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Learn moreMadrid, Spain
Smack dab in the middle of Spain lies vibrant Madrid—the country's storybook capital. Each of its eclectic neighbourhoods has its own distinct charm: You'll find hipster vibes in Malasaña, where quaint shops make way for club crowds after dark; upscale eats and top-tier boutiques in Salamanca; and steep, maze-like streets lined with authentic restaurants and great people-watching in Lavapies. And don't miss Madrid's popular landmarks. A few favourites: The great bear statue in the central Puerta del Sol, the Reina Sofia and Prado museums, and Plaza Mayor. Finish things off with 10 p.m. tapas (it's how the locals do it), then hit the bars and clubs if that's your thing. Find even more Madrid recs below.
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Best tapas in Madrid
As a wine writer who frequently visits Madrid, I've discovered this elegant capital is also one of the world's best food cities. Despite its regal flair, Madrid gets fewer tourists than other major European cities, making dining out much more affordable. Though several regions claim to be the origin of tapas, this starter tradition is firmly ingrained in Madrid culture. Must-eats include ribbons of salty-sweet Jamón Ibérico, crispy patatas bravas, blistered padrón peppers, and cod-stuffed croquetas; all washed down with delicious, affordable wine.
Lauren Mowery, Charleston, SC
La Venencia320No photos, no bookings, and wait service as creaky as the century-old floorboards, the charms of La Venencia are inarguable. It's one of Madrid's best sherry and tapas bars for evoking the vibe of a traditional tabanco (tavern). Sometimes, it's jam-packed; on other occasions, a spindly wooden table, a plate of manchego and chorizo, and a carafe of wine are easy to come by.
Bar La Paloma105I never let the brightly lit utilitarian space dissuade me from entering Bar La Paloma. If anything, these signs point to La Paloma's singular focus—fresh, affordable shellfish and cheap draft beer. When I wander the La Latina neighbourhood, I'll pop in for shrimp on the grill (gambas plancha), a plate of clams (almejas), and a glass of white vermouth. I do as the Spanish do and eat standing at the bar.
Mercado de San Antón2,505I love markets, especially in Madrid, where I can tapas crawl between stalls while sipping a glass of Rioja. This upmarket food hall in the festive Chueca neighbourhood has a traditional market on the ground floor and vendors on the second floor offering a range of snackable classics from salty-sweet jamón, crunchy croquetas, and Spanish cheeses. There's abundant seating for those with families or diners who want to rest their feet.
Mercado de San Miguel34,507First opened in 1916 and then renovated in 2009, this market attracts hordes of tourists, which raises the prices. Yet, the festive ambiance, twenty food stalls, and plentiful seating make up for it. My New York flights often land earlier than hotel check-in, so I'll pass the morning at San Miguel—-when it's least crowded—with a glass of Cava, jamón bocadillo (sandwich), and a fried seafood cone.
Bodega de la Ardosa1,399I don't go here for friendly service, though a little Spanish goes a long way with the brusque, busy staff. Instead, I make a beeline for Madrid's best Tortilla Española, a fluffy succulent sensation of eggs and potatoes served in a pie wedge. When in season, I also order the artichokes. Steeped in olive oil until soft, then crisped on a hot plancha, they changed my mind about this thorny vegetable. The place gets busy, so always check the back room for tables.
La Perejila502Everyone should wander down Cava Baja on an empty stomach at least once. This is the street for tapas, and La Perejila stands out from the crowd. I know I've arrived when I spy the forest green doors trimmed in holiday red. The whimsical ambiance continues inside with twinkling chandeliers and a mural of flamenco dancers. If I'm on a tapas crawl, I'll order lighter dishes like juicy gazpacho and octopus dusted in sweet paprika with a carafe of sangria.
Vi Cool1,054Madrid is chock-full of old-school tapas bars. While fun, sometimes I crave a contemporary twist in a seated restaurant. For that, I head to Vi Cool. The menu changes regularly and weaves international flavours into Spanish dishes like fried prawns with curry and mint or kimchi chicken wings. While the wine list is short, Vi Cool offers an excellent range from Albariño to Tempranillo for an incredible 5-6 dollars a glass.
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