Seemor
Cambio De TercioB+Worth Trying
163 Old Brompton Rd, London SW5 0LJ
· Spanish restaurant, Bar, European restaurant
· 4.3/5 Google (753 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Inventive Spanish tapas with standout flavors, but high prices and divisive service—best for adventurous diners who value creativity over tradition.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Cambio De Tercio delivers exceptional food quality with inventive Spanish tapas—the roast tomatoes and croquettes are genuinely standout—and benefits from a desirable South Kensington location. However, inconsistent execution across dishes, variable service reliability, and tight seating that compromises comfort prevent it from reaching grade A territory. The creative, fusion-forward menu appeals to adventurous diners but limits accessibility for traditionalists, and pricing sits at the premium end without universal agreement on value justification.
Restaurant Summary
Cambio De Tercio delivers a creative spin on Spanish tapas in the heart of South Kensington, drawing both locals and visitors with its inventive menu and lively, bustling atmosphere. The kitchen shines with standout dishes like the slow-cooked roast tomatoes and ham croquettes, while the wine list is extensive and thoughtfully curated. Expect a vibrant scene—tables are close, the energy is high, and reservations are a must.The culinary approach here leans contemporary Spanish with fusion influences, making it a great fit for adventurous eaters and those who appreciate creative twists on classic flavors. The menu features everything from kimchi-laced hot dogs to blow-torched sea bream, so traditionalists seeking paella or chicken tapas may leave disappointed. Pricing is firmly in the 'expensive' bracket, but many diners feel the quality and inventiveness justify the splurge.For families: Experiences are mixed. Some reviewers describe a warm welcome for children and family-friendly service, while others recount less accommodating interactions—especially if kids are noisy or restless. The menu offers several vegetarian and vegan options (padron peppers, grilled avocado, roast tomatoes), but lacks the simple, familiar dishes that picky eaters or young children might expect. If your kids are adventurous, they'll find something to try; otherwise, consider alternatives.
At a Glance
- Inventive Spanish tapas with standout signature dishes.
- Lively, energetic atmosphere in a prime South Kensington location.
- Strict reservation policies, time limits, and minimum spend requirements.
- Service can be inconsistent, with reports of inflexible or unsympathetic management.
- Creative/fusion menu—not traditional comfort food; limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters.
What Sets It Apart
- creative_spanish_tapas
- signature_roast_tomatoes
- extensive_wine_list
What People Love
- The slow-cooked roast tomatoes—described as 'incredible' and a must-try
- Creamy, savory ham croquettes that win over regulars and newcomers alike
- Attentive staff (when on form) and flexible reservation handling
- The vibrant, energetic ambiance that makes for a memorable night out
- A wine list that impresses even the most discerning oenophiles
Points of Concern
- Service can be inconsistent, with some diners reporting rude or inflexible management—especially around reservations and minimum spend.
- Strict reservation policies, time limits, and minimum spend requirements can catch guests off guard.
- Some traditional Spanish favorites (paella, chicken tapas) are missing from the menu, frustrating purists.
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (£25+ mains, £40+ wine), which may surprise casual diners.
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£45-65 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Try the creative vegetable tapas (roast tomatoes, grilled avocado, padron peppers) for lighter options.
- Seafood lovers should sample the Sea Bream or King Prawns.
- Wine list is extensive but starts at £40/bottle—ask staff for recommendations to match your meal.
Perfect For
- Adventurous foodies seeking creative Spanish cuisine
- Wine lovers looking for an extensive, curated list
- Groups celebrating special occasions
- Locals or visitors wanting a lively night out in South Kensington
Location Insights
Area: Upscale, cosmopolitan neighborhood with a mix of affluent locals, international visitors, and professionals; stylish yet relaxed vibe.
Safety: Very safe, well-maintained, high foot traffic, good lighting; typical of South Kensington.
Nearby: Close to museums (V&A, Natural History), boutique shops, hotels, and residential streets; attracts both locals and tourists.
Old BromptonA sophisticated urban neighborhood characterized by elegant Victorian and Edwardian townhouses, proximity to cultural institutions, and a refined dining and lifestyle scene.
South Kensington EdgeA transitional area blending the prestigious South Kensington core with the more diverse West Brompton neighborhood, featuring upscale residential properties and boutique dining establishments.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday12:00–14:30, 18:30–23:30
Wednesday12:00–14:30, 18:30–23:30
Thursday12:00–14:30, 18:30–23:30
Friday12:00–14:30, 18:30–23:30
Saturday12:00–15:00, 18:30–23:30
Sunday12:00–15:00, 18:30–22:30
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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