Tapas? Yes, but so much more. La Bodega Restaurant in Chalfont St Peter has a well-established reputation as the place to go for delicious food, a warm, friendly atmosphere and rather special wines. From a casual lunch with friends, to a big celebration, it won’t disappoint. In fact, I’ll use any excuse to feed my addiction for their heavenly Berenjenas Al Horno (baked aubergines with tomatoes and cheese, to you and me).
But what’s the secret of their success? It’s simple. The owner, Juan Gil Rios (photographed with the desserts), has already created several successful Italian restaurants with his business partners in the Bucks/Berkshire area, including La Cantina in Marlow. So unsurprisingly, with his more recent venture he wanted folks to experience his native Spanish food. And how?
The large tapas menu includes specialities from his home region of Galicia, such as Pulpo A La Gallega – exquisite marinated octopus with potatoes, but also numerous meat, fish and vegetarian options from across Spain – some you’ll recognise, some you may not, but each guaranteed to make your mouth water. And don’t expect the tiny portions served at some tapas restaurants – these are all good sized plates – more like the Spanish raciones. All the food is cooked freshly to order, so if you get food envy, you can always order additional dishes.
Señor Gil Rios also understands the need for good wine to complement such delicious food. In fact he personally selects and imports superb wines at very acceptable prices – naturally there is are some fabulous riojas, but whatever your preferred source country, you’ll find some great choices.
The restaurant is in an attractive 17th Century building, formerly The George Inn, however it’s been transformed internally into a light, spacious and welcoming venue, with a lovely outside area for those lazy summer days.
Most of the staff are Spanish-speaking and are patient and encouraging if you want to practise your holiday Spanish, but if that’s not for you, they all speak perfect English too.
So how to finish? Well with dessert of course. And despite your straining waist-band you’ll struggle to resist the sweet trolley – cheese cakes, chocolate cakes, crème brulée, profiteroles and even the traditional Galician Tarta de Santiago – all freshly made and begging to be eaten.
The restaurant has its own car-park and, in case the wine proves too irresistible, its own aparthotel next door, RiosHouse George-Inn,– book yourself a table, you deserve it.
By Dr K Thompson, author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast cancer – by a doctor who knows
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A7DM42Q http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7DM42Q
http://faitobooks.co.uk
Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice.