The True Taste of Spain

Authenticity extends beyond simply reproducing well-known dishes. It lies in an understanding of origin: the landscapes that shape ingredients, the producers who uphold established methods and the regional identities that distinguish one culinary tradition from another. In response, Spain has taken steps to formalise standards overseas. In 2020, the Spanish government, through ICEX, introduced the ‘Restaurants from Spain’ and ‘Colmados from Spain’ certification schemes, accrediting restaurants and specialist retailers considered to best represent Spanish gastronomy and produce. The programme has expanded steadily since then. Today, nearly 50 UK restaurants are certified, alongside about a dozen specialist food and wine shops.

The certification is underpinned by a formal assessment framework designed to establish consistent standards. Restaurants are evaluated on factors including culinary expertise, staff knowledge and the prominence of Spanish dishes and products on the menu. Particular weight is given to the use of ingredients protected by Spanish designation schemes, reflecting an emphasis on provenance as well as preparation.

The range of businesses carrying the certification illustrates the breadth of Spain’s culinary influence in the UK. Among them is José Pizarro, whose renowned group of restaurants has played a prominent role in introducing regional Spanish cooking to British diners. His menus draw heavily on ingredients associated with his native Extremadura, including Ibérico ham, pimentón and olive oil, while dishes such as milk-fed lamb and Riojan-style hake reflect the country’s strong regional traditions.

Image credit: Rebecca Hope Photogrpahy

The scheme also includes retailers. Ultracomida, for example, has built a business around bringing Spanish food culture to a Welsh audience. Founded in Aberystwyth in 2001 by husband-and-wife team Paul Grimwood and Shumana Palit, the group combines delicatessens, tapas restaurants and wine retailing, with a focus on sourcing directly from producers across Spain. Over the past 25 years, it has helped shift perceptions of Spanish food beyond familiar staples, introducing customers to a wider range of regional cheeses, cured meats, seafood and specialist pantry products.

Across restaurants, tapas bars, delicatessens and specialist wine merchants, the emphasis remains consistent: the closer dishes and products are to their culinary context in Spain, the more faithfully they reflect the cuisine in a UK setting.

Discover certified restaurants and shops in the UK listed here:

foodswinesfromspain.com/en/certified-from-spain

Image credit: Monica R Goya