Restaurants

Properly laid tables and a clean, refined design incorporating whites and woods lend Cigala a sophistication that is lacking in an average neighbourhood Spanish bar. Thats not to say classic Hispanic comfort food is absent from the menu; the list of tapas offers plenty of homely sharing food. This was the route we chose on our latest visit. Diligently prepared dishes included gambas al ajillo: three giant, fleshy prawns in a piquant sauce ideal for subsequent bread-dunking. Chicken livers had been seared for just one merciful moment leaving them deliciously creamy, to be served with a sticky-sweet jus. A separate menu of starters and main courses caters for diners wanting a little more formality, with dishes such as fillet of sea bream or slow-roasted pork belly, accompanied by simple vegetables. A very grown-up, all-Spanish wine list is also pitched at the more formal diner, yet includes something to please most budgets; excellent sherries and brandies add to the range.Babies and children welcome: high chairs. Bar available for hire. Booking advisable. Tables outdoors (11, pavement).Map 4 M4.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2008