Maresco

Maresco brings the spirit of the Iberian coast to Soho, channelling the easy elegance of Spanish dining with a distinctly Scottish seafood. The kitchen leans into charcoal, seafood and seasonality, weaving together regional classics and thoughtful sourcing -think wild Shetland halibut meeting arroz negro, or Highland venison given a refined, tapas-adjacent turn.

There is a natural rhythm to the menu. Para picar sets the tone, moving between chipirones and a tasteful sweep of cheeses and Iberian charcuterie. Vegetables arrive with character - courgette flower in tempura with honey, or cauliflower kissed by charcoal and brightened with mojo verde and pomegranate. From the grill, gambas a la brasa carry that smoky lift, while charcoal Zamora lamb and venison with Jerusalem artichoke puree and grape-mustard hint at deeper, autumnal notes.

Weekdays invite an unhurried lunch - perhaps chipirones or croquetas menorquinas before arroz de marisco or pollo con romesco -and evenings close sweetly with Basque cheesecake or torrija with coffee ice cream. A considered list of sherries, dessert wines and an after-dinner flourish from Talisker, an Espresso Martini or Ron Miel complete the arc.

For those seeking Spanish flair with a Scotland poise, Maresco rewards lingering and sharing. Pull up a chair, order a little, then a little more - and let the tide of flavour roll in.