180 Greenwich High Road,
London,
SE10 8NN
(020) 8269 0003
The ViewLondon Review
Offering authentic Spanish tapas in the heart of maritime Greenwich, Taperia serves good quality food and mixes a mean sangria.
The Venue
Easily accessible by DLR and overground rail, Taperia occupies a central spot in Greenwich. Formerly known as the Organic Tapas Company, it shares its premises with the Greenwich Picturehouse but very much feels like a venue in itself, despite the view into the cinema foyer. A small restaurant, its high ceilings and large, bold, Spanish-inspired art makes it feel far more spacious than it actually is. The space is used very well here, with the optimum number of tables squeezed in without forcing diners to sit elbow to elbow.
The Atmosphere
Service is friendly but sporadic. It may take some time to get noticed for an order but, once word has been sent to the kitchen, the food arrives almost instantly – something of a shame if you were hoping to take your time over dinner. Small and intimate, there’s enough character to create an atmospheric venue for both couples and groups alike.
The Food
Tapas dishes are priced at £4 to £5 and three dishes per person are recommended by the staff. Chorizo marinated in red wine is lovely and rich, the meat good quality and very tender with the sweetness of the wine offsetting its spiciness. The tortilla is light and fluffy, again with plenty of herbs and, being potato based, is very filling. King prawns in tomato sauce are plump, fresh and the serving generous. A set lunch menu is also available seven days a week.
The Drink
Try a well-mixed and deliciously moreish jug of sangria at around £14, complete with chunks of apple lurking at the bottom. A good range of wines, heavily Spanish influenced of course, are available, along with a characteristically dry Cava (around £20). One of the most popular cocktails is the Cuba Libre, which costs about £5.
The Last Word
With more a more leisurely rate of service, Taperia would make a destination for the evening in itself, but it’s a great stop-off before catching a film. With its offering of live music Saturdays and Sundays, the weekend might be the best time to pay a visit.
Taperia has been reviewed by 4 users