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Nestled in the heart of London at 43 Drury Lane, Barrafina Drury Lane is a vibrant tapas bar that brings the essence of Spanish cuisine to the bustling streets of the city. Known for its cozy, diner-style atmosphere, this establishment is perfect for those seeking an authentic dining experience featuring a variety of small plates, sherry, and cava. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Barrafina is a must-visit destination for anyone craving delicious Spanish food.

Barrafina Drury Lane specializes in serving a delightful array of tapas, making it an ideal spot for sharing and sampling various dishes. Highlights of the menu include:

Iconic chorizo tortilla, a crowd favorite.

Fresh seafood options, including squid ink rice.

A selection of vegetarian dishes, catering to all diets.

Conveniently located in London's vibrant Covent Garden area, Barrafina Drury Lane is surrounded by a plethora of attractions. Visitors can easily explore:

The iconic Royal Opera House, perfect for a pre-show meal.

The historic Covent Garden Market, ideal for shopping and entertainment.

The bustling Leicester Square, a hub for nightlife and cinemas.

With its prime location and delectable offerings, Barrafina Drury Lane is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary experience that captures the spirit of Spain right in the heart of London.

Cosy, diner-style tapas bar with stools for Spanish small plates, served with sherry, cava and more.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2aS1lU3BRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ05ipQssEdkgRFQa0UBb-vpQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2aS1lU3BRRRAB

We made a reservation for 5:15pm and arrived and were seated by 5:20pm. We ordered five tapas-style dishes to share. The dishes came one at a time rather than all together, and at 6:15pm we were told they needed the table for someone else even though our final dish had not arrived.

On the reservation I had notified the restaurant that it was a birthday dinner. Despite it being a special occasion, which they in no way acknowledged, they asked us to leave before finishing our meal. The restaurant was nearly empty and there was no reason not to bring everything we ordered at the same time, particularly when they knew they wanted to turn the table in under 60 minutes. We were not eating slowly and had to wait between each dish for the next. In summary, terrible service and very unprofessional.

Edit to reply to the response from owner:
You have the date of my booking, the time of my booking, and my first name. Can you not match those to my reservation which includes both my phone number and email address? What further information do you need? This is just another example of Barrafina Drury Lane's complete incompetence. The only further information I can offer is a piece of advice: stop trying to turn tables in 60 minutes if your kitchen and staff can't keep up.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfdmNYWEhBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ05ipQssEdkgRFQa0UBb-vpQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfdmNYWEhBEAE

Everything we ordered was delicious. I wish the seats had a bit more spaces.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzbnNuX0JBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ05ipQssEdkgRFQa0UBb-vpQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzbnNuX0JBEAE

Extremely Disappointing and Rushed Experience

Last night I dined at Barrafina and was thoroughly disappointed by the service, which felt more rushed and inhospitable than anything I've experienced before. The evening started well enough, but things quickly took a turn when, after about 50 minutes, waitress (maybe she was a manager) came up to inform us that we had 25 minutes left to order more food. We politely said we would think about it, but within five minutes, she returned to press us for a decision. When we asked why we were being hurried, she replied that we only had 90 minutes at the table, highlighting that this is mentioned in the email.

We were okay with this at first and even considered ordering dessert. However, another 10 minutes later, she returned yet again, asking if we’d decided on dessert. When we said we would not order dessert, she promptly brought us the bill saying sorry ladies but I have to ask you to pay and leave—even though our time wasn’t up. Our reservation was for 7 p.m., but by the time we left the restaurant it was 8:20 p.m., we hadn’t even been allowed to enjoy the full 90 minutes promised in the booking email.

I expressed my dissatisfaction with the manager when she asked us to pay and leave, but her attitude made it clear she was more interested in watching the clock than ensuring we had a pleasant experience. It’s a shame because the other staff members behind the counter overheard our conversation and were genuinely apologetic.

The whole experience felt unreasonably rushed, especially given that we spent £120 for two people. If I wanted to be hurried out the door, I’d have opted for takeaway from a fast-food place instead least it would have costed me less. To make matters worse, after leaving, we noticed the counters on either side of us were completely empty, which only added to the impression that we were not valued at all. I have dines in many places before with the 90 minutes turnaround time and I have never experiences such a poor and appalling service.

Given our experience, I won't be returning, nor can I recommend it to anyone seeking a hospitable dining atmosphere.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3c3ZfakpBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ05ipQssEdkgRFQa0UBb-vpQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3c3ZfakpBEAE

It’s a good place to eat and have a nice date - price is bit on the high side and I didn’t find the table setting correctly proportionate with the tall chairs so it was uncomfortable (hence the 3 stars on atmosphere)

But the food was good, and the iconic chorizo tortilla was amazing - would get this to go next time if possible

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQxZzVldlpREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ05ipQssEdkgRFQa0UBb-vpQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQxZzVldlpREAE

It was difficult to book and there seemed to be a big queue for the bar seats. They say it’s Spanish cuisine but it is quite different from the authentic Spanish tapas food I had in Spain.

The squid ink rice was so salty that my eyes got swollen the next day. I felt like I was eating salt.

The baby gem salad was pretty average.

The skate wing was very good, so soft and smooth in garlic sauce. They do tapas style so the food portion isn’t very big.

If you are a larger group, you will be seated downstairs at a basement. The basement doesn’t look very atmospheric, the decor isn’t very pretty.

I think this place is overpriced and the food tasted alright. I don’t think I will come back again.

Including service charge, we 3 spent £150 on this meal and I didn’t feel quite full up afterwards.

Barrafina Drury Lane: Top Tapas Restaurant in London

Outdoor Seating

Restroom

Live Music

Allows Dogs

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Good for Children

A culinary treasure trove awaits at Barrafina Drury Lane, a bustling restaurant nestled in one of London’s most vibrant districts. This lively establishment, renowned for its authentic tapas, is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. As you step inside, the warm ambiance envelops you, enticing you to explore the age-old Spanish tradition of sharing plates. The open kitchen tantalizes diners with the tempting sounds and aromas of sizzling prawns and perfectly seared chorizo, reminiscent of a sun-drenched plaza in Spain. Here, the bar is a focal point where skilled chefs craft its signature dishes with passion and flair, right before your eyes. The stylish decor, characterized by rustic wooden countertops and an inviting mosaic-tiled bar, draws on the spirit of Spain while incorporating an unmistakably British charm. Savor every moment as you delight in the fluttering flavors of expertly curated dishes that range from succulent Iberico ham to fresh seafood, all paired effortlessly with a glass of fine Spanish wine. This culinary journey is enhanced by the friendly, knowledgeable staff who share stories of each dish’s origin, enriching your dining experience. Barrafina Drury Lane doesn’t just serve food; it invites you to be part of a vibrant community where food lovers gather, making every meal a memorable occasion. Especially after a night at the nearby renowned theatres of the West End, this restaurant serves as the perfect spot for a late-night bite, brimming with energy and enthusiasm. With its stellar location in London's heart and its inventive approach to traditional tapas, Barrafina is a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals alike.

Barrafina Drury Lane

Parking Options

Payment Options

Serves Coffee

Indulge in authentic Spanish tapas at Barrafina Drury Lane, a vibrant London eatery. Savor exquisite flavors and unwind—book your table now!

Barrafina Drury Lane: Top Tapas Restaurant in London

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