Tapas, small plates, and Spanish flavours in Soho
Soho is one of the easiest places in London to follow your appetite, and this guide brings together some of the best restaurants in Soho for Spanish food. From counters on Dean Street to relaxed spots near Carnaby, you’ll find tapas, croquetas, charcuterie, and well-chosen wine lists within a short walk of one another. It’s a useful way to compare styles, from lively open-kitchen dining to smaller places that work well for a quieter meal. If you’re planning an evening out or building a list of things to do in Soho London, these Spanish kitchens give you a clear place to start, with each one offering something distinct without straying far from the heart of the neighbourhood.
Bar Kroketa Beak Street
Image / bar kroketa
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What to expect
A tight, lively interior with bar seating and a few small tables. Expect croquetas and other shareable plates plus a concise selection of beers, wines and cocktails. Noise levels rise in the evening, staff move at pace and the vibe leans social rather than quiet dining.
Plan your visit
If you want a simple, food-first night out, order several small plates to share and pair them with a short list of cocktails or a carafe of wine. Travelling solo, take a seat at the bar to chat with staff and watch the kitchen. For groups, aim to arrive together so you can share dishes easily. The menu is straightforward, so mention any allergies when you order.
Barrafina Dean Street
Image / Barrafina
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What to expect
Expect an energetic, intimate dining experience, centred on an open kitchen and counter seating where chefs prepare dishes in full view. The room is compact and convivial, so seating can feel close and the buzz is part of the charm. Staff are attentive and helpful, ready with recommendations. Bring a light bag if possible, and be prepared for a lively soundtrack of conversation and clinking glasses.
Plan your visit
Combine a visit with an evening out in Soho, enjoy a pre-theatre stroll or an after-dinner wander through lively streets. Travel light, as seating is compact and coat or bag storage is limited. Advance booking via the venue’s site is recommended for peak nights, and arrive with an appetite for social dining.
Copita
Image / Copita — venue website
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What to expect
Expect small to medium plates meant for sharing, with clear flavours and well-chosen ingredients. Vegetarian options are strong and spoken about by many diners. The pace is unhurried, service is helpful, and the setting suits couples, small groups and solo diners looking for a casual meal or a pre-theatre stop.
Plan your visit
Book ahead if you have a group or want a specific time. Share several dishes rather than ordering one main each. Ask the team for wine suggestions to match the food. If you want a quieter table, mention that when you reserve. For a shorter visit, choose two to three plates and one dessert.
Dehesa
Image / Dehesa
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What to expect
Expect a compact menu of tapas and cured meats, plus a few larger plates such as grilled skewers and fish cheeks. The room is sociable and moderately lively, suited to couples, small groups and informal business meet-ups. Staff often suggest dishes and drink pairings, which helps if you want to try a variety of plates.
Plan your visit
Book a table for evenings at weekends if you want to avoid waiting. If you prefer to sample a few dishes, order several small plates to share rather than a single main. Tell the team about any dietary needs and ask for pairing suggestions when you order. Walk-ins can work on quieter weekdays, but a reservation is safer for peak times.