Parrillan - Kings Cross, London

Barrafina requires no introduction. Since the Hart Brothers launched it in the early noughties, it has quickly become London's most sought-after Spanish eatery, specialising in Catalan cuisine and counter dining par excellence. Of all London's no reservations restaurants it is the most successful, with four sites across the City. With Parrillan they've created a separate concept, inspired by head chef Angel Zapata Martin's favourite spot in Ibiza: C'An Pilot. There are two things that promise to make Parrillan a brilliant success. The first is that guests prepare their own food. The second is that they can finally book!

Perched on the viaduct level of Coal Drops Yard, above Casa and Plaza Pastor and next to Barrafina, Parrillan is a broad terrace that will massively come into its own in warm weather. In fact, it's perhaps the closest experience to the Balearics that you can get in London. Guests post up in comfy seating under a slatted wooden pergola-shade, order snacks from the para picar section (and gin & tonics, sherry, beer or wine for those so inclined) and then a selection from the Parrillan section. In the corner staff preside over a volcanic barbecue brimming with white hot charcoal, which is transported to the table within a portable grill or parrillan.

From front to back we were smitten. Manzanilla sherry found able mates in sumptuous anchovies with pickled chilli and banderillas, which are essentially the former skewer pintxo-style with an quail's egg. Pan con tomate remains the best we've had in London, and the Marcona almonds and citrussy olives were similarly excellent. On the parrilla we blistered a selection of veggies including asparagus, calcots, red pepper and sprouting broccoli, as well as beautifully seasoned milk-fed kidneys and 50 day aged steak. We rounded the meal off with a cheesecake drizzled with honeycomb. Equally beautiful.

If you're looking to escape London's grind and experience something ineffably Spanish, Parrillan is a sure bet.

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