ON A pleasantly hot Thursday evening we ventured into Los Amigos tapas bar, after hearing the sound of flamenco guitar inside.

The limited space meant with about six people already in there it felt crowded, or cosy.

We went on the friendly waitress’ recommendation of five portions for a couple to share, and this turned out to be good advice as we both felt full afterwards.

Everything we chose was full of Mediterranean flavour – olives marinaded in oil, garlic and rosemary; patatas bravas, lovely small chunks of fried potatoes in a spicy tomato sauce and albondigas, Spanish style meatballs made with a blend of pork, spices and paprika in a tomato sauce.

I was most impressed with the pimientos de Padron, small green peppers pan fried in olive oil and sea salt.

Having spent some time in Galicia, I can say that I would not be able to tell the difference; they were equally deliciously bitter.

Likewise the fluffy potato tortilla was spot on; I only wish there had been more.

There was only one dessert but what a dessert it was. Waffles smothered in hot chocolate sauce and cold cream – and much to Andy’s dismay the waiter brought a second plate and fork so we could share.

The waiter, who had a great sense of humour, added to the relaxed holiday feel with his lovely accent (albeit Italian).

The delicious flavours and the live guitarist were so authentic, it really felt like we were back in Spain.

Only the view outside of the pawnbrokers and funeral directors brought us back to Chippenham with a thud.

Along with one-and-a-half pints of Alhambra lager and a bottle of Spanish cider, which tasted of honey but was not too sweet, the bill came to £35, a small price to pay for a lovely evening’s escape to the country of sunshine and sangria.

  • Where: 4 Market Place, Chippenham Tel: 01249 462692
  • Open Wed-Sat 5pm-11pm
  • Accepts Visa and Mastercard
  • Outdoor seating
  • Live Spanish guitar Thursdays