This wonderfully traditional Madrid tapas bar is just behind the National Auditorium in the Prosperidad district. It’s off the tourist trail – but that’s good, right? All my best travel memories are of times when I escaped the eager hordes of foreign travellers and found a spot where I couldn’t hear my language being spoken.

If that rings true, you’re going to love this place! All the Spanish classics are to be found here. They’ll give you a decent tapa with your beer, wine or vermut – please don’t ask for tapas; you get what you’re given; they’re free after all! Olives, Russian salad, patatas bravas, crisps… have a few drinks if you want a variety!

The best way to eat in Spanish bars is with company – choose a few “raciones” and share everything. Boquerones fritos (fried fresh anchovies) and bravas (fried chunks of potatoes with a spicy sauce) are some classics.

Other things on offer include a great selection of seafood sold by the weight and tostas (large pieces of toasted bread) topped with cabrales cheese, tuna and roasted red peppers, tomatoes, grilled pork loin…

If you want to eat like a local, this is your place!