Dine In Style At The Royal Academy Of Art’s New Spanish Hotspot

This is a sponsored article on behalf of the Royal Academy of Arts.

Think you’ve tried every chic dining spot central London has to offer? Here’s an exclusive venue serving up bold Spanish flavours, which you almost certainly haven’t visited. But we know how you can!

The Keeper’s House by José Pizarro opened at the Royal Academy of Arts (RA) in November — still a relative newbie on the London food scene. But with acclaimed chef and ‘Godfather of Spanish cuisine in the UK’ José Pizarro at the helm, it’s already got the culinary credentials to match some of the capital’s most beloved long-established restaurants.

Located in the former residence for the Keeper of the Royal Academy Schools (hence the name), The Keeper’s House is exclusively open to Friends of the RA and their guests. It’s comprised of several welcoming spaces, giving members somewhere to unwind and socialise, in historic surroundings — in the heart of the capital.

Swing by the Shenkman Bar for vibrant tapas-style plates, served with wines by the glass and classic cocktails. Settle into the neighbouring Dining Room for José Pizarro’s signature dishes in a warm, elegant setting. Got a special occasion in mind? The Reading Room is an intimate area for celebrations and small group bookings, offering set menus of tapas classics for groups of six to 20 guests.

Wherever you book (and booking is recommended as The Keeper’s House is popular, though walk-ins are welcome, subject to availability), you can enjoy vibrant, Spanish-inspired dishes crafted from fresh, carefully-sourced ingredients, surrounded by walls jostling with art.

All-day dining is available from 11.30am, with late opening until 9pm Wednesday to Saturday.

Access to this exclusive dining destination is far from the only reason to become a Friend of the RA — though it’s a very tasty one! You’ll also get unlimited free access to the Royal Academy’s world-class exhibitions (with a guest), including new exhibition, Rose Wylie, opening on 28 February and showcasing some of the rebel painter’s most iconic artworks, as well as brand-new and previously unseen paintings.

Opening in March, the Michaelina Wautier exhibition puts the 17th century trailblazer back in her rightful place as one of Europe’s most important artists. That’s two era-defying artists, three centuries apart… and one place to see them this spring.

Shop discounts, special events (see the latest exhibitions before anyone else on special Preview days…), and priority booking are also benefits of becoming a Friend of the RA, along with the RA Magazine delivered to your door four times a year. Considering the cultural and culinary benefits you get from joining, it’s remarkably good value: A Young Friends membership starts from £70 for those aged 16-35, giving you a year of unlimited access and membership benefits for the equivalent of just three exhibition tickets. Standard Friends membership starts from £148 for the year.

Once you’re a Friend of the RA, you can bring up to three guests with you to The Keeper’s House by José Pizarro, whether you’re grabbing a light bite after an exhibition, swinging by for a drink after work or catching up over a leisurely dinner.

Get your membership today, and start planning your next cultural day out… rounded off with unforgettable food and drinks.