Currently in a soft opening phase, the 1400sq.ft location caters for 60-70 covers. It is the first venture into the restaurant industry for owner George Rockett.
“De La Panza is a culmination of a lot of blood, sweat and tears,” Rockett told BigHospitality. “I’ve always wanted to open a place like this. I’m half-Argentinean and I absolutely love the whole vibe of the place- informal, delicious food, a real neighbourhood gem.
“I’ve frequently travelled to Buenos Aries and I liked the high quality and variety of food Argentina offers, and the sense of community it brings to its customers.”
The menu will feature steaks, stews, tapas, pistos, escabeches and tartas, as well as a list of artisan wines, starting at around £15.
Upbeat style
De La Panza’s style will replicate that of traditional bodegóns – upbeat, informal restaurants and cafes found all over Argentina. The décor is simple and light, with stools and high tables for those wanting to have a tapas, and tables for sit-down eating.
The head chefs are a husband and wife from Spain. Rockett’s partner and front of house is Gastón Carrano, known in the industry as ‘el toro’, who has been in the Argentine restaurant scene for seven years, having set up Buen Ayre in London’s Broadway Market.
Rockett added: “We had the restaurant’s first week last week and so far it has been a huge success, but we don’t have any plans to expand at the moment.”
The restaurant is located at 105-107 Southgate Road. More information can be found at www.delapanza.co.uk.