurant has closed, please get in touch with me to have it removed from my blog.
