Stepping into Lolo on Bermondsey Street, the latest venture from chef José Pizarro, feels like entering a warm, inviting blend of art, design, and Spanish-inspired dishes. Designed by Pattern Haus, the space combines terracotta hues, natural wood, and minimalist lighting to create an atmosphere that’s both chic and welcoming. The aesthetic reflects Pizarro’s Spanish roots and the vibrancy of Bermondsey itself, balancing traditional warmth with modern elegance. Every corner showcases Pizarro’s attention to detail, with artistic décor and earthy tones that make Lolo a memorable setting, closely tied to the creative energy of the neighbourhood.

A standout element at Lolo is the carefully curated art collection, which brings a distinct gallery-like feel to the dining experience. Works by Tracey Emin, known for her emotionally raw expression, add an introspective edge, while Peter Meades’ photography captures quieter, contemplative moments. Finnish artist Liu Susiraja’s satirical pieces introduce a playful contrast, lending a light-hearted edge to the space. What immediately caught our eye, however, were the striking Zephyr glass platters by Peter Layton—a celebrated British glass artist whose work is distinguished by soothing textures and intricate designs.

On the culinary front, José Pizarro’s menu at Lolo brings together comforting yet inventive dishes that are perfect for sharing, each thoughtfully paired with Mediterranean wines, including a refreshing selection of orange wines. First, we enjoyed the starters section, featuring small, flavour-packed plates like courgette carpaccio with Castilian pine nuts and tomatoes, as well as beetroot with oat milk and Marcona almonds.

From there, we moved on to larger dishes, such as the “rockfish” cuttlefish served with black squid ink sauce and rice, along with a delightful lentil stew featuring roasted pumpkin and hazelnuts—a true highlight. Egg lovers will find everything from omelettes to devilled and baked options on offer. To finish, the dessert menu features options including a hearty chocolate mousse, a carefully curated cheese board, the classic Spanish natillas (custard with biscuit), and daily specials. And if you’re unsure where to begin, Lolo’s attentive staff are on hand to guide you through each choice, ensuring an exceptional dining experience.

The restaurant is a journey into José Pizarro’s Spanish roots, reflecting his deep passion for both food and the arts. Situated near Bermondsey’s vibrant gallery scene—including White Cube, where Tracey Emin’s latest exhibition is currently on display—Lolo feels like a natural extension of the local creative landscape. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine before or after an art exhibition, raising a toast to Bermondsey’s thriving culinary and artistic offerings.

Location: Lolo, 102 Bermondsey St, London SE1 3UB. Website: josepizarro.com. Instagram: @jose_pizarro.