JOIA Restaurant, Bar & Rooftop

Spectacular Views and Unique Iberian Flavors

Nestled high on the 15th floor of the Battersea Power Station hotel, Joia offers a culinary adventure steeped in Iberian flair that dances delightfully across your taste buds. Under the adept guidance of Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa, the menu boasts a thoughtful mescla of Portuguese and Spanish influences, serving a carnival of flavors in each dish. My recent foray into this whimsical world began at the cocktail bar, set against a breathtaking backdrop of London’s skyline, where the mixologists crafted beverages as eye-catching as the views themselves. Although the venue claims to charge primarily for these visually arresting scenes, the food itself strives not to play second fiddle, as displayed through its dazzling lineup of tapas-style creations.

While there, we shelled out for both tantalizingly inventive cocktails and a tasting menu that unfolded like a fiesta of Iberian essence. Dishes such as the perfectly seasoned Padron peppers and crisp croquettes reaffirmed the kitchen's penchant for infusing traditional Iberian ingredients with unexpected modern twists. Standing out amongst these was a luscious Iberico pluma, elegantly plated and executed with finesse, truly echoing the chef’s admirable focus. The team at Joia, highlighted by exemplary service from waitstaff such as Adam and Xavier, punctuated each delectable moment with genuine attentiveness and charm. Despite some diners feeling slightly underserved in terms of portion sizes relative to the premium pricing, the overall experience rings ripe for return visits, particularly if one's sights are set on Joia's signature extravagant desserts or a leisurely afternoon in their unique rooftop setting. — Jasper Griddle