We visited Pintura on a cool October Saturday. Even at 5.30pm the place was busy with groups of friends and couples alike, so booking is advised. The restaurant is laid out over three floors with the lower ground being a laid back bar area, but again you can eat down there too.
The first thing you notice at Pintura is the ambience. This is a very relaxed venue, with calm décor adding to the feeling of cool.
So down to the food. Quite simply ‘amazing’. The menu offers the usual Tapas suspects whilst the Specials Board provides something a little different. Pan Con Tomate is simple but delicious.
We followed this with Hamburgesa (A burger small in size but huge in flavour and Cangrejo (Spiced Crab and Red Snapper Gel, wonderful). A Meat Platter featured Smoked Duck Breast, Chorizo, Salami and two types of Ham. Delicious with crusty breads. 
Now the main event. Pastel de Carne. Beef Cheek is braised to melt in the mouth perfection and topped with Truffle and Whipped potato. This is simply divine to devour.
The Beef Cheek seems to merge with your tongue and immerse it in flavour. We paired this with Crispy Belly Bacon, very tasty and well presented and Patatas Bravas. Marinated Tiger Prawns with Pepper Alioli made wonderful finger food, the spiced sauce turning fingers into a must lick!
Sweets were Doughnuts and Strawberry Parfait. Both delicious and beautifully presented.
The drinks menu is comprehensive, if a little biased towards Gin & Tonics, but again well-constructed and refreshing. The overwhelming feature of Pintura is the staff. They are well educated in the ingredients and preparation of each item available. Concise yet friendly advice and recommendations were given, and they really were very friendly and caring. I was more than happy to offer a generous and well-earned tip. Service can make or break a dining experience, and I can say the guys and gals made the night special.
By Steve Heeson