Originally hailing from southwest Spain, José Pizarro opened his first restaurant, the much-loved tapas bar José, on Bermondsey Street in 2011. His small empire now includes Pizarro Bermondsey, minutes away from the original José and its neighbouring all-day dining spot Lolo; the Keeper’s House by José Pizarro, open only to members of the Royal Academy of Arts; and The Swan Inn, Pizarro’s first gastropub, in Surrey. Through his restaurants – plus his line of regional Spanish cookbooks and regular television appearances – Pizarro has been instrumental in popularising Spanish cuisine in London. These are 10 things he loves.
Spence Blades knives, from £175
I met Will [Spence] at my pub, The Swan Inn, and once I used his knives there was no going back. They are beautifully made, perfectly balanced and a joy to cook with every day. They have become my favourites and are now my go-to present for friends who love food.
Del Duque amontillado by Bodegas Gonzalez Byass, from £25
I always need this amontillado (sherry) in my cellar and in all my restaurants. It is complex, calm and comforting. A glass of Del Duque is honestly one of the best ways to slow me down and reset.
Pilot Frixion pen, from £3
As a dyslexic person, this pen has been a real friend. It helps me organise my thoughts, correct mistakes easily and feel confident when writing menus and notes. Simple but life changing.
Ofyr grill, from €2,395
The perfect way to spend a day, all year round. Fire, people, food and time. This grill gives ingredients incredible flavour and the best natural seal. Cooking outside always reminds me why I love food.
Paul Smith socks, from £20
Who does not need a bit of colour in their life? These socks are fun, incredibly comfortable and lift my mood instantly, especially on long days.
Catalina smoked anchovies, £18.50
When I discovered these anchovies they became part of my life – at home and in all my restaurants. They are pure luxury, clean and beautifully cured.
Microplane zester, from £25
I cannot live without it. From cheese to garlic to citrus and spices, it gives perfect zest every time. Precise, sharp and it brings out the best of ingredients without bruising them.
Barbour tartan lining jacket, £250
Comfort, protection and confidence. My jacket makes me feel safe in all weather and all situations, whether I am in the countryside or walking into a restaurant.
Clarence Court (Old Cotswold Legbar) eggs, from £3.50
After a long day, these eggs are my friends. Always at home, always reliable, with beautiful yolks and real flavour. They save my dinner more often than I admit.
José Pizarro extra virgin olive oil, £16
This one is very personal. As my mum Isabel always says, extra virgin olive oil looks after our health. She is 92 years old and still strong, and she has used good olive oil all her life. Fresh, balanced and honest, this is the oil I use every day and believe in deeply.
Things I Love is a series devoted to London’s most exciting tastemakers and the products they’re obsessed with.
