Don Panko Madrid
Madrid’s first katsu house
Andrea from Madrid
I was excited when Don Panko Katsu House arrived in the neighbourhood. It’s got the authentic look that only a real Japan-lover would be able to recreate. A little investigation confirmed my impression - the Spanish owner, David de la Torre, had fallen in love with katsu when he was working for Japanese restaurants in London, which was when he had the chance to visit Japan and hone his knowledge of this tasty curry, which is served with rice and crunchy panko-covered meat, seafood or veg.
Just recently this year, Don Panko appeared in the Time Out 50 Best Restaurants list, yet despite that accolade, it is just enough off the beaten track to make it still easy to get a stool in this cosy little eatery.
Other things of note on their small but perfectly formed menu are the selfish croquetas (you won’t want to share!) and their wonderful selection of Japanese gins, if you fancy a cheeky G & T; (there’s whisky too if that’s your preferred tipple).
And while you’re in the neighbourhood, why not drop into the Museo Geominero?
Madrid Spotter Andrea
About this spot
Our Madrid City Guide
Find your way with 266 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Madrid
Julián López
Handmade in Madrid, by you!
It’s a TARDIS-like Aladdin’s cave of colour and creativity for anyone, but also a great place to find some peculiarly Spanish items...
by
Andrea
Roberts
Casa de la Arquitectura
An ambitious proposal
Housed in Nuevos Ministerios, this museum has an ambitious aim - to raise awareness of how architecture impacts the quality of our lives.
by
Andrea
Roberts
CASA PEI+
Madrid’s first dumpling house
This little Korean place, has a exquisitely concise menu - 6 different dumplings, steamed or fried, plus a couple of specials and sides and that’s it.
by
Andrea
Roberts
Mauthausen Memorial
Republican Victims remembered
The largest piece represents the Liberty Gate; three large columns, inscribed with the names of all the deportees, are 'the trees of dreams.'
by
Andrea
Roberts
FMCMP
Spanish art in a brand new space
FMCMP in Madrid is a quiet, elegant space that still feels fresh. It is a fantastic museum and I can't think of a better place to spend an hour!
by
Andrea
Roberts
Slow Café
A standout coffee spot
It’s really cosy but airy at the same time - there’s room enough between the variety of seating arrangements for one not to feel boxed in.
by
Andrea
Roberts
Monument to Victims of Terrorism
Lest we forget
The monument, named “Recuerdo Vivo” (living memory) honours all 1429 victims of terrorism in Madrid and was installed in 2023.
by
Andrea
Roberts
Caravan Serai
Where cocktails become works of art
This hidden gem, located in the Malasaña neighborhood, is a testament to the art of mixology and offers an experience that transcends the ordinary.
by
Álvaro
Martínez Ponce
Vino y Compañía
Wine a bit – why not!
This fantastic wine shop, Vino y Compañía is the place to discover the wonderful variety and quality of wine on offer in Spain. Come with an open mind!
by
Andrea
Roberts
El Pato Mudo
Madrid's finest rice dishes
El Pato Mudo prides itself on its traditional Spanish fare, offering dishes that are both a feast for the eyes and a delight to the taste buds.
by
Álvaro
Martínez Ponce
Heading to Madrid?
266 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Madrid?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 266 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Bars
Our team loves Madrid
Get to know our other Spotters from Madrid
As featured on:
