I love shops that sell only one thing - the opposite of one-stop shopping! There are still lots of ultra-specialized stores in Madrid selling just gloves, knives or capes. Caramelos Paco sells sweets - almost exclusively hard-boiled sweets and lollipops to be specific, although they do carry some other candy, such as marshmallows or "clouds" as they are called in Spanish, and licorice. They have a huge range that includes sugar-free and gluten-free as well as all the usual flavours.
I love the way Spanish stores have window displays full of whatever product is for sale inside; I don't know why, but I find them incredibly appealing. Paco's display is spectacular, and leaves no doubt as to what they sell.
Caramelos Paco has been a part of La Latina for over 80 years now, and I hope this sweet traditional shop will continue to brighten up Calle Toledo for many years to come.
Find your way with 243 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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"CaixaForum Madrid" is a good alternative to the nearby, more touristy Prado and Reina Sofia. It's beautiful, cool and quite small if you have limited time
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"Casa Gonzalez" is a lovely little delicatessen in Madrid and a great place for some great wine, cheese & tostas! My favorite is the 'azul picón de hojas'.
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"Museo Geominero" Madrid is quite the hidden gem. Even locals don't know about it, and its collections of things unearthed is astonishing. It's also free!
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"El Winnie", as it has been baptised by locals (guess why!), is one of Madrid's most authentic Chinese restaurants. My favourite dish? The cold noodles...
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"Fundación Juan March" in Madrid is one of those place I can't believe took me so long to discover. It's got interesting exhibitions and concerts...
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"Espacio Fundación Telefónica" is one of the places that make me happy to live in Madrid. Completed in 1929, it was Europe's first skyscraper...
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"La Violeta" Madrid is a bar with more than 25 varieties of vermouth from around Spain. Now that 'vermut' is cool again, don't miss the chance to visit!
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"Bar Casa Paco" in Madrid is a very popular restaurant for the classic tortilla (and another 32 varieties) and some of my favorite croquetas around...
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