London recently recorded 26°C, surpassing Barcelona’s temperatures and creating ideal conditions for light, shareable Mediterranean dishes. Tapas and petiscos offer the perfect way to graze outdoors during this warm spell.
Premier Small-Plate Experiences
Mater1a in Notting Hill
Chef Victor Garvey presents an intimate 16-seat tasting-menu venue inspired by raw ingredients and Japanese culinary techniques. Guests enter a stylish, DJ-soundtracked space evoking a Tokyo alchemist’s lair. Highlights include revelatory fish bites like scallop creations, prawn dumplings with salmon roe, Joselito ham stew with truffles and croutons, succulent A5 wagyu, and inventive desserts transforming Sicilian winter tomatoes and Japanese strawberries into sorbets, mousses, and jellies. The £175 per person menu delivers exceptional value. 115 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill, W2 4UP.
Le Nusa Indonesian-French Fusion on the Strand
This elegant newcomer transports diners to a serene Javanese oasis amid the Strand’s bustle. The signature Nasi Goreng Le Nusa features smoked Kupang-style beef brisket, fried rice, sambal luat, and prawn crackers, praised for its subtle sweetness and tender beef. Desserts like chewy Dadar Gulung and Biscoff Klepon linger in memory. Starters from £10, mains from £12.50, sides from £4. 227-228 Strand, Temple, WC2R 1BE.
Best Tapas and Petiscos Spots
Lírica at The Cumberland Hotel
Near Marble Arch, Lírica delivers bold Spanish tapas with authentic flair. The standout tortilla strikes a perfect runny-yet-firm balance, while ham and manchego croquetas offer a creative twist on classics. Finish with creamy Basque cheesecake. Atmosphere lacks vibrancy due to minimal light, but flavors excel. Tapas from £6.50, large plates from £14.50. The Cumberland Hotel, Marble Arch.
Bar Douro in London Bridge
Tucked under railway arches in Flat Iron Square, this spot showcases genuine Portuguese petiscos from an open kitchen. Seafood shines with delicate octopus salad and hearty bacalhau à Brás salt cod hash. Pair with Vinho Verde from the extensive wine list. New lunch special: bifana pork sandwich and Super Bock beer for £10, Thursday to Sunday. Petiscos from £5. London Bridge and City locations.
Brindisa Tapas in Battersea
The Battersea terrace maximizes sunshine for buzzing al fresco dining. Classics like croquetas, olives, and seafood impress, but the layered potato tortilla with alioli captivates. Try larger plates such as Pollo Con Hinojo chicken with wild garlic sauce. Save room for chocolate-orange tart or churros. Classics from £8, seasonal from £12.50. Battersea, London Bridge, Soho, and more.
Malaysian Grazing at Med Salleh’s New Kentish Town Outlet
This cozy 30-seater draws from Ipoh and Penang flavors. Exceptional flaky roti canai pairs perfectly with curry, while Ipoh hor fun soup boasts a rich prawn-infused chicken broth—enhance with soy and fresh chili as suggested. Street snacks from £7.90, claypot specials £16.90, rice dishes from £14.90. 320 Kentish Town Road, Kentish Town, NW5 2TH.
Upcoming Food Deals and Pop-Ups
SushiDog opens at Westfield Stratford on April 11, offering free signature items to the first 100 customers, 50% off April 11-12, and a spin-the-wheel for prizes.
Zula Burger launches the Mi Goreng Cheeseburger—noodles, crispy shallots, pickled vegetables, fried egg, and sambal—April 13 to May 11, 20 daily.
Honey & Co. debuts on Great Portland Street with daytime bites, evening Med wine list, and flame-grilled skewers.
Morley’s and Roti King collaborate for a Brixton Village pop-up April 9-12, featuring nasi goreng with fiery wings, sambal, and egg.
PYO in the City emphasizes organic salads like Avo & Chips with herb salsa or Salmon Pintxos with chili-crusted fish, plus breakfast options.
Forest Feast hosts a free Matcha Glazed manicure bar on April 9 with iced matcha, snacks, and DJ, celebrating new Matcha Chocolate Almonds.
