Front-Row at the Paella Show
I’ll start by saying this – Spanish food has never really been my jam. Too much garlic, too many smoky things, and don’t even get me started on the soggy potatoes. But that was before I walked into Arros QD and had my whole life rearranged by a pan of black ink rice.
Tucked away in Fitzrovia, Arros QD has the energy which is buzzy but not loud, chic but not snobby.
The open kitchen is pure theatre – and I lucked out with a seat right in front of it. Felt less like dinner and more like I’d scored VIP access to a live fire-and-paella performance.
Atmosphere:
Dark, moody lighting with glowy golden tones makes this place feel sexy without trying too hard. It’s the kind of spot where you could come on a date, celebrate a birthday, or just treat yourself on a random Tuesday (10/10 recommend).
Service:
Spot-on. Friendly, switched-on, and never hovering – just the right amount of “I’ve got you” energy without interrupting your wine-induced food trance.
Drinks:
Absolute vibes. If you’ve got time before or after your meal, hit the bar area – it’s giving grown-up, Spanish glamour with a nice cocktai.
Price: ££££
Pricey? A bit. Worth it? Absolutely. Would I go back and pay it again with zero regret? In a heartbeat.
What I Ordered:
Chicken Skewers
Don’t let the word “skewers” fool you – these aren’t your average backyard BBQ sticks. The chicken was juicy, smoky, and kissed with a sticky barbecue glaze that had just the right balance of sweet and savoury. The veal jus added a rich, velvety depth that made it feel properly luxe.
Octopus
Octopus was so tender. But the real twist? That sweet and sour paprika mojo – zingy, punchy, with just enough heat to keep things interesting. It pulled the whole dish together.
Grilled Asparagus
It was a clever mix of earthy, creamy, and crispy. These thick, smoky green Asparagus were grilled to just the right bite – tender with a hint of char, no soggy stalks here. My favorite was Iberian pancetta cristal – added a salty, melt-in-your-mouth hit of luxury.
*Black Ink Rice
You could taste the love in this paella – deep, briny, comforting, and ridiculously moreish.
The squid was tender with just the right chew, perfectly fried, and nestled between pops of fresh sugar snaps that gave a sweet crunch to balance all that umami depth. The pil pil emulsion added a silky, garlicky richness that made the whole thing feel downright indulgent.
Conclusion:
Final thoughts? I came in a sceptic, left a convert. Arros QD didn’t just change my mind about Spanish food – it kind of knocked it out the park. Go. Sit by the kitchen. Watch the show. And please, please, order the Black Ink Rice.
I would trade my Oyster card for another meal here.
Tips:
- Menu & bookings: Check out the full menu and book your table here – www.arrosqd.com
Got a gang of 6 or more? Lucky you – you can try the Tasting Menu, which looks very worth it. - Dress code? It’s relaxed and stylish – no need to get too fancy, but maybe leave the flip-flops at home.
- Events: Keep an eye out – they do special nights now and then (they once hosted a one-night-only Kosher dinner!). You never know what you’ll catch.
