London’s first chiringuito – that’s an all-day beach bar and restaurant – is opening in Bethnal Green (where there’s no beach but let’s just ignore that bit). Taking over a former public toilet on the edge of Museum Gardens, Chiringuito will have floor-to-ceiling windows, mosaic tiles, a patio and a rooftop terrace, making it a bit easier to pretend you’re in Barcelona and not next to Bethnal Green tube.
The menu, created by head chef Marco Padilla, is mix of Spanish and Latin American dishes, and features tapas plates like padron peppers, manchego with honey and fig, and gambas al ajillo, and larger dishes like seabass ceviche, swordfish tacos and roast pork belly in pisco and beer. Drinks-wise you’ll be able to get Spanish gin & tonics, Latin-inspired cocktails, cavas and Spanish wines, and local craft beers. Not bad for an old lav.
Opnes July 2018
Museum Gardens, Cambridge Heath Road, London, E2 9PA
@chiringuitoldn