El Cerdo

First time at El Cerdo. Nice restaurant, nice setting in Maidenhead town. Only open for lunch Friday and Saturday, so Friday was quieter and a nice atmosphere. We all enjoyed the quality, taste, and variety of tapas dishes. For 3 of us we opted for lunch 2x3 selected tapas, adding one special from board, and bread with olive oil. The size of the dishes was perfect, not too small as tapas in other places can feel like a ration. Large drink selection, though not non alcoholic cider. Lunch closes at 15:30 so our lunch from 13:15 was leisurely with dishes arriving as ready. All very Spanish! Staff were attentive and helpful. Individual men and ladies toilet.

Arriving on a Friday night after 9 and being able to get a walk in table for 2 was a highlight but it may have become clear why. The atmosphere was lovely with friendly staff and a good selection of food on the menu and specials. Unfortunately the food was undersl seasoned and bland. Although we'll cooked the food didn't have much flavour what is supposed to be authentically spanish. We had a tortilla which lacked seasoning and could have done with an accompanying sauce. The croquettas de jamon were fluffy and soft and came out hot. By far the best part of the meal. The biggest disappointment was the Paella. Bland, watery and with mushy seafood. The whole prawn looked sophisticated but de shelling and needing to devein it on the table doesn't make for a smooth eating experience. After this experience it all felt a little expensive for what we were expecting. The croqettas coming in at £3 per and with the Paella at 16 is a little much for a poorly cooked small plate.

We stumbled across this charming little tapas bar right next to the river—a quiet spot bathed in glorious sunshine, perfect for enjoying the outdoor view. Eager for recommendations, we turned to the incredibly friendly team and Weronika directed us to the perfect selection of tapas. We indulged in a selection of delectable dishes: succulent gambas, fresh sourdough bread for dipping in garlic and chilli oil, and ham croquettes that boasted the creamiest filling. The highlight was undoubtedly the beef short rib, slow-cooked for 12 hours until it practically melted in our mouths, accompanied by the smokiest parsnip purée and a hint of vibrant basil oil. During our visit, we were fortunate enough to meet Diego, the Head Chef, who oversees this restaurant and another location nearby. He was a lovely guy who clearly knows his craft. With its delightful ambiance, exceptional food, and welcoming friendly helpful staff, I would highly recommend this wonderful tapas bar to anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.

Despite having no booking, we have been welcomed to sit at the bar which turned out to be the perfect spot. It was a lovely dinner, Memo our waiter has been taking great care of us, the sangria was so good and the food alongside it went down like a treat!

UPDATE - after this review, the restaurant contacted me, and invited us back for a proper meal. I'm glad to report that last week's fiasco was an aberration, the restaurant clearly do care about providing great food and service. The dishes were tasty and served with care. Will return for the new menu ________________________ Very disappointed with our meal. I came once before, and it was great, but was really let down tonight. They clearly forgot to pass the bulk of the order to the kitchen, we had a hard out to get to the cinema, but was still charged (or tried to be ) for the dishes that we didn't have time to eat The food was did get was tasty, but not enough ... The cinema nachos were more satisfying Will not return when there are many more reliable choices locally