Many years ago I discovered La Alhambra when an Algerian friend was visiting. She’d heard about Madrid’s thriving Moroccan community, so we went on a mission to find an authentic tasting tagine.

To be honest, I’d scarcely registered this place before and had never been tempted to walk in. The interior is a bit institutional, and the outside is less than appealing. It’s the kind of place that I’d have poked my head into and then bid a hasty retreat. So I feel really lucky to have been pointed in the right direction that day all those years ago because the food in La Alhambra is amazing, well-priced and consistent, making up for any other failings. It’s still one of my favourite places to eat.

Try a tasty vegetable couscous crowned with caramelised onions, lamb tagine, grilled fish or Moroccan meatballs. Mixed plates come with spiced rice, chips and spiced vegetables. They have traditional harira soup, and Maghreb salad, as well as delicious traditional hot mint tea. Middle-Eastern pastries are the perfect way to finish off.

Also, I especially recommend La Alhambra to Muslim visitors; the meat is halal, and they don’t serve alcohol. See you there!