Constancia

London’s old leather & tanning district seems tailor-made for a steak restaurant – although Constancia looks across the globe for its beef. Based on a traditional Argentinian parilla (grill), this Bermondsey newcomer is a laid-back joint where the decor may be moody, but the feel is light & friendly. Our parrillada Constancia (a mighty mixed grill) included a hunk of sirloin, two chorizo sausages & a dish of bubbling provolone cheese, but top marks went to a juicy slab of succulent rib-eye pepped up with zingy chimichurri. Sides, including garlic & parsley chips, are worth the extra cost. Portions are huge, so first courses & desserts may be redundant – although we were impressed by crisp beef empanadas to start. A young, all-Argentinian brigade brings further good looks to the place, while a Malbec-heavy wine list provides a solid match to the food. Prices are high, but if you’re prepared to shell out, Constancia is fit for any self-respecting gaucho.