Tasty tapas on the Thames

Serving traditional Spanish tapas, The Port House have expanded from their Dublin base to the banks of the Thames.

Opening its doors in February, The Port House Strand is, as it says in the name, located on the Strand. A vibrant street dotted with theatres and a stone’s throw from Covent Garden.

The bar has taken its inspiration from all things Iberian, kick in the inviting lighting, bare stone brick walls, stripped back wooden floors, great staff and most importantly fine tapas, pintxos and wine gives you the recipe for an exceptional evening out.

Speaking to Premier Hospitality about the new venue, Director of The Port House, Lee Sim said:

“It was always our ambition to expand from our three tapas restaurants in Dublin and take the restaurant over to London.

“The building was in a relatively good shape when we took it over, the place was originally panelled and it was a shame to take the panelling down, but it just wouldn’t suit what we wanted to do. Our style is very simple; we strip the building back to nothing and make it feel rather like a cave or a cellar, using dark woods and candles.

“We have had great feedback since The Port House Strand opened its doors, there has been a great response from local workers in the area, tourists, and even the previous owner frequents the place.

“London has always been a hive of eateries from various different cultures and for us to open here and fit in so well, in the West End, is just fantastic.”

Giving an insight into the origins of The Port House brand, Lee added:

“My involvement is a bit confusing, I dropped out of college and ended up working in McDonalds and then fell into brewing. From there I went to work for The Porterhouse and then progressed from the brewing side to the restaurant side of things, establishing the first Port House back in 2006.

“We were originally looking to set up a wine bar in Ireland, but I wanted a good understanding of both food and wine. We had developed strong connections with Spain through brewing and other things over the years, so it just made sense to go for tapas.”

Lee added:

“Our passion for all things Spanish and Portuguese has taken our team from the rolling hills of the Riojan and Navarran countryside, through the bull running streets of Pamplona, up the steep ruelas of Lisbon and around many the back alley of Barcelona. Racking up quite the hefty “quinta”, we feel it our sole duty to comprehend every Cava, sample every Sherry and perceive every Port, fervently endeavouring to find the best Jamon Iberico, and struggling to taste one more croquette.”

To have a taste of Spain on the Strand visit: www.porthouse.ie/london.