La Fabrica — Restaurant in London

Short review: Bad greeting, drinks arrived after food, service was slow, food was bland.

Full Review: Went to La Fábrica (crouch end) on Saturday night for dinner as we wanted something fast, so tapas seemed like good choice.

We arrived about 7:45 and were greeted rather grumpily by a member of waiting staff bluntly asking if we’d booked. We hadn’t. Nevertheless we were seated and given menus.

A while later he returned to take a drinks order. We ordered a G&T and a bottle of beer and 2 traditionally fast plates (padron peppers and bread with tomato). We would order the rest when he returned with the drinks.

Whilst waiting for the drinks, a different waiter appeared and asked if we wanted to order. We said we had ordered drinks and 2 dishes but could order the rest. We went for patatas bravas, tortilla, chickpea stew and ham croquets.

A further 15 minutes later the peppers arrived on their own, but no sign of our drinks. We enquired after the drinks, and a third waiter said they were on their way. We had 3 different people serving our table but at the same time it felt like none!

Eventually the drinks came with a half-apology that they should have been served a while ago. Down to our last pepper, the patatas bravas arrived. Time passes and again, once there was a couple left, the bread with tomato comes.

Up to this point, the dishes had been very bland; the bread w/ tomato was a bit burnt and the tomatoes were more like a paste with some oregano on the top. All dishes could have done with more seasoning, a little salt could have gone a long way.

With these 3 dishes long since finished - and one hour into the ‘experience’ - we inform the waiter that we’re still waiting on the other 3. Surprisingly he then says ‘I’ll have to check/change your order as I thought you wanted them as starters and mains’. We both look baffled as this was not the case, we are here for tapas not a 3 course meal! The excuse is poor as we ordered 2 dishes with drinks and 4 later so, if they were dividing into starters and mains, that would not have added up!

I have a sip of my gin (night)mare and consider just asking for the bill and going elsewhere but then the croquets arrive unaccompanied. My other half try them as I’m a veggie and says they’re also very forgettable.

Once the croquetas were almost finished comes the tortilla and chickpea stew. The tortilla was actually tasty however was merely lukewarm, not hot. The chickpea stew was average.

When finished, we’re left with the empty plates for another overly long spell. They’re eventually collected; no enquiry is made as to the enjoyment (or lack) of the food and no dessert menu is offered.

We ask for the bill which was the fastest thing to arrive, although it took a while for them to come and take payment. The whole thing felt more like a bad tasting menu experience than tapas.

A really disappointing meal with service to match. We certainly won’t be going back...

Nestled in the heart of Crouch End, La Fabrica is a hidden gem for lovers of Spanish cuisine. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a cozy, rustic decor that instantly transports you to a traditional tapas bar in Spain. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring that each guest feels welcomed and well taken care of, enhancing the overall dining experience.

The food at La Fabrica is nothing short of spectacular. Every dish bursts with authentic flavors, fresh ingredients, and a genuine passion for Spanish culinary traditions. One standout dish is the arroz negro (black rice), which is a true delight for the senses. Made with squid ink, the rice has a rich, savory depth that perfectly complements the fresh seafood mixed into the dish. The unique, slightly briny flavor combined with the creamy texture makes this a must-try for anyone visiting. It’s not often that you come across a dish that leaves such a lasting impression, and the arroz negro at La Fabrica does just that, showcasing the chef's mastery in balancing bold flavors with delicate textures.

Beyond the black rice, the rest of the tapas menu is also incredible, with dishes like patatas bravas, garlic prawns, and chorizo al vino that are cooked to perfection. The portions are generous, making it easy to share multiple dishes and sample a bit of everything. Each dish is seasoned thoughtfully, and the presentation is as inviting as the flavors themselves. The restaurant also offers a fantastic selection of Spanish wines, which pair beautifully with the food and elevate the meal.

For anyone in or near Crouch End, La Fabrica is highly recommended. It’s the ideal spot for an evening out with friends or family, offering an authentic taste of Spain right in...

I'm hoping I caught them on an off night because it wouldn't take much to make this place perfect. The service was hit-and-miss. The young women on shift were doing their best, however, the older gentleman (possibly the owner) was being very unpleasant with them, and really, not a whole lot different with us, the clientele. Further to the service, there wasn't much in the way of support in explaining the food, which is necessary when it comes to tapas. The menu was extremely cryptic. The aesthetic of the place was also lacking. Decorated well, it looks the part, but the tinny music playing through old speakers is an odd choice. I'd sooner listen to no music than listen to that crackling noise. The saving grace here was the food. Wow! It was amazing. Small, yet filling portions, were indeed delicious, and were well-priced. Overall it makes the potential for a revisit very much likely. Hopefully, next time the management will be a little more welcoming, and the sound system will be updated or...