Bar Lorenzo

If you’re not a Chorlton local, you’ve probably never heard of Bar Lorenzo. Squeezed onto a corner of Beech Road, this tiny tapas place is of the blink-and-you'll-miss-it variety, with room for just 15 covers inside. However, on a sunny day each and every one of these seats is fought over, with enthusiastic diners spilling out onto tables along the pavement too. Run by husband and wife team Lorenzo and Immaculada Ruda, Bar Lorenzo does a fine line in cheap and cheerful tapas with an emphasis on quality ingredients and a flair for combining classic Spanish dishes with Immaculada’s own delicious concoctions.

The menu changes each day, with some dishes recurring often enough to gain a strong following on their own merit. The albondigas – meatballs cooked Andalusia-style in a rich, dry sauce – are a favourite with the locals, as is the ensalada de chicaros – mixed beans with home-roasted, piquant peppers and onions – and Immaculada’s fantastic whisky and pork casserole. With all three dishes coming in at under £4 a pop, most diners have plenty of money left to explore the Spanish wine menu or enjoy a crisp, chilled Cruz Campo.

With its cosy atmosphere, quick service, great food and credit-crunch friendly prices, Bar Lorenzo is a strong contender for our favourite restaurant in Chorlton.