A Taste of Spain in the Heart of Mayfair – El Pirata Delivers Every Time

We visited El Pirata of Mayfair back in September, long before their Christmas menu had been announced, and even then we were completely won over. It really is no wonder we here at Onin.London have visited El Pirata time and time again. Tucked just off Park Lane, this gem feels like stepping out of London and straight into a buzzing Spanish tapas bar which is warm, welcoming and effortlessly charming.

I went with my mum and my newborn twins, and the staff couldn’t have been more accommodating. They made sure we were comfortable from the moment we arrived, creating space for the pram and checking in on us with that signature warmth El Pirata is known for. It made what could have been a stressful outing feel genuinely relaxing.

This was my mum’s first time having a proper Spanish feast so we asked staff to recommend their all-time tapas favourites. They suggested  Padrón peppers, silky jamón, potato bravas, beautifully cooked octopus and more… each dish was full of flavour and that unmistakable authenticity that keeps locals and visitors coming back after 31 years. Staff also made mum some special cocktails by adding vodka to the mocktails. And you can’t go wrong with churros at the end of a meal!

Now, with the festive season here, El Pirata has unveiled a Christmas offering that makes a return visit even more tempting.

This year, El Pirata is celebrating Christmas the Spanish way, with a festive tapas feast curated by Executive Head Chef Chaxi Guinzo. The Christmas Party Menu is everything you’d hope for from a Spanish celebration: rich flavours, seasonal indulgence and dishes designed for sharing.

The menu begins with Jamón Ibérico 100% 5J Bellota, blistered Padrón peppers, Pan con tomate, and crisp ham croquettes. Then come festive centrepieces like fried cod cheeks with lemon alioli, slow-cooked lamb shoulder, roasted cauliflower with romesco, and of course, Patatas bravas. Dessert brings a sweet finish with classic churros and turrones.

Vegetarians are equally well looked after, with highlights such as grilled asparagus with Manchego sauce, roasted sweet potato with goat’s cheese, fried aubergine with honey and Cabrales cheese, and comforting Spinach and Payoyo croquettes.

Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner, a team celebration, or a full festive gathering in their cosy wine cellar (which fits up to 70 guests), El Pirata offers a space full of personality, charm and genuine hospitality – all just a short walk from Green Park.

From our September visit to their new Christmas menu, one thing is clear: El Pirata is all about heartfelt hospitality, honest cooking and that warm, neighbourly spirit that makes you feel at home. And if there’s one time of year when this beloved Mayfair spot feels even more magical, it’s Christmas.

Christmas Party Menu:

£49pp for groups of 6+

Vegetarian Christmas Party Menu: £40pp for groups of 6+

Reservations: www.elpirata.co.uk

Address: 5–6 Down Street, Mayfair, London W1J 7AQ

Opening Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 12pm–10:45pm

@elpiratamayfair