Bar Kroketa

Celebrating Spanish bar culture in Soho, Bar Kroketa's speciality is, of course, croquetas. Chalked onto the blackboards throughout this snug-sized establishment, its frequently changing menu consists of 'Kounter, Kroketas and Kitchen' serving bar snacks and small dishes alongside the crispy pockets of goodness from which its name is derived.

The atmosphere is informal and cosy, with friendly staff at the ready and lively Spanish tunes thrumming through the air—a relaxing backdrop for the superb selection of Spanish wines and tapas.

Enhanced by a mini knife and fork, the juxtaposition of creamy insides and a crispy outer layer make for a tasty plate of croquetas. The first taste is a melt-in-the-mouth vegan moment of shallot and deliciously sweet pumpkin. The smoothest of king prawn fillings peaks out from the next plate, and 'Jamon, lardo and migas' croquetas stand out in smoky ham and cheese glory.

A glass of red Tomatierre in hand, this medium-bodied cabernet franc with hints of spicy, fruity notes makes for easy drinking, ideal for sipping alongside the dishes that follow.

Familiar with Guinness chorizo popcorn? You'll wish you were snacking on a bowl of these bad boys during your next movie marathon. Crispy tempura outside; rich, crunchy chorizo inside, these bite-sized treats mimic the texture of popcorn while being dressed to the nines with flavour. Rivalling these, a plate of tender asparagus and goat's curd topped with a zingy hazelnut garnish fosters a delicate balance of flavours.

Unexpectedly transporting you back to schooldays outside the tuckshop, their Crab toastie with house pickles is a pleasant surprise. Though absent from the first bite, as you eat more, the crab comes into its own, with rich bechamel and a hint of charred crust making for a next-level toastie. Tying this selection together, with a kick of paprika-infused tomato sauce and potato skins on the cusp of crispiness, the patatas bravas are simply delicious.

Winding down the evening, a generous glass of Moscatel Dorado, sweet with a hint of acidity and consistency like liquid honey, is the perfect complement for dessert. Stuffed with oozing chocolate and drenched in heavenly caramel, this to-die-for croqueta is a delightful end to the night.

From the team behind Spanish restaurant group Tapas Brindisa comes Bar Kroketa, a laid-back joint aiming to bring Spanish bar culture and Basque cooking to Beak Street in Carnaby. Occupying a small but buzzy space just off Kingly Court, diners can pop in to try one of its ever-changing signature dishes off the blackboard menu, along with a glass of sherry or one of its wow-factor wines. The idea is to represent the vibrant bars which line the streets of Spain’s towns and cities. As such, Bar Kroketa is an informal affair: lean at a barrel or perch at the counter with a cold beer, vermút or cocktail, or find a cosy corner for a more leisurely lunch or dinner. 

Its signature dish is, of course, kroketas. Look out for the likes of piquillo pepper with Manchego, king prawn with prawn head aioli, and jamon with lardo and migas. Elsewhere, a selection of small plates from the kitchen includes tortilla of the day, anchovy gilda, crab toastie with cider-pickled cucumber, whipped salt cod with black olives, and tempura cod with whitebait and guindilla. The team aims to champion offcuts and offal when it comes to meat, while seasonality lies at the heart of the menu. For those who simply fancy a drink and a nibble, a range of countertop snacks include crisps and encurtidos, tomato pickle tartar and cheese taquitos with chestnut honey and coffee.  

Meanwhile, the extensive drinks program includes a host of affordable Spanish wines alongside sherry, vermút and sidra (done the Basque way) for the perfect aperitivo to accompany some bar snacks. While expertly mixed cocktails include the Kalimotxo Sour - a playful, modern take on an old school Basque tipple of red wine and coke – and the Krok Spritz made with fino sherry, fig liqueur and cava.