There’s nothing better than having a secret hideaway where you can retreat without anyone knowing.

I have a few, but one of my ultimate favourites is the new tashas at the V&A Waterfront. It’s the best to flop onto one of their comfy window seats and order a glass of Cava, a Spanish sparking wine.

The Boqueria Market photographed by Mark Cutler

I last drank this delicious muti – I call it that because I’m often in need of some medicine when a timeout is on the cards – was at the Boqueria Market in Barcelona. Among the endless stalls and abundant rows of veggies, fish and fruit at this market, there is one tapas bar where the grill-top is packed with octopus tentacles, tiny green peppers and razor clams bought from the traders. You can’t get anything fresher! When they run out of legs or shells, they just slip away to the market quickly to stock up.

On the home front, I believe the best Spanish tapas in my neck of the woods is to be found at this branch of tashas. There’s a huge list of dishes to choose from, all of which are prepared very authentically. Octopus is one of my favourite types of seafood, so their salad of crunchy fennel tossed with octopus pieces and homemade mayo is always ordered. That is followed by the pickled octopus, and the jamon croquettes and, and, and….

This place has a buzzy vibe and plenty of new mags to immerse yourself in, just when you need a treat.

Hasta la vista!

Abigail