I've written about the aperitivo more than once (I love it!), and the wonderful Casa Labra in the heart of Madrid is one of my very favourite aperitif spots. A leisurely lunch is a Spanish tradition, and you should start with a delicious little aperitivo to whet your appetite - Casa Labra is just the place.
This little tavern is located just off la Plaza del Sol and has remained almost unchanged since 1860. According to Wikipedia, it is famous for being the site for the foundation of the Spanish Socialist Worker's Party on May 2, 1879. Delicious food AND history!
Have a beer, wine, sherry or (my favourite) vermut de grifo, and a couple of their famous "croquetas de bacalao" (salt-cod croquettes) and a "tajada de bacalao" (a chunk of battered salt-cod). Nothing lasts forever but some places are worth fighting for, and Casa Labra is one of them, so don’t miss it!
Find your way with 266 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot? And love your city? Join your local team. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
The apartment block this cafe sits under is an ugly beauty and I love it, not least for the exuberant planters that are an integral part of the building.
by
Although it’s a Galician restaurant, they do an excellent paella mixta (chicken and seafood) and arroz negro, flavoured and coloured with squid ink.
by
I didn’t think Madrid was lacking anything but now I’ve found "Mazál Bagels and Café" I’m wondering how I survived without its bagels all these years!
by
What sets this bar apart is its exceptional handling of ingredients, creating dishes that sing with Andalusian flair—a nod to Manu's roots.
by
They have a wide selection of wines to suit all pockets, and you can also discover some weirder flavours if your tastes run to the unique...
by
"Mo de Movimiento" in Madrid offers a new take on the restaurant business - sustainable organic ingredients, recycled materials and second opportunities!
by
Sala Canal Isabel II in Madrid used to be a water tower: now it's an uber-cool gallery used for media exhibitions. I love it, and not just because...
by
VETA is the biggest contemporary art gallery in the city, so once you’ve had your fill of the Old Masters at the Prado, why not get off the beaten track?
by
Don’t worry about collecting and counting plates - there’s an “all you can eat” lunchtime menu, you can fill your boots for a very reasonable fixed price.
by
His favourite time seemed to be that magic hour when the sun is sinking low in the West and turns everything a golden pinky hue.
by
Each covered market has its own flavour; Chamberí I would say is high quality and traditional but also one that has adapted successfully to the times.
by
"Konnichiwa" is a Japanese street food restaurant in Madrid. Their specialty is the ramen with the egg, which they cook with a blowtorch at your table!
by
266 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 266 Insider Tips