The Spanish do many things that deserve admiration in 2026. Besides standing up to Trump there’s their supremacy in football (standing up to another dwindling world power with questionable scruples, this time in blue and white stripes) to lift the FIFA World Cup. And of course there’s the achievement of finally officially completing Barcelona’s iconic Sagrada Familia Basilica after 144 years.
But for me it’s the Spanish cuisine that has long been world-conquering. Paella is my favourite dish and I think sharing tapas is the perfect, hospitable way to spend a lunch. Especially on a sunny day, sitting on a buzzing terrace, surrounded by palms, whilst people-watching riverside with Mrs. P. If it’s not the Guadalquivir or Ebro, then Old Father Thames will definitely do. Add in an iconic London backdrop and you’ve got a recipe for a memorable meal.
So it is with the Brindisa Tapas restaurant at Battersea Power Station. The roots of this group of traditional eateries started four decades ago in Catalonia and this is one of six now in the capital. Their à la carte menu offers a broad selection of Spanish tapas and regional specialities, ranging from classic dishes such as tortilla española, pollo con hinojo and jamón Ibérico de Bellota to more substantial options including Galician octopus, black squid ink rice and grilled steaks. Seasonal dishes add variety with options such as chargrilled cauliflower, Iberian pork cheeks and Cornish hake, while vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices are well represented throughout the menu.
Paella at The Power Station weekends
Personally I need very little excuse to spend a pleasant few hours eating well and watching the world go by in such surroundings, but the opportunity to sample the opening Saturday of Brindisa Tapas’ Paella at The Power Station weekends provided even more incentive. Served on the terrace looking out over the river, the rotating weekend menu (which runs until 27th September) switches between the traditional Paella Valenciana with chicken and rabbit, and the creamy, risotto-like Arroz Meloso with prawns. They are also available to take away if you prefer using them as part of your picnic, perhaps in Battersea Park.
I enjoyed the on-the-bone meatiness of the former, but added my own touch of seafood by ordering a dish of spicy Gambas al ajillo to accompany. Also the salted cod flakes in the Empedrat dish (along with heritage beans, peppers and Fino balsamic dressing) provided an additional subtle seafood accompaniment. Add in some Patatas bravas and a traditional Spanish potato & onion omelette with alioli (also one of my favourites) and our appetites were satiated.
Well almost. Until we spotted La Maritxu Basque cheesecake with a lemon & lime zest on the dessert menu. Loosen the belt, got to find room for a dessert that hails from the Basque Country. And i’m glad we did. It was both subtle in its citrus yet not too sweet. A nice way to end.
Not that I was in a hurry to leave. Riverboats came and went and the good people of Nine Elms plus assorted tourists of all shapes, colours and sizes (with the occasional dog) provided the constant flow of cheerful urban life in front of us. The atmosphere was thoroughly pleasant, our journey here had been painless and the staff were friendly.
At Brindisa Tapas not only had Mrs. P and myself discovered a perfect spot in which to enjoy our favourite past time – people-watching, but with great food to accompany.
What a good idea; putting Traditional Spanish cuisine next to an iconic London landmark. Got to admire the Spanish.
For more details visit the Brindisa Tapas website
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