Las Bombas

The re-generation of Salford’s suburban areas has been in full swing for some time, with neighbourhoods like Monton and Worsley thriving. Irlam is now following suit. With its newly renovated railway station and increasing number of great places to eat and drink, understanding why people are flocking here is easy, and Las Bombas is among the big draws. Taking a direct lead from one of the most vivid and intoxicating continents on the planet, Las Bombas comes complete with a great outside terrace and summer garden. Known for its bold flavours, lively atmosphere, and dedication to top-quality Latin American-inspired cuisine, the restaurant has cultivated a loyal following.

Influenced by South and Central American food and culture, this beautifully designed tapas restaurant and bar is the brainchild of owner James Saadat. Having travelled across the continent, the proprietor and chef of Las Bombas has gathered vast knowledge about local food, which he fuses together to create the menus. A vibrant and stylish spot inspired by the colours, cultures and cuisines in countries such as Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and the southern Caribbean, signature dishes on the tapas menu include crowd favourites like Birria Tacos, Brazilian cheese bread (Pão de Queijo), and the ever-popular steak with chimichurri. The menu evolves regularly to keep things fresh and current highlights include salmon tostadas, lamb barbacoa skewers, and pork sirloin with burnt pineapple ketchup. 

Sharing is at the heart of the Las Bombas experience and their most popular tray, The Meats, is a carnivore’s dream, stacked with 8oz flat iron steaks, glazed chicken wings, pork sirloin, and Creole sausages. It’s served alongside beef Birria mac & cheese, loaded fries, truffle gravy and pepper cream sauce. For the truly hungry, they also have a 1-kilo Tomahawk sharer board. Vegetarians and coeliacs are equally well catered for too, with dedicated menus offering a wide variety of thoughtfully crafted dishes. Vegan and gluten-free diners are more than welcome too, and get menus of their own, with many of the main dishes transformed to suit intolerances, while the likes of roquito pepper paella and crispy avocado tacos among the unique dishes for those swerving animal produce. 

Their weekly offering also includes Steak Night every Wednesday, on Thursdays there’s live music and on Friday night, it’s all about tacos. Saturdays are all about bottomless brunch with a great live music soundtrack. All of that aside, it’s also worth noting there’s a great bar in operation with imported beers and spirits from South America, a long list of sangrias and cocktails, and a well-balanced selection of wines. Oh, and above the restaurant-proper you’ll find a quirky upstairs drinking den with live music and DJ sets, just in case the mood strikes.