The buzz: This new SoHo bar and restaurant is founder, manager and chef Nigel M. Guttridge’s tribute to traditional Spanish tapas and international wine. Tucked into a cosy space near the end of Staunton Street, the place is great for tapas get-togethers.

The décor: If the thought of tapas and wine conjures images of a hoity-toity setting and frou-frou furnishings, think again. Though there are a few paintings and unassuming wall sculptures, wood finishes and minty green walls are the dominant motifs and give the place a distinctly down-to-earth feel. Stools cuddle a small bar area and there are several candlelit high tables spread about the J-shaped venue.  

The drinks: Along with standard drinks and cocktails, there is a selection of new and old world reds and whites on offer, all of which are served by the glass. The 2007 Marques de la Concordia Crianza is a popular tempranillo and those who prefer blanche should try one of the Marlborough region options, such as the Two Rivers sauvignon blanc. The allure of tapas paired with wine notwithstanding, it’s criminal not to imbibe Latitude 22’s sangria—a house specialty and our favorite libation of the evening.

The food: With dishes cooked virtually from scratch and high quality meats directly imported from Spain, it’s no wonder that each of the seven tapas we tasted induced prolonged, close-eyed mmms of approval. Everything was heavenly—from the artichoke and caramelized onion with fresh thyme leaves and black truffle oil to the black Iberian chorizo and wild mushrooms in aurora sauce. Make sure you order the rosemary bread and the Catalonian herb flat bread, both freshly baked onsite, to sop up every inch of the Spanish flavors.

Why you'll be back: Latitude 22 is an ideal place for a chat and a laugh over some truly mouth-watering tapas. Add to this the sangria and Nigel’s unpretentious hospitality and you’re bound to have a fiesta.