La Parada does Spanish-style tapas at pace — plates arrive continuously, the room is loud and packed, and the kitchen turns over a broad menu of patatas bravas, jamón, padron peppers, grilled prawns and croquettes with consistent quality. The V&A Waterfront branch has good views across the yacht basin. There is also a branch on Long Street in the City Bowl, which is smaller and tighter but easier to reach without a car.
Not a place for a quiet dinner, but good for groups who want to graze rather than order a single main. No reservations at the Waterfront branch — arrive early on summer evenings or expect to wait at the bar, which is not the worst way to spend time.