The Best Restaurant in South of the Thames, London

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First mentioned in 1276 and believed to have existed in Roman times, Borough Market in Southwark on the South Bank is a firm favorite with tourists, chefs, and foodies alike. Open Wednesday and Thursday 10–5, Friday 10–6, and Saturday 8–5, this Dickensian location under moody Victorian wrought-iron railway arches at London Bridge is packed with food lovers eager to pick up the finest and freshest fruit, vegetables, cheese, and grub in town. There are more than 120 stalls, plus a bunch of nearby pubs, bars, restaurants, and specialty shops. Ever more groovy new eateries are springing up in nearby Bermondsey Street, just south of the Shard.

José Tapas Bar

$$ | Southwark

Renowned chef José Pizarro has managed to re-create an authentic, slightly rustic Spanish tapas-and-sherry bar. With just 30 seats and no reservations, it's always packed after 6 pm, but it's worth the wait for remarkably fresh, perfectly prepared, classic tapas plates like patatas bravas, croquetas, skewered prawns with lemon and garlic, and clams with fino sherry. Everything's impeccably sourced, from the peppery Marqués de Valdueza olive oil to the top-flight acorn-fed Ibérico ham; you'll also find more than 50 Spanish wines and sherries.

104 Bermondsey St., London, SE1 3UB, England
020-7403–4902
Known For
  • Notoriously long waits and large crowds
  • Daily changing menu of authentic tapas
  • Unique sherry menu
Restaurant Details
Reservations not accepted

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