The latest indication of Leith Walk’s quickening transformation into a pan-continental food lover’s thoroughfare, Serrano Manchego is a bright and airy corner tapas bar which has made a healthy impression upon locals in the time it’s been open. It just looks so inviting, with a sleek, contemporary feel to the subtle black and white frontage and the many metal chairs arranged under the awnings during the day, and a warm, subdued glow emanating from the high windows in the evening.
Open from morning until night, it does a good job of being all things to all people. Despite the fashionably stripped-back brick interior, it doesn’t feel stuffy or formal – instead, the feel of an authentic after-work Spanish wine bar come café is approximated, with a great range of drinks focused on Spanish sherries, wines (particularly reds) and beers. A list of gin and tonic combinations and mean coffees also populate the impressive refreshments menu.
The tapas are prepared behind the bar and on display at the counter, including classic Spanish flavours like manchego cheese, serrano ham, prawns cooked in paprika and chorizo in red wine, with less familiar octopus salad or anchovies in olive oil and garlic. You may well want to take a group of friends to sample a few of the relatively pricey items without breaking the bank and to enjoy a drink together, but bocata sandwiches and an all-day Spanish breakfast help with a more café-like atmosphere during the day.