Mar i Terra serves up a mouthwatering array of authentic tapas delights - there’s no time for a siesta in this Spanish restaurant.

The Venue
Mar i Terra is located in the heart of Piccadilly, yet it’s so tucked away from Piccadilly Circus that you can almost walk past it on first glance. And once you’ve found it, you’re in luck - this place provides a nice alternative to the burger joints and low fare takeaways which surround it. From a decor perspective, there are no ornaments, decorations or Mediterranean influences, and the simple dining tables and chairs only add to the minimal effect of creating space which is highly sought after.

The Atmosphere
Sombre springs to mind here, as even in the afternoon it seems like the evening. Unfortunately, with space at a minimum the ambiance can be hit and miss. The dining experience could be greatly improved if only for a little thought on lighting effects.

The Food
The secret to the dishes comes from the home-grown Spanish chef. Every plate is given a lot of care and meticulous attention to detail, yet still manages to come out of the kitchen at a steady pace. With an extensive menu covering fish, meat and seafood dishes there’s really something for everybody, and there are also a few daily specials to choose from which add to the choice of cuisine on offer.

Tapas plates range from juicy meatballs, sizzling prawns and the traditional Spanish potato omelette to the home-grown charcuterie selection featuring the finest free range Iberian black pigs. The chicken croquettes and the beef braised in red wine are highly recommended as they’re delicately cooked and bursting with flavour. With prices ranging from about £3.00 - £8.00 per dish this will hardly break the bank considering its central location. For dessert, try the classic almond sweetmeat dessert from Alicante or the three varieties of Spanish cheeses which includes a subtle Catalonian goats cheese.

The Drink
What Spanish establishment wouldn’t be without jugs of sangria and bottles of cerveza? There are three traditional beers to choose from at Mar i Terra, with sangria priced at around £15.00 for one and a half litres. There’s also an alternative jug consisting of a refreshing mixture of cava, orange juice and absenta. To round off your meal, try one of the many rich, soft and aromatic Spanish liqueurs and sherries on offer ranging from a Galician Grappa to an anise spirit from the Basque country.

The Last Word
Well executed dishes using fresh top quality ingredients make this venue a hidden gem for anyone seeking out an authentic tapas experience

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