Delaterra

If you ever find yourself strolling down Essex Road in London, make sure to slow down when you reach 131-because that’s where Delaterra lives. This place doesn’t scream for attention with flashy signs or over-the-top décor. Instead, it pulls you in with a kind of quiet confidence-like it knows exactly what it’s doing. And trust me, it does.

From the moment you step in, Delaterra hits you with a vibe that’s both earthy and elegant. The atmosphere is warm without trying too hard-think rustic wooden tables, shelves of wine that beg to be opened, and plates that arrive looking like edible art. It’s the kind of restaurant where a cappuccino isn’t just coffee-it’s a ritual. Where brunch stretches effortlessly into lunch, and lunch somehow melts into early dinner before you even realize the time.

Let’s talk about the food-because wow. Delaterra isn’t trying to be trendy or avant-garde. Instead, it’s deeply rooted in bold Mediterranean flavors with a creative, modern twist. Take their Ham Croquettes-crispy on the outside, perfectly creamy inside, they melt like butter with every bite. Or the Gambas Al Ajillo, swimming in sizzling olive oil and garlic, reminding you why tapas were invented in the first place.

For something heartier, the Lamb Stew is an absolute standout. It’s comforting but not heavy, aromatic but not overwhelming. It feels like something your Spanish grandmother would have made, if you were lucky enough to have one. If you're craving something lighter, the Salmon Avocado Toast (yes, they have one-but elevated) is bright, creamy, and comes with the perfect balance of acidity and richness. Add a touch of dill scrambled eggs on the side, and you’ve got a plate that hits every note.

Now, don’t skip breakfast here-ever. Their Truffle Turkey with Butter Toast is layered with finesse: the umami from truffle, the smooth mushroom cream, peppery rocket, and that gooey egg. It’s indulgence without the guilt. Pair it with an Iced Tea or Raspberry Crush for something refreshing, or go the caffeine route with a cappuccino that’s robust, velvety, and just the right amount of bitter.

Dessert? There’s only one correct answer: Basque Cheesecake with Passion Fruit. It’s creamy, a little smoky from the burnt edges, and balanced by the sharp, tropical punch of passion fruit. If that’s not your thing (though it should be), go for something small and satisfying like their biscotti paired with an espresso-because Delaterra also knows how to do simplicity well.

And here’s the thing-whether you're a solo diner looking for a quiet bite, or catching up with a friend over small plates and wine, Delaterra adapts to your rhythm. It's popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but never feels overly crowded or chaotic. Just… intentional.

On the beverage front, the wine list is carefully curated-not overwhelming, but full of gems. Beer and spirits are available too, and you’ll notice that even the free water refills come with a touch of care. It’s small things like these that make Delaterra stand out in a city full of restaurants trying to be the next big thing.

The offerings here are thoughtful: plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and even organic dishes make it onto the menu. You won’t feel like an afterthought if you’ve got dietary preferences-Delaterra makes room for everyone without compromising flavor or creativity.

While it’s worth noting that there’s no wheelchair-accessible car park, the dine-in experience more than makes up for it. If you're on the go, takeaway is available, and thankfully, the quality travels surprisingly well.

Bottom line: Delaterra doesn’t follow food fads-it creates its own quiet current. And once you’ve eaten here, you’ll want to follow it wherever it goes.