Carmen Tapas

£10 - £33 / Spanish, European, Vegetarian options

underground : opposite Clapham Common station, 6 Clapham Common South Side, London

Opening hours

12PM-10PM

Sunday 12PM-10PM
Monday 5PM-10:30PM
Tuesday 5PM-10:30PM
Wednesday 5PM-10:30PM
Thursday 5PM-10:30PM
Friday 12PM-11PM
Saturday 12PM-11PM

Authentic Spanish Flavors Impress in Clapham.

Carmen Tapas, nestled in the heart of Clapham, is reminiscent of a treasured Spanish retreat, offering a delightful culinary escape without leaving London. The cozy, warm atmosphere is embodied in both the spirited décor and the upbeat buzz of conversation, where patrons sip velvety Rioja and savor the robust aromas lightly wafting from sizzling platters. My recent visit was punctuated by a spectacular array of traditional tapas—tortilla española, padron peppers perfectly blistered, and gambas al ajillo arriving hot and fragrant—each dish more authentic than the last, evoking the essence of Spain itself.

While the greeting I received set an excellent precedent for attentive service, there was room for slight improvement as the staff could typically be more perceptive towards diners' subsequent needs. Yet this small oversight couldn’t overshadow the zealous embrace of flavors Carmen's kitchen seemed to channel with astonishing ease. House specialties like the beef cheeks in a rich sauce exemplify authentic Spanish craftsmanship, striking a balance between uhntamed zest and the consolation of a home-cooked meal. This vibrant establishment not only captures the culinary splendor of Spanish cuisine but does so at a remarkable price point, promising diners not just a meal, but an evocative memory worth revisiting. — Nigel Gourmet