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José Pizarro, often called “The Godfather of Spanish cuisine in the UK”, has helped bring authentic Spanish flavours to British diners. Born in the small village of Talaván in Spain’s Extremadura region, Pizarro started his culinary journey in his home country, working his way up to head chef at the Michelin-starred El Mesón de Doña Filo.
In 1998, he moved to London despite being unable to speak English, eager for a new challenge. He quickly found his place in the city’s food scene, working at top Spanish restaurants like Gaudi and Eyre Brothers in Shoreditch.
As Executive Chef at Brindisa, he built his reputation before opening his own spot, José Tapas Bar, on Bermondsey Street in 2011. Inspired by Barcelona’s lively tapas bars, this small eatery served classic Spanish small plates and sherries and soon became a local favourite.
Now, with multiple restaurants under his name, Chef José Pizarro has brought Spanish cuisine to different corners of the UK, from London’s financial district to a cosy Surrey pub. Each of his restaurants offers something unique while staying true to his love for fresh, bold flavours and high-quality ingredients.
The Swan Inn: A Spanish Twist on the Classic British Pub
In Esher, Surrey, Pizarro has reimagined the British pub with The Swan Inn. This cosy gastropub blends British pub culture with Spanish flavours and even offers boutique rooms for overnight stays.
The Menu: Where Spain Meets the UK
The Swan Inn’s menu mixes Spanish-inspired dishes with classic British pub food. Some highlights:
- Croquetas, Tortillas, and 100% 5J Jamón Ibérico — Spanish staples done right.
- Scotch Egg with Butifarra Negra — A Spanish take on a British favourite.
- Estrella Damm Beer-Battered Fish and Chips — Classic comfort with a Catalan influence.
- Vegetarian Options — Dishes like pan con tomate and grilled aubergine with Monte Enebro cheese.
- Sunday Roasts — Free-range chicken or slow-roasted pork belly with all the trimmings.
Drinks and Atmosphere
The bar serves British real ales, Spanish wines, and a creative gin and tonic menu. There are also cocktails with a Spanish twist.
Inside, the pub has wooden beams and a log fireplace, making it cosy in the winter. Outside, there’s a garden terrace with a fire pit for year-round outdoor dining. It’s also dog-friendly, so even your pup can enjoy the visit.
Staying Over?
The Swan Inn has six boutique rooms in a converted barn next to the pub. Each room has modern amenities like air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can also enjoy a full à la carte breakfast during their stay, making it a great place for a weekend getaway.
At Luxury Wanderings, we loved the friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and delectable breakfast offerings. It’s a notable destination for both locals and visitors who want to enjoy a memorable dining and lodging experience.
Pizarro’s Growing Restaurant Empire
Building on his success, José Pizarro has opened several other spots:
- José Tapas Bar (Bermondsey Street): This intimate, Barcelona-style tapas bar was Pizarro’s first solo venture, offering small plates and sherries in a relaxed setting.
- Pizarro Restaurant (Bermondsey Street): Just down the street from José Tapas Bar, this more formal restaurant serves hearty, seasonal Spanish dishes with a carefully curated wine list.
- José Pizarro at the Royal Academy: Located within the Royal Academy of Arts, this restaurant merges Pizarro’s love of food and art, offering a menu inspired by his Spanish roots.
- Poster Bar at RA by José: Also within the Royal Academy, this vibrant bar offers lighter bites and drinks in a relaxed, artistic setting.
- José by Pizarro (Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers): His first international restaurant, bringing Spanish flavours to the UAE with a menu that blends tradition with a modern touch.
- José Pizarro Broadgate: Once situated in London’s financial district, this lively eatery brought authentic Spanish tapas to the heart of the city, which made it a go-to spot for business lunches and casual dining alike.
More Than a Chef: A Champion of Spanish Food
Pizarro’s love for fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple cooking has made Spanish food more popular in the UK. Beyond his restaurants, he has written several cookbooks, including Seasonal Spanish Food, Jose Pizarro’s Spanish Flavours, and The Spanish Home Kitchen, all showcasing Spain’s rich food culture.
He’s also a familiar face on TV, appearing on Saturday Kitchen (BBC One), This Morning (ITV), and Sunday Brunch (Channel 4). In 2024, he was awarded The Royal Order of Isabel la Católica for his work promoting Spanish food abroad.
Through his restaurants, books, and media presence, José Pizarro continues to share his passion for Spanish food, making it a staple in the UK food scene.
