You may have known it as the Curtain Hotel, but over lockdown, it’s been transformed into the Mondrian Shoreditch, complete with the arrival of BIBO by Chef Dani García.
For those of you unfamiliar with the name, Garcia is a *big deal* in Spain – we’re talking three-Michelin star big. This is his first space in the UK and it’s a beaut open plan dining room, perfect for laid back lunches and late-night tapas.
Obviously, you must kick off with a glass of cava, or something stronger from the extensive cocktail menu. We love the Andalusian influence, meaning you’ll find the likes of BIBO’s signature double sangria (a shaved ice granita topped with red or white sangria), a “Rebujito” and “El agua de Sevilla” aka The Water of Seville. There’s also loads of vermouth dotted about, a drink that traditionally accompanies the aperitif and which socially marks the beginning of the weekend. Cheers to THAT.
In terms of what to eat, the menu is split into more traditional tapas – where you’ll find your beloved patatas bravas, padron peppers and tortilla and larger plates.
If you’re dining in a duo, highlights include the jamon croquetas with a creamy bechamel middle and delicious slithers of iberico ham on top; and the oxtail brioche – a dainty little bun stuffed with pulled meat and thinly sliced mushroom.
But really, you want to come in a group so you can get stuck into the impressive family-style sharing plates. Think whole lobster paella, Iberico ribs or txuleta steak for four. For dessert we’d highly recommend roping someone in to share the chocolate mousse for two (shouldn’t be that hard), otherwise, you can’t go wrong with an authentic slice of Basque cheesecake.
While waiting for your Uber to arrive, make sure you check out the selfie room. We’ll say no more…
