Donostia Social Club closes its Pop Brixton flagship to focus on Tapas Room expansion

Basque-inspired tapas restaurant Donostia Social Club (DSC) will close its restaurant in Pop Brixton this month after three years at the site to focus on the expansion of its Tapas Room concept.

The restaurant, which was voted Brixton’s favourite restaurant by Eat In Brixton upon opening, has chosen to close on 7 April, following news that Pop has extended its lease for another two years.

“We feel it’s a good time to invite a fresh operator to enjoy this brilliant location, and hand over the reins of the ‘King of the Castle’ container,” says owner Paul Belcher on the decision to close.

“Donostia Social Club will remain as an event and private party caterer and will maintain its associations with brands such as Campo Viejo and Rioja providing Spanish and Basque food at their events and festivals.”

The team currently operates sister business The Tapas Room, a wine shop, tapas bar and deli in Tooting’s Broadway Market.

Presented as a more concise version of DSC, The Tapas Room has become Belcher’s preferred roll out option. The team will open a second site in early May in Deptford, south-east London.

The new The Tapas Room will serve a selection of specialist wines, sherries and Cava from the Basque region, alongside a charcuterie and cheese menu.

Produce will be available to cook with at home, and an off-licence will allow for takeaway and the delivery of hampers.

“We love the idea of The Tapas Room being the local go to place to shop, eat and learn about wine, and look forward to opening our doors to Deptford,” says Belcher.