Bibo

Bibo in London opens downstairs at Virgin Hotels London–Shoreditch, and the room fills fast with chatter, clinking glasses, and the scent of saffron rice. From the first step, Bibo places modern Spanish flavors front and centre: tapas for sharing, skillet paellas made to order, and signature bites that arrive hot and loud. The bar hums with inventive cocktails, and the express £25 lunch proves this kitchen aims to be both exciting and accessible. Bibo delivers Dani García’s Andalusian vision adapted for Shoreditch’s energetic audience.

Dani García leads the concept, and his three-Michelin-star pedigree informs technique without making the dining feel formal. García opened BiBo outposts across Spain and internationally, and this is his first UK project. His philosophy focuses on punchy flavors, seasonal sourcing, and translating high culinary standards into shareable plates. Bibo’s menu blends Andalusian staples with subtle Japanese aromatics, a pairing you can taste in sauces, finishing salts, and delicate umami notes.

The restaurant does not claim Michelin stars itself, but its leadership and menu reflect the discipline of a top-tier kitchen. Reviewers praise authenticity and boldness, and the kitchen emphasizes premium olive oil, quality seafood, and hand-made touches. At Bibo, signature dishes anchor the experience. Start with jamón croquetas dusted with tomato powder, creamy inside and crisp outside.

The pulled oxtail brioche combines braised oxtail, roasted mushrooms, DG sauce, and peppery rocket on soft bread. The Russian salad layers quail egg, potato, tuna belly, garlic chips, and EVOO mayonnaise for a rich, textured share plate. Paella arrives on a metal skillet for two; choose whole grilled blue lobster (£60) or roasted chicken (£46), both served with perfectly caramelised socarrat at the edges. Vegetarian paella, with carrots, broccolini, mushrooms and kale, shows the kitchen’s care for plant-led options.

Small plates rotate by season, and the open kitchen prepares tapas with quick sears, flash-frying, and precise reductions. Expect bright acidic touches, smoky grilled notes, and sauces finished to coat each forkful. The menu mixes familiar Spanish comfort with unexpected techniques and plating. For dessert, lighter finishes offset the savory parade, and cocktails often use citrus and herbal bitters to cut through rich flavors.

Service at Bibo matches the restaurant’s mood: prompt, lively, and knowledgeable about pairings. Staff guide groups through portion sizes, recommend paella timing, and keep pacing casual yet efficient. The interior trades formality for industrial-chic details: concrete floors, dark metals, and an open kitchen anchored by a central sit-up bar. A private dining room offers quieter gatherings, and a small courtyard provides outdoor seating when weather allows.

The lower-ground setting creates a contained, buzzing atmosphere ideal for nights out and celebratory dinners. Sound levels lean energetic; expect music, conversation, and a convivial crowd, especially on weekend evenings. Practical details matter: book ahead for Friday and Saturday nights, and plan paella orders 24–48 hours in advance for larger groups. Dress codes are smart-casual—no formal wear required—and the express lunch is perfect for weekday business or quick indulgence.

Reservations can be harder to secure on peak nights, so early bookings improve choice of seating near the open kitchen or in the courtyard. For diners seeking bold, shareable Spanish cuisine in East London, Bibo offers a distinct proposition: a three-Michelin-star chef’s approach translated into tapas, paella, and a social dining format. The food is deliberately tactile, the portions tailored for groups, and the prices range from accessible tapas to premium paella options. Visit Bibo for a lively dinner, a long weekend lunch, or a memorable paella evening; the restaurant rewards those who arrive hungry and ready to share plates, drinks, and conversation.