Last Updated on May 7, 2025
A Spanish Fiesta in Victoria
3.5 out of 5.0 starsVictoria: the middle ground between Chelsea and Mayfair that’s often overlooked as a culinary destination. Tucked between the station and property offices, it quietly hosts restaurants that beckon foodies to the postcode. Among them is the newly opened Camino on Victoria Street – a Spanish spot serving up an eclectic mix of tapas in a lively, chic-yet-understated setting buzzing with curious guests.
Come Friday evening, the place fills with post-week chatter – wine flowing over gossip and plates of patatas bravas. Without the chi chi glamour of Mayfair around the corner, it’s casual enough to feel cosy (there are no white tablecloths here), yet chic enough for a weekend treat. And that’s exactly the plan I’ve made, as I take a university friend out to catch up over calamari.
We’re both foodies with a penchant for Spanish cuisine, so with a long and varied menu – and rumbling stomachs – choosing what to order is no easy feat. But as the plates begin to arrive fresh from the kitchen, we’re quickly satisfied that we’ve made the right choices.
Of course, a tapas meal is never truly complete without delicately salted Padron peppers, and these are the first to arrive, perfectly charred and blistered by open fire.
Next comes the braised oxtail, a rich dish where tender meat reigns supreme in a glazed, sweet sauce. Then come the prawns in a buttery parsley oil with a warming kick of chilli, alongside squid ink rice that amusingly stains our teeth – quickly forgiven once tasted.
At Camino, the fish is noticeably fresh, and the deep-fried calamari is a delight of crispy batter and a squeeze of lemon. But the real star here is the steak: pink, with the consistency of butter, cooked with care and attention and elevated by a vibrant chimichurri sauce.
On the side, a glorious (and generous) portion of delectable patatas bravas. Still warm, perfectly crispy on the outside with a soft, fluffy centre. The delicious potatoes were coated in mayonnaise and spicy sauce, definitely one to avoid if you’re not in the mood to indulge, but we were in heaven. Honestly, I’d come back for these alone.
Everything is washed down with a crisp Spanish Sauvignon Blanc, thoughtfully recommended by our waiter, who we chat to intermittently between bites. He’s so charming that we compliment his service to his manager on exiting. Indeed, at the sound of a fire alarm, as guests become flustered in their seats, he steps in with a calming, ‘Don’t worry, relax,’ and a generous top-up of wine. ¡Muchas gracias, Tim!
After such a variety of savoury dishes, something sweet is calling and we eagerly order the baked Basque cheesecake and the chocolate cigar – different enough to satisfy both a chocolate craving and a more substantial dessert itch.
Here in the heart of Victoria, Spanish tapas melt away the problems and stresses of the outside world. So grab a bestie and head to Camino while the patatas bravas are still hot.
Camino Victoria,
5-6, Zig Zag,
68 Victoria St,
London SW1E 6SQ
020 4580 1159
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