When it comes to finding authentic Spanish cuisine in London, the options can be overwhelming.
However, few places manage to capture the true essence, warmth, and flavor of Spain quite like Pizarro on Bermondsey Street.
Run by the acclaimed chef José Pizarro, this restaurant brings a beautiful slice of Seville directly to the London food scene.
If you are planning a visit, the menu is filled with incredible dishes that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a sun-drenched terrace in Spain.
Here is a breakdown of what to order, including my personal favorites and some must-try menu highlights.
The Stars of the Show: Octopus, Pork, and Paella
The absolute highlights of my meal were the larger plates, which perfectly showcase the kitchen’s mastery over traditional Spanish ingredients.
- The Octopus (Pulpo): Cooked to absolute perfection, the octopus at Pizarro hits that elusive sweet spot—tender on the inside with just the right amount of smoky char on the outside.
- The Iberico Pork: If you order one thing, make it the pork. Pizarro is famous for its Presa Ibérica—a premium cut of 100% acorn-fed Iberico pork. It is incredibly juicy, richly marbled, and cooked beautifully to showcase its natural flavors. It is an absolute game-changer.
- The Paella: No Spanish feast is complete without a paella or a rich rice dish. Pizarro’s version delivers deeply developed flavors, perfectly cooked rice, and that coveted, delicious caramelized layer (socarrat) at the bottom of the pan.
Essential Starters to Share (Pica Pica)
Before digging into the heavy hitters, you need to kick off your meal with their exceptional selection of pica pica (small tapas plates).
They are perfect for sharing while you sip on a glass of Spanish Cava or sherry.
- Jamón Ibérico (5J Acorn Fed): This is top-tier, melt-in-your-mouth cured ham. It pairs beautifully with their Pan con Tomate—crisp toasted sourdough rubbed with garlic, fresh Catalan tomatoes, and extra virgin olive oil.
- Croquetas de Jamón: Crispy on the outside and wonderfully creamy on the inside, these traditional ham croquettes are bite-sized perfection.
- Padrón Peppers: Simply fried and tossed with sea salt flakes, these are a classic Spanish staple that you can’t miss.
- The Bermondsey Bomba: A playful local favorite, this features a large, crispy potato ball stuffed with spiced minced beef and served with rich sauces.
Seafood and Unique Starters
If you want to add more variety to your table, the mid-sized sharing plates are incredibly rewarding:
- Gambas Rojas (Mediterranean Red Prawns): Prepared beautifully with tomato and spicy oil, these raw blue-belly or red prawns are sweet, fresh, and packed with maritime flavor.
- Mejillones con Mojo Rojo: Fresh mussels bathed in a vibrant, slightly spicy Canary Island-style red sauce and topped with fresh coriander.
Sweeten the Finale
Make sure to save a little room for dessert, as Pizarro’s sweet finishes are legendary.
The absolute standout is their classic Flan, which is elevated by an intense, luxurious syrup made from Pedro Ximénez sherry. It is the perfect smooth, rich, and sophisticated end to an unforgettable meal.
