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Phone: 020 7482 5937
Gosh, Bod is ugly: there's that name, an unattractive diminutive of Bodega de Tapas. Then there's the strident exterior, lashed with what looks like graffiti, and the blocky, uncomfortable interior, all sharp corners, raw wood, bare metal and shades of concrete.
Upturned sherry barrels hint at what turns out to be an interesting wine list. But that's its only saving grace.
Our food isn't going to win any beauty contests, either. But if it tastes wonderful, who cares, right? Sadly, it doesn't.
A 'stick' of morcilla (Spanish black pudding) is a badly cooked study in grease; one authentic-tasting sausage is bizarrely interleaved on a skewer with what appears to be a cheap, British variety. Had they run out? Chorizo, too, is poor: pale pink, flaccid and rubbery, it bears a strong resemblance to a Mattessons smoked pork link.
Squid, served with a rather good Bloody Mary jelly, hasn't been properly cleaned. Anodyne patatas bravas carry the tinge of the microwave. Teruel ham is properly hand-cut and served with toasted almonds.
Go for this, some pan con tomate and a chilled glass of something Galician and you could probably blot out surroundings about as pretty as the burned-out Hawley Arms nearby. Actually, make that several glasses.
A meal for two with wine, water and service costs about £55. 30 Hawley Crescent NW1. Tel: 020 7482 5937. www.bodegadetapas.co.uk Tube: Camden Town
Details are correct at the time of publication - please check with venue before booking.
Here's a sample of the latest reviews published.
as the previous reviewers have stated i loved it and find the food to be of the finest quality tapa you would find in london, not the usual 'traditional' rehash micro you find in most. the critics review?????? i think the lack of balance and subsquent reviews including the evening standard restaurant award would suggest a ex girlfriend's revenge!
- Carlos Mesta, highgate
When we went there I was so surprised to find such a great Spanish atmosphere here in London, not only that, the food and wine on offer was superb. Don't know where the critic went, but it was not to this tapas restaurant.
- Lollie, Southwark
I went to bods under mixed feelings having read the reviews and what a shame the bad reviews have to be seen as they place no relevance over the experience we had. The food was fab, service was great considering I speak no Spanish but it all adds to the atmosphere and their English was fine and very friendly and welcoming. I will definitely be going back and would recommend anyone to give it a try and make up there own minds, they will not be disappointed.
- Barry Kennell, london
The menu was original and wonderfully fresh, but the wine list was something a bit special, I have been back 6 times since they opened and is always great.
- Kenny Parker, Hampsted
I am British and went there about a month ago, the food was excellent, the menu lacked the standard Tapas that we're used to over here - but then who needs standard Tapas? This meant that the menu was initially baffling, but everything we ordered was good.
Service was great if slightly nervous our waiter was Columbian and once he'd calmed down was ever so friendly.
Very happy to have such a good restaurant in the vicinity.
Will definitely go again.
- Justine, Kentish Town
Don't go there if you're British. If you are, you wouldn't probably like it anyway. Not enough of old stinky stuff that is called character in this country and everything is clean and shining. I really like to enjoy a Spanish speaking atmosphere there, great drinks and great tapas. Although they might be not the most authentic ones ( such as patas bravas aren't spicy enough as they are in Spain) but everything surely costs nice. Very welcoming staff. All members of staff are very friendly and speak Spanish as a native language which is a definite plus and makes this place feel authentic. The first time we've been to this place a waitress brought us wrong wine which was twice as expensive comparing to the one we ordered and we paid no extra for that. Now this is my local bodega.
- Yevgeniy, London
